The Australian Institute of Architects is calling for specific inclusion targets to increase gender equity in the construction industry.
The national peak body for architects said the incoming Australian Government should prioritise gender diversity and inequality in the building industry, with a strategic approach to reduce the participation and pay gap.
The Institute’s National President Tony Giannone said construction was the most male-dominated industry, with the second-worst gender pay gap.
“Diversity in the construction industry needs to improve to meet community standards,” he said.
“The Institute notes the efforts to drive change such as the Victorian Government’s Building Equality Policy. This type of approach, with specific quotas and plans, is needed nationwide to overturn the long-standing culture of our industry.”
The Institute’s Federal Election Policy Statement A Time For Action, calls for the Australian Government to fully implement the Respect@Work report into the National Inquiry into Sexual Harassment in Australian Workplaces.
Superannuation should also be paid on government paid parental leave entitlements, the Institute said.
A national Building and Design Equality Policy with clear reportable targets would help recruitment and retention of women to the workforce.
“We know women leave architecture and associated professions at a higher rate than men,” he said.
“We need to address this. Having a national strategy to overcome obstacles and address challenges, as well as set goals, is a good place to start the journey to an inclusive future.”
The Workplace Gender Equality Agency reports one in four workers in construction are women (25.9 per cent), compared to one in two in all industries (51 per cent). The gender pay gap is 24 per cent for full-time workers and 30.6 per cent for those working part-time or casual.
For media enquiries contact:
Rosanne Barrett on behalf of the Australian Institute of Architects
M. +61 0425 420 024 | hello@barrettcomms.com.au
