The Victorian Government is proud to launch Making it equal: Victoria’s women in manufacturing strategy. It aims to encourage more women and girls to pursue a career in manufacturing, while supporting employers, unions and peak bodies to create inclusive and accessible working environments for everyone.
Victoria’s manufacturing industry has historically been male dominated. However, today there is a diverse range of roles and opportunities for people of all genders and identities.
Taking opportunities to build a more diverse workforce will give Victorian manufacturing the edge it needs to be innovative, internationally competitive, and resilient to skills shortages.
Making it equal highlights key opportunities for industry to increase women’s participation and equity in the sector, along with practical tools and resources for manufacturers of all sizes.
This strategy was developed in response to the Victorian Government’s Inquiry into economic equity for Victorian women (released in 2022), which highlighted the importance of supporting women’s participation and equity in male-dominated sectors.
Making it equal was also developed in consultation with industry stakeholders, including industry associations, unions, employers and gender equality organisations, to address the underrepresentation of women in Victoria’s manufacturing sector and respond to skills shortages.
Outdated stereotypes about who belongs in certain professions can prevent some women and girls from pursuing a career in a male-dominated sector, such as manufacturing. These ideas are damaging and wrong – gender should never be a barrier to employment.
This strategy can support employers uphold their responsibility to ensure gender is not a barrier to employment, and create workplaces that are safe and supportive for everyone to participate and advance in.
Women from all backgrounds are encouraged to consider a career in manufacturing, including women with disability, multicultural women, older women, and women from LGBTIQA+ communities.
The strength of Making it equal relies on continued commitment across the industry – everyone has a role to play, and everyone benefits from gender equality.
To learn more about the strategy and experiences of women working in manufacturing, visit Women in manufacturing website.