The CarpentHer Crew

This initiative prioritises inclusive workplace cultures by opening access to construction companies actively seeking to employ female apprentice / qualified carpenters, implementing peer-to-peer mentorship programs, diversity & mental health training, and active support networks.

Through targeted outreach programs and partnerships with industry stakeholders, the initiative aims to increase the number of women entering and staying in the construction industry. By highlighting carpentry as a viable career option for women and providing resources for skill development and career advancement, the project addresses barriers to entry and supports long-term retention.

We recognise the importance of women in leadership roles for both attracting more women to the industry and for creating more diverse and sustainable businesses. As such, this initiative engages industry leaders in mentorship programs and in practical programs on step-by-step guidance on career progression (e.g. by getting one’s builder’s licence, lead & succeed workshops).

At Carpentry Australia we focus on supporting carpenters through their full career lifecycle, this initiative targets the unique challenges faced by women entering and progressing in the industry.

Our goal is to leverage technology, partnerships and a holistic approach to break down some of the most basic barriers women face on entering the industry, utilising our extensive network as a recognised industry body.

Studies show that employers find formal recruitment a hassle. (Particularly) SMEs lack HR infrastructure and through our simplified process we enable these businesses to recruit women into carpentry, whilst ensuring they are ready to take women onto site.

By recognising the multifaceted challenges faced by women in the industry, we are looking to grow female representation, while fostering inclusive workplaces across NSW.

Our target cohort fit into three distinct categories, with the following goals (which support IIP objectives):

Females seeking a carpentry apprenticeship. Making carpentry apprenticeships accessible to women, with companies that have been vetted, and are committed to diversity, inclusion and psychologically safe workplaces. By opening up a platform of pre-vetted organisations, we can support careers councillors (including for Work-Integrated Learning), AASNs, and women to take on these exciting opportunities.
Females in an apprenticeship. Through buddy-mentorship with qualified female carpenters, support network assessment, support on financial, physical and mental health, and support on TAFE/schoolwork tutoring, we aim to increase the completion rate of women undertaking a carpentry apprenticeship – whatever their age.
Female Carpenters in Leadership positions. Through a combination of networking, training and step-by-step webinars, we will demonstrate and support opportunities for women to pursue leadership roles and certifications. This includes helping more women get their Builders’ License’s, and into site supervisor positions.

The Employer of Choice tag on the Carpentry Australia portal signifies that an employer is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and discrimination free workplace.

To be listed as an Employer of Choice, businesses must:
✅ Undergo training in diversity and equality
✅ Fulfill Carpentry Australia’s screening requirements

This designation assures job seekers that the employer meets industry standards for fairness, inclusivity, and worker well-being, reinforcing our vision to build a better Australia by supporting and promoting ethical workplaces.

To register as an employer of choice and have one of our team members get in touch, fill out the form via the link below:

https://form.jotform.com/Quinn_Nathan/employer-of-choice

For more information check out:

https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/women-construction-industry-innovation-program-iip-year-1

https://www.nsw.gov.au/employment/women-construction