Recognising the imbalance
The construction industry grapples with a glaring and persistent gender imbalance, a challenge far beyond the scarcity of skilled labour. It’s a sector characterised by a significant underrepresentation of women, a stagnant phenomenon despite time.
Gender disparity statistics
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics starkly illustrates this disparity, revealing that a mere 14% of the workforce comprises women within the construction sector. However, this gender representation plummets significantly when considering on-site roles, with a staggeringly low figure of only 2%—a statistic that has remained virtually unchanged over a decade.
Industry's response to skill shortages
In response to these critical skill shortages, the industry has relied on pushing its workforce to the limits. Workers have been compelled to labour harder and faster to meet project demands. The consequence? Excessive work hours, stress, burnout, job dissatisfaction, and compromised mental health. This strain has created an unattractive work environment within the sector.
Consequences of the gender imbalance
Workers in the industry have been pushed to their limits, resulting in prolonged and often excessive work hours, heightened stress levels, widespread burnout, job dissatisfaction, and a concerning decline in mental health. This harsh reality has rendered the construction industry an unattractive and unfavourable workplace environment for many potential employees, further perpetuating the gender imbalance.
Standing at a crossroads
The industry finds itself at a pivotal juncture, grappling with the critical need to bridge the skills gap and the urgent imperative to address the inherent gender imbalance. It’s a complex challenge that demands multifaceted solutions and concerted efforts to reshape the industry’s culture and practices to foster a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
The value of gender diversity
But why should gender diversity drive better outcomes?
Morality and equity
Morally, it’s the right path—equity and inclusion should be standard practices. Yet, the advantages of enhancing gender diversity, particularly within construction, are numerous and rewarding.
Innovation and creativity
Diversity fosters a flow of varied ideas, fresh perspectives, and creativity, fueling positive change and innovation—a crucial factor for an industry grappling with stagnant productivity.
Economic advantages
Economically, there are significant gains in diversification. According to the World Economic Forum, companies with more diverse management teams have reported a 19% increase in revenue. Improving gender pay equity could potentially elevate the global economy by 26%.
Cultural and workforce benefits
Moreover, augmenting diversity can usher in significant cultural shifts that benefit everyone. Notably, it could expand the pool of talent, alleviating the pressure caused by the skills shortage.
Policy and strategy development
The methods to boost workforce diversity are clearly outlined by organisations like the Workplace Gender Equality Agency. Companies must craft inclusive policies and strategies, addressing critical issues like flexible work arrangements and embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion KPIs.
Innovative work practices
Adopting innovative working practices can also attract and retain a more diverse workforce. For instance, transitioning to modern construction methods, like off-site manufacturing, can ease physical demands and offer flexible project delivery hours.
Leadership's influence
These are some pivotal methods to improve gender diversity in construction. However, solid leadership is critical in enabling this diversity to thrive within the industry.
Useful links
Attracting Female Talent
Inclusive and Rigorous Interview and Selection Strategies
Strategies for Retaining Women in Non-Traditional Roles
Strategies for Women’s Development in Non-Traditional Roles