The NSW Building Commission has revealed many women feel the need to work harder than men to receive recognition according to its report.
The report was based on 1,792 responses, while 36 one-on-one interviews and nine focus groups were held.
“We set out to investigate the culture of the construction industry and the barriers that women face in entering, working and staying in the industry,” Building Commission NSW Policy and Programs Executive Director Vanessa Carmody-Smith said.
“By increasing women’s participation, we can assist with the critical skills shortages, collectively enhance our industry’s competitiveness, and bring unique perspectives and ideas into the industry, as well as building resilience.
“We know that inclusion of women in the construction industry can improve effective communication, stakeholder relationships, teamwork, problem-solving, and reduce bullying.
“I urge everyone in our industry to read our report. We encourage industry stakeholders to consider these findings and actionable recommendations.”
The report revealed 71 per cent of women employed in small-to-medium businesses have experienced discrimination, with one in two women experiencing sexual harassment.
According to the report, a lack of exposure to construction-related fields and the absence of marketing roles to woman are key to why they don’t consider the industry.
“By improving the workplace for all genders, it will encourage more women to join the industry and help to address the projected shortfall of 100,000 skilled construction workers,” NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler said.
“The participation and retention of women across NSW in the construction industry will deliver the benefits of a more diverse and inclusive industry which increases innovation, improves productivity, and leads to stronger economic performance.”
The report can be viewed here at the NSW Building Commission website.
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