Employers and community members across Brimbank are invited to have their say on how the state government can boost women’s participation and advancement in manufacturing and energy industries.
Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins welcomed the release of a discussion paper on November 2, which marks a crucial part of the government’s response to the inquiry into economic equity for Victorian women.
“I look forward to hearing from the manufacturing and energy sectors about how we can support more women to carve successful careers in these industries,” Ms Hutchins said.
“Increasing women’s participation in male-dominated industries, especially in trade-based and leadership roles, will help women fully contribute to our state’s economy, towards a more equal state.
“We’re supporting these industries to not only address barriers, attract and retain more women employees, but also provide opportunities for women to thrive.”
The discussion paper outlines some of the key reasons why women continue to be underrepresented in male-dominated industries and identifies how industry-specific initiatives need to address this.
The discussion paper seeks views on how workplaces can increase support and create safe work environments for women from diverse backgrounds, while recognising some groups of women face additional barriers.
It builds on previous industry consultation and includes targeted questions on key aspects of the strategies such as the proposed scope, vision, outcomes and priority action areas.
It also follows last week’s announcement of $840,000 to support four organisations to help women advance to more senior positions, promote respectful culture at work and encourage students to take up a career in energy or manufacturing.
The programs are delivered by the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union, the National Association of Women in Operations, Victorian Trades Hall Council and Australian Women in Solar Energy forms.
The strategies aim to attract, recruit and retain women, while removing barriers in these historically male-dominated workforces.
Written submissions to the discussion paper are due in for submission by Thursday, November 30.
Details: engage.vic.gov.au/women-energy-manufacturing-strategies
