Forestry Australia Invites Expressions of Interest for Mentoring Program for Women in Forestry
MEDIA RELEASE
Thursday 5 June 2025
Forestry Australia, in partnership with ForestWorks, is excited to announce the launch of the Mentoring Program for Women in the Industry.
CEO Jacquie Martin said the program is a transformative nine-month pilot initiative designed to empower women in the forest and forest products sectors.
"We are now calling for expressions of interest from both mentors and mentees to join this groundbreaking program, funded by ForestWorks through the Australian Government's Forestry Workforce Training Program (FWTP)," Ms Martin said.
"Mentoring fosters' personal and professional growth by building trust-based relationships that support goal setting, confidence, and leadership readiness," Ms Martin said.
"For women in male-dominated industries like forestry, mentoring provides critical support to overcome systemic barriers, access career opportunities, and build a strong, inclusive community that champions growth and connection."
The program will connect 25 mentor-mentee pairs, carefully matched based on shared interests, goals, and communication styles.
Participants will engage in monthly one-on-one sessions (virtual or in-person), quarterly webinars, and peer support groups, exploring key themes such as:
- Defining your career path
- Establishing goals
- Time management for life
- Confidence, self-advocacy, and self-belief
- Work-life integration and wellbeing
- Building networks and connections
- Strategic influence and leadership
Mentors will receive training on effective, inclusive mentoring practices, while mentees are encouraged to invest approximately one hour per month for meetings, plus six hours for preparation, goal setting, and development activities.
The program is designed to boost confidence, foster professional growth, and support women in navigating both career and personal commitments.
"This initiative is about creating lasting change," Ms Martin said.
"Participants will connect with role models, strengthen their leadership and career pathways, and build peer networks that endure beyond the program.
"We're committed to fostering a supportive community that empowers women to thrive in the forestry industry."
Following the pilot, Forestry Australia will provide ForestWorks with the program's framework, resources, learnings, and webinars, ensuring long-term accessibility and impact for the broader industry.
Who Can Apply?
Mentees: The program is open to women working in the forest and forest product industries who are seeking support to grow their careers, develop leadership skills, and build strong professional networks.
Mentors: We welcome expressions of interest from women, men and non-binary individuals who are committed allies of women in the industry. Mentors will be selected based on their experience, values, and willingness to support and uplift the next generation of women leaders in forestry.
How to Get Involved
Forestry Australia invites women in the forest and forest products industries to express interest as mentors or mentees. To apply or learn more, click HERE
