The Australian Institute of Architects is calling on the incoming federal government to address the lack of gender diversity and equity within the construction industry.
Construction is the most male-dominated industry, 87 percent of the workforce are male. The industry also has a gender pay gap of 24 percent for full time workers and 30.6 percent for part-time or casual workers, well above the national average of 19.7 percent and 22.8 percent respectively, according to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency.
The Institute wants the government to set specific inclusion targets for gender equity.
“Diversity in the construction industry needs to improve to meet community standards,”
Earlier in 2022, the Institute welcomed a Victorian government policy aimed at building women’s participation in the construction industry, and called on other states and territories to bring in similar plans.
“This type of approach, with specific quotas and plans, is needed nationwide to overturn the long-standing culture of our industry,” Giannone said.
The Institute added that a national strategy should also set clear and reportable targets for the recruitment and retention of women in the workforce.
“We know women leave architecture and associated professions at a higher rate than men,” Giannone said. “We need to address this. Having a national strategy to overcome obstacles and address challenges, as well as set goals, is a good place to start the journey to an inclusive future.”
In addition, the Institute called for superannuation to be paid of parental leave entitlements and for the government to fully implement the Respect@Work report into the National Inquiry into Sexual Harassment in Australian Workplaces.
