A new free and online training course launched by NAWIC is designed to give men the tools to reinforce a respectful work culture for women in construction
The National Association of Women in Construction Australia (NAWIC) has officially launched the Male Allies Training Course, as part of its Allyship in Action: Transforming Culture to Attract and Retain Women project.
NAWIC’s three-year Allyship in Action project is designed to specifically engage men to take practical action to improve training and job opportunities for women in traditionally-male dominated industries, including construction.
It has received $5 million in funding from the Australian government’s Building Women’s Careers Program and is being delivered with sector partners including ADCO Constructions, CPB Contractors and the Holmesglen Institute.
Unlike generic diversity training, NAWIC says the free, online Male Allies Training Course uses realistic site-based and office-based scenarios, focuses on practical everyday behaviours, builds confidence to intervene and call out disrespect, and reinforces that respectful culture is everyone’s responsibility.
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It is available nationally and open to men working across the construction and built environment, with individuals and organisations able to register online to take part.
“The Male Allies Training Course gives men practical, evidence-based tools to handle real workplace situations with confidence, helping them to speak up early, respond to inappropriate behaviour and set the standard,” NAWIC CEO Cathryn Greville says.
“When we prioritise a culture of fairness, inclusion and respect, we create an environment where everyone feels valued and able to succeed.
“This is critical to attract more women into the industry, retain them, and foster a strong pipeline of future leaders. We have billions of dollars of construction projects to deliver and we have an untapped pool of women available to help build it.”
According to NAWIC, women make up approximately just 13 per cent of Australia’s building and construction workforce, with only about 3 per cent working on the tools.
NAWIC says research consistently shows men who participate in structured allyship programs are more likely to challenge bias, intervene constructively and support women’s advancement, contributing to safer, more inclusive and higher-performing teams.
Individuals can register for the free Male Allies Training Course at nawic.com.au/Site/Events/Courses-and-Education/MAP.aspx