The Albanese Government is backing a partnership of 12 organisations in the Riverina Murray region with $1 million to support more women to work in in-demand areas, with the launch of the Rise and Build: Empowering Women's Careers project in Wagga Wagga today.
Up to 250 women will be trained in industries with high demand for skilled workers, including energy, construction and manufacturing.
The project is backed by the Albanese Government's $60 million Building Women's Careers (BWC) program, which works to break down barriers to women's participation in male-dominated industries.
Currently, women make up only six per cent of energy trade apprentices in training.
Women's representation in the energy workforce, particularly in energy-related apprenticeships, remains the lowest across all industries, trailing behind traditionally male-dominated sectors such as mining, transport and logistics, and building and construction.
The Women's Economic Equality Taskforce found that removing barriers to full participation in the workforce could unlock $128 billion for the Australian economy. Projects like Rise and Build will play an important role in unleashing that potential while also helping local industries with more skilled workers.
Led by Griffith Skills Training Centre, the project partners with 12 organisations, including Workfront, Regional Development Australia, John Holland Group, and CPB Contractors.
Co-designed with input from participants, industry leaders and community stakeholders, the partnership will combine tailored training, pre-employment and Certificate II programs, workforce development, and recruitment solutions to improve diversity and deliver long-term opportunities for women in the Riverina Murray region.
The BWC Program is part of the Albanese Government's Future Made in Australia initiative, which is addressing barriers for women entering, remaining and advancing in traditionally male-dominated industries.
