The face of Australia’s workforce is shifting. Across construction, manufacturing, logistics, and renewables, more women are stepping confidently into trades. At Fast Labour Hire, we’re proud to be part of this change. Women in trades are shaping a more inclusive, balanced workforce where skills and mindset matter more than stereotypes.
We help break down barriers and connect female workers with job opportunities that are meaningful, well-paid, and in demand. If you’re wondering what “women in trades” actually involves, which jobs are a good fit, and how to take the first step into a trade career, this guide will walk you through it.
What is the meaning of women in trades?
Women in trades refers to female workers employed in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as construction, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, civil works, warehousing, and machine operation. These roles often involve physical labour, technical knowledge, and safety qualifications.
But more importantly, women in trades represent a movement. It’s about more women accessing rewarding careers in high-demand industries. It’s about balance on site, fresh perspectives, and stronger teams.
At Fast Labour Hire, we work with women across Australia who are making their mark in roles like:
- General labour and trade assistant positions
- Carpenters, electricians, and mechanical fitters
- High-risk licensed work such as EWP, dogging, and confined space
- Forklift operation and warehousing
- Plant and machine operators in construction and renewables
- Event setup, logistics, and maintenance crews
Whether you’re starting from scratch or coming in with years of experience, there’s space for you in this workforce.
What is the best trade for a woman?
There’s no single answer to this question. The best trade is the one that fits you, your goals, your lifestyle, and your strengths. What matters is that the opportunity is there, and it’s growing fast.
Here are some trades women are excelling in, supported by real demand from employers:
Carpentry and joinery
Great for creative, practical minds. There’s plenty of variety and project diversity, from residential builds to commercial fit-outs.
Electrical work
A highly technical trade that pays well and has long-term job security. Female sparkies are increasingly in demand across urban and regional areas.
Plumbing
A skilled role with excellent earning potential. It requires training and licensing but opens doors to independent work and contract opportunities.
Forklift and warehousing
If you’re detail-oriented and thrive in fast-paced environments, this space is a strong fit. There’s ongoing demand in logistics, retail, and industrial supply chains.
Solar and renewables
Australia’s green energy sector is booming. Women in trades are being welcomed into roles involving installation, maintenance, and electrical work on solar farms and energy storage projects.
TA and general labour
These are often stepping stones. You don’t need a licence to start as a trade assistant or labourer. It’s a great way to build experience, confidence, and could be a great pathway to further opportunities.
Want more insight into the trades we place? Get in touch with us to know more.
Is there demand for women in construction?
Yes. And not just in construction. The demand for women in trades is growing across the board, from job sites to warehouses, production floors, and renewable energy projects.
Across the sectors we work in, including construction, manufacturing, warehousing, and renewables, employers are facing a consistent challenge: there aren’t enough skilled workers to meet growing project demand. That’s why more companies are turning to women to fill the gap – not as a token gesture, but because diverse teams deliver better results.
Here’s what the numbers say:
Women in construction statistics in Australia
- Women make up 14% of the total construction workforce
- Just 2% of on-site roles are held by women
- Only 1% are in trades or technician positions
- 16.2% of professional and management roles are held by women
- Senior women are three times more likely to leave the industry than men
The industry is shifting. More clients are asking for female labourers, operators, and skilled tradies, and pushing for safer, more inclusive worksites.
Source: 8 Women In Construction Statistic In Australia: Updated In 2024
Women in manufacturing statistics in Australia
- Women make up ~30% of Australia’s manufacturing workforce
- Women are also significantly under-represented in trade and technical roles, which remain male-dominated
- The majority of women are employed in administrative and support positions, not frontline production
Automation, reshoring and local production are increasing demand for skilled, hands-on workers. This shift creates real opportunity to lift female participation in technical and trade roles
Sources:
Jobs and Skills Australia Manufacturing Industry Profile
Australian Bureau of Statistics Labour Force Data
Workplace Gender Equality Agency Gender Segregation
Women in warehousing statistics in Australia
- Sector-specific stats are limited, but the trend is similar:
- Underrepresentation in forklift operation, logistics, and dispatch
- Fewer women in shift-based or physically demanding roles
- The gender pay gap continues to impact opportunity, with women earning about 78 cents for every dollar earned by men
As workplaces improve safety, training, and culture, more women are stepping into high-demand warehousing roles with strong career potential.
Source: WGEA Transport, Postal and Warehousing Industry Snapshot
Women in renewables statistics in Australia
- Women make up 39% of Australia’s clean energy workforce
- The industry is actively aiming for 50/50 gender parity
- Employers in solar, wind, and energy storage are pushing for more diverse project teams
It’s one of the fastest-growing sectors and one of the most inclusive.
Source: Clean Energy Council – Empowering Everyone
Where Fast Labour Hire fits in
At Fast Labour Hire, we’re helping drive this shift. We’re placing women into:
- On-site labour and construction roles
- Renewable energy installations
- Warehouse logistics and forklift roles
- Manufacturing production and operations
We don’t just talk about equality. We recruit for it. We back employers who build inclusive teams and support women who want to get the job done right.
Our team is actively placing women across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Geelong, and Gold Coast in roles that matter. If you’re ready to work, we’re ready to connect you.
The demand is real. The skills are valued. And we’re ready when you are.
How to get started in a trade as a woman
Here’s how to move from thinking about it to working on site.
1. Find your focus
Do some research. Are you interested in building, mechanics, electrical work, or logistics? Do you want to work indoors or outdoors? With tools or machines? Think about what motivates you.
2. Get the right tickets
Most roles require a White Card for site safety. Some may also need a forklift licence, EWP ticket, or Working at Heights training. We can guide you based on the roles you’re targeting.
3. Register with the right recruiter
A people-first agency like Fast Labour Hire will take the time to understand your background, goals, and availability. We’ll match you to projects that suit, with proper onboarding and safety briefings.
You can register as a candidate with us online in minutes.
4. Show up and ask questions
You don’t need to know everything from day one. Bring a good attitude, ask for help when needed, and stay open to learning. You’ll gain skills quickly on site.
We also recommend talking to other women in trades through online communities or local training programs to get insights, support, and real-world advice.
We’re hiring: Female tradies wanted now
We’re actively looking for women who want to work in trades. Whether you’re new to the industry or already qualified, Fast Labour Hire can connect you with projects that need your skills.
We’re also working closely with employers who want to diversify their teams. If you’re looking to fill roles with reliable, skilled female workers, get in touch and we’ll make it happen.
Women in trades aren’t just needed. They’re essential. If you’re ready to give it a go, we’re ready to back you.
Frequently asked questions
What does “women in trades” mean?
It refers to women working in skilled roles like construction, carpentry, plumbing, warehousing, and logistics. It’s about giving women equal access to jobs that offer strong career paths, good pay, and room to grow.
Can any woman succeed in a trade?
Absolutely. You don’t need to be the strongest person on site. Trades value skills like communication, precision, reliability, and teamwork. With the right tickets and training, women thrive in these roles every day.
How many women are currently working in construction or trade roles?
While still a minority, more women are joining the trades every year. Progress is happening through education, policy change, and the support of employers like Fast Labour Hire who prioritise inclusion and talent over tradition. For example, this feature highlights women leading the way in clean energy, showing how female tradies are reshaping Australia’s future in renewables.
What barriers do women face when entering trades, and how can they be overcome?
Common challenges include lack of training access, gear that doesn’t fit, and occasional bias. These are being tackled through better recruitment, tailored apprenticeships, respectful site culture, and companies like Fast Labour Hire creating pathways for women to thrive.
Keen to get on the tools? Contact us today and join the growing crew of women in trades.
