The Australian Constructors Association (ACA), backed by NSW government funding, is challenging gender stereotypes in construction through its It’s Possible campaign.
A recent site tour at the $658 million Sydney Children’s Hospital Stage 1 and Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre project in Randwick saw 30 women gain firsthand exposure to the industry, meeting professionals and exploring career pathways.
Hosted by principal contractor John Holland, the tour highlighted the sector’s evolving inclusivity.
Participants observed diverse roles, from project management to engineering, and engaged with leaders like Project Director Lizzie Cox and site engineer Harriett Carroll, who are driving cultural change on-site.
“These tours break down outdated stereotypes and show women they belong here,” said Jayne Whitney, John Holland’s Chief Strategy Officer.
“The enthusiasm we’re seeing signals a shift — women are ready to embrace construction careers.”
The initiative aligns with the NSW government’s Women in Construction-focused Infrastructure Skills Legacy Program (ISLP), which trialed increased gender targets across eight Health Infrastructure projects.
At the Sydney Children’s Hospital redevelopment, women now fill nearly 9 per cent of non-traditional roles, surpassing the 7 per cent trial target.
Leisa Rathborne, Acting CEO of Health Infrastructure NSW, emphasised the campaign’s dual impact, stating: “We’re not just building infrastructure — we’re creating purposeful careers. Initiatives like It’s Possible showcase how women can shape communities through construction.”
ACA CEO Jon Davies noted growing interest in the tours, which aim to address the industry’s gender imbalance (12 per cent female workforce nationally, with under 2 per cent in on-site roles).
“Diversity drives innovation and improves workplace culture,” said Lizzie Cox, citing her research on inclusive worksites.
With further tours planned across NSW, women are encouraged to register at www.itspossible.net.au.
The campaign, funded by the NSW government’s $20.2 million Women in Construction Program, underscores a commitment to building a workforce that reflects the communities it serves.
The Sydney Children’s Hospital project is delivered by Health Infrastructure in partnership with John Holland, the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Children’s Cancer Institute, and UNSW Sydney.
