New South Wales will pilot an Australian-first Culture Standard at construction sites to improve facilities, working conditions, and boost the number of women in the industry.
The program is led by the Construction Industry Culture Taskforce – a collaboration between the New South Wales and Victorian governments, the Australian Constructors Association (ACA), as well as industry leaders.
Trials at the Mulgoa Road upgrade stage 1 and new Wentworth Point High School construction sites will introduce practices to address cultural issues that can contribute to poor mental health, lack of industry diversity, and high rates of family breakdown.
The pilots will include measures such as ensuring no offensive material is displayed on site; providing appropriate amenities, such as women’s toilets, sanitary bins, and safe changerooms; identifying and reducing gender pay gaps; providing mental health first aiders on site; and setting clear targets for the appointment of women.
Natalie Ward, Minister for Metropolitan Roads, said: “The sad reality is that women on construction sites can be subject to sexist slurs, offensive graffiti and second-rate amenities that don’t accommodate their needs, including a lack of sanitary bins or private spaces.
“We also know another key barrier is construction work is typically a six day, 50-plus-hour a week job, which is why this program will seek to improve flexible working conditions for women who are juggling family commitments.”
Rob Stokes, Minister for Infrastructure, said the pilot would focus on improving wellbeing and work-life balance, boosting construction efficiency and productivity without impacting project timeframes.
“Construction sites will be happier, healthier and more productive places to work when there is better work-life balance and diversity, and more access to wellbeing and mental health support,” he said.
“The industry has one of the worst gender pay gaps in the country at around 30 per cent, so we’re going to trial the publication of that data so we can work towards women being fairly paid for their equal contribution.”
Outcomes of the pilot will bolster research and evidence into how to best generate cultural change across the construction sector.
To read the draft Culture Standard, visit: cultureinconstruction.com.au
Related stories:
- Roads Review: Diversity in roads and infrastructure
- Under construction: Building new industry standards
- Infrastructure Australia’s reform plan calls for collaboration, coordination and culture
.png){kind=small}
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
