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🇦🇺 Australia /Culture & Society

More action needed to protect female tradies from 'nasty sexism', experts say

From ABC Australia · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • A growing number of women in Queensland are entering traditionally male-dominated trades like butchery, with female apprenticeships tripling since 2020.
  • Experts note improved public messaging and role models are attracting women, but challenges remain in ensuring they complete their qualifications.
  • Concerns persist about serious sexual discrimination and harassment faced by women in trades, with a significant percentage reporting negative experiences.

Kirsten Drinkwater, a 19-year-old butcher's apprentice in regional Queensland, embodies a growing trend of women entering traditionally male-dominated trades. Inspired by her grandfather, she works in the same Eidsvold butcher shop, embracing a role that has seen a notable increase in female participation.

He really inspired me, he got me into it. He's very, very proud of me.

— Kirsten DrinkwaterExplaining her inspiration for entering the butchery trade.

Across Queensland, 35 women began butcher apprenticeships last year, an increase from the previous year. Data from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research reveals that the number of female apprentice butchers in the state has more than tripled since 2020. This shift is occurring across various trades, including plumbing, electrical work, and refrigeration, even as traditionally female roles like hairdressing see a decline in new apprenticeships.

I just think it's becoming more accessible for us. There's a lot less fear of being discriminated against … I can just feel it, something is happening and the world's just becoming a little bit more inclusive.

— Kirsten DrinkwaterDescribing the changing cultural attitudes towards women in trades.

Researchers like Sarojni Choy from Griffith University acknowledge the positive shift, attributing it to better public messaging and more visible role models. However, a significant challenge remains: ensuring these women complete their training. Statistics show a concerning completion rate, with many apprentices not finishing their qualifications. Rae Cooper from the University of Sydney highlights another critical issue: the prevalence of sexual discrimination and harassment. Her research indicates that a substantial percentage of women in automotive trades have endured negative experiences, underscoring the need for greater action to protect female tradies and foster more inclusive work environments.

I think we are seeing a real, if modest, shift towards some of the non-traditional occupations for women. The challenge now is to convert that interest into sustained participation and completion.

— Rae CooperCommenting on the trend of women entering male-dominated fields and the need for continued support.
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Originally published by ABC Australia. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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