An evolving industry
The manufacturing industry is critical to Victoria's economy. However, historically it been male dominated. Women currently make up only one-third of the Victorian manufacturing workforce.
Some progress has been made in recent years to increase the number of women in manufacturing and other majority-men sectors. However, there is still more work to do.
Career opportunities
Victorian manufacturing continues to grow, but skills shortages are being reported across the sector. This indicates that there is an opportunity for exciting, varied and secure roles for people of all genders and identities across the entire industry, including in:
- mechanical engineering
- robotics
- software engineering
- welding
- design and packaging
- digital capability
- leadership and management.
Making it equal
With a focus on increasing women’s participation in the manufacturing industry, the Office for Women developed ‘Making it equal: Victoria’s women in manufacturing strategy’ which aims to support, upskill and mentor women and girls at all stages of their careers.
To guide the focus of the strategy, the Office for Women spoke with key industry associations, employers, unions and individuals about ways to attract, recruit, retain and support women to thrive in Victoria’s manufacturing workforce.
Lived experience
Curious about what it's like to work in manufacturing? Hear from five women who are thriving in the industry and discover if manufacturing could be your next move.
Training, upskilling and equity
‘Making it equal' also aims to support businesses, unions, education and training providers to create an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.
Mentorship
Connecting young women and girls with role models, mentors, networks and industry experiences can also boost awareness and dispel gender stereotypes about manufacturing jobs.
Learn about the National Association of Women in Operations (NAWO) Mentoring Program.
Building a diverse industry
We’re building a future where diverse women can lead, create, and innovate. Women from all backgrounds are encouraged to consider a career in manufacturing, including women with disability, multicultural women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women in rural areas, older women, and LGBTIQA+ women.
View some photos of women working in manufacturing in Victoria.
Video transcript
Video transcript
Video transcript
Video transcript
Video transcript
Video transcript
Video transcript
Video transcript
Learn more
The strength of 'Making it equal' relies on continued commitment across the industry. We’re calling on everyone—manufacturers, unions, educators, and gender equality advocates—to help more women confidently step into and grow in this exciting space.
To learn more about the strategy and experiences of women working in manufacturing in Victoria, visit Making it equal: Victoria's women in manufacturing strategy.
