The Australian Constructors Association (ACA) welcomes today’s release of employer gender pay gaps by the Workplace Gender and Equality Agency (WGEA).

ACA President Annabel Crookes said the publishing of gender pay and leadership data is important for improving diversity in the construction industry.

“Gender diversity is still a challenge for the construction sector. The gender imbalance is one of the toughest problems we have to solve, because it gives rise to so many other cultural issues which are blockers for improving diversity for all,” said Ms Crookes.

“The urgent need for change, starting at the top, prompted ACA to take proactive measures five years ago, as the Board amended its rules to encourage every member to appoint at least one female director. This move aimed to instil leadership discussions with diverse perspectives resulting in tangible improvements within the industry.”

Recognising more is needed to address the hurdles that prevent women from joining and also progressing in construction, last year all ACA members pledged to transform the culture of the industry within the next five years.

“As part of the pledge, at least 75 per cent of ACA members will attain the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) Employer of Choice citation by 2028,” said Ms Crookes.

“The WGEA citation will help the industry close gender pay gaps faster and shift the industry to one that provides opportunities for all regardless of their gender.”

Leading by example, Laing O’Rourke, John Holland and Clough have already achieved the WGEA citation, signalling progress in the industry.

ACA CEO Jon Davies said the construction industry’s issues won’t be resolved quickly but the industry is committed to working collaboratively to change.

“ACA is a founding member of the Construction Industry Culture Taskforce, a partnership ACA holds with the governments of NSW and Victoria, and we are working towards a national culture standard for diversity, work-life balance and worker wellbeing,” said Mr Davies.

“Under ‘Diversity,’ the Culture Standard will seek to make workplaces more inclusive and encourage diversity, initially by setting targets to increase the representation of women, address gender pay gaps and create a more inclusive working environment for all workers.”

The ACA thanks WGEA for engaging with our members. ACA remains committed to working with stakeholders to improve gender equality within the construction industry.