Despite advancements in workforce diversity, women's representation in traditionally male-dominated trades remains low. Training Services NSW and the NSW Department of Customer Service’s Behavioural Insights Unit have partnered to develop a comprehensive set of evidence-based interventions to tackle this underrepresentation.

Trades where women make up less than 25% of the workforce are known as non-traditional trades. In Australian industries with major skills shortages, such as construction, electrotechnology and automotive, women make up only 2% of qualified trade workers. Women play a vital role in addressing skill shortages in key NSW industries and these resources are designed to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces for women working in trades.

In April 2024, Department of Education Deputy Secretary of Education and Skills Reform (ESR) Chloe Read formally launched the four resources, aimed at empowering women to pursue careers in non-traditional trades and ensuring their long-term success, to an audience of government agencies and providers.

“We want to reduce the social, cultural and emotional barriers that prevent women entering into and staying in trade-related employment,” Ms Read said.

The research findings emphasised the role of early engagement, stressing that parents and educators play pivotal roles in encouraging young women to explore diverse career paths.

The Trade Pathways for Women resources encompass a range of behavioural interventions:

• Communications Guide: Equipping stakeholders with evidence-based communication strategies to effectively engage women and inspire them to consider careers in non-traditional trades.
• Life Phases: Women in Trades: Offering tailored support and resources to assist women at different stages of their careers in non-traditional trades, ensuring they have the tools to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
• Employer’s Toolkit: Providing employers with practical guidance on attracting, recruiting and retaining women in trades, fostering inclusive workplaces where all individuals can thrive.
• Women in Trades Promising Practice Review: Identifying best practices and innovative approaches for overcoming barriers to women's participation in trades, facilitating a more supportive and encouraging environment.

More information about trade pathways for women can be found here.