Key Takeaways
- White Card Is Your First Step: Mandatory for any on-site construction role and the gateway to better pay and long-term job security.
- Record Female Participation: Women now make up 15.5% of the construction workforce in 2025, with growing representation in hands‑on roles.
- Diverse Entry Points: From labouring and traffic control to plant operation and site supervision, multiple job paths exist without a trade background.
- Fast, Practical Training: Complete White Card training in one day, receive your interim certificate immediately, and start applying right away.
- Real Benefits: Better pay, reliable hours, long‑term career progression, and flexibility that outpaces many office jobs.
Why More Women Are Getting Into Construction —and How You Can Too
For decades, construction was always seen as a man’s game.
But in 2025, that idea’s well and truly out the window.
Across the country, more women are stepping into roles on building sites, infrastructure projects, and civil works crews — not just in admin, but as labourers, plant operators, tradies, and supervisors.
And they’re not just filling gaps — they’re gaining real wins: better pay, reliable hours, long-term career options, and monthly pay cheques that put most office jobs to shame.
What’s driving the shift?
Skills shortages, changing site culture, government support — and more women realising they don’t need a trade background to get started.
But before any of them touched a hand-tool, stepped on-site, or applied for a job — they all did one thing first:
They got their construction industry White Card.
Because no matter your age, background, or experience — if you want to work in construction in Australia, a White Card is required by law.
And right now, it’s opening doors faster than ever.
Trainer’s Insight
“Most of the women we train don’t come from a construction background. Some have never picked up a tool. But once they realise the opportunities out there — and that all it takes to get started is one day of safety training — they stop doubting themselves and start backing themselves.”
By the Numbers — Women in Construction in 2025
Construction isn’t just calling for more workers — it’s actively changing who it puts on the tools.
In 2020, women made up just over 12% of Australia’s construction workforce.ⁱ
Fast forward to 2025, and that figure has jumped to 15.5%, with even stronger representation in trades, civil, and supervisory roles.ⁱⁱ
That might not sound huge — but it’s the fastest recorded growth in decades.
More importantly, employers are no longer asking why they should hire women — they’re asking how soon can they start.
Here’s what the shift looks like in real numbers:
📊 Female Participation in Construction: 2020 vs 2025
| Metric | 2020 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| % of Women in Construction Workforce | 12.0%¹ | 15.5%² |
| Top Roles Held by Women | Admin, Estimating, Interior Fitout | Labouring, Plant Operation, Traffic Control, Site Supervision |
| Average Weekly Earnings (All Workers) | $1,395³ | $1,630⁴ |
| Average Weekly Earnings (Construction) | $1,781³ | $2,080⁴ |
| Average Female Construction Apprentice Wage | ~$640/week⁵ | ~$730/week⁶ |
| Federal & State Investment in Female Trades Initiatives | <$150M⁷ | $320M+⁸ |
All dollar values shown in AUD.
These numbers don’t lie — and the gap is closing fast.
From higher pay rates to more visible women in hard-hat roles, the industry is evolving.
And with a forecast shortfall of over 110,000 construction workers nationally by 2027,⁹ women aren’t just welcome — they’re urgently needed.
Trainer’s Insight
“Five years ago, you’d be lucky to see one or two women in a class of 20. Now it’s not unusual to have half the room filled with women — some are just starting out, others are changing careers, and many already have jobs lined up after they complete the course.”
🧾 Stat Sources:
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Sydney Build Expo (2020)
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Master Builders Report: Women in Building and Construction (2024)
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ABS Average Weekly Earnings (November 2020)
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ABS Average Weekly Earnings (May 2025 Preliminary)
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Construction Skills Queensland (2021 Apprentice Report)
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(NCVER) National Centre for Vocational Education Research (2025 VET Data)
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VIC Government Australia – Women in Construction Strategy (2020)
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Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, Budget Papers (2025)
What’s Driving the Shift Toward Women in Construction?
More women are entering construction roles across Australia — but this shift isn’t random.
In 2025, there’s a clear set of drivers behind the rising number of female construction workers, tradies, and site operators.
From skill shortages to government-backed incentives, this growth is being fuelled by both demand and opportunity.
And for women looking for a new career path, that means now is the time to act.
1. Construction Skills Shortages Are Forcing Change
Australia is short more than 110,000 skilled construction workers — and that gap keeps growing.
Major infrastructure projects, housing targets, and renewable energy builds all depend on boots on the ground.
The result?
More construction companies are widening their hiring scope — and that includes targeting women who are ready to work, even without prior trade experience.
2. Government Funding Is Opening Doors
There’s never been more financial support for women entering the construction industry.
Federal and state governments are actively backing initiatives to attract female tradies and apprentices, including:
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The National Women in Construction Infrastructure Initiative
-
Fee-Free TAFE programs focused on core trade pathways
-
State incentives for businesses who hire and train women in construction
Combined, these programs represent more than $320 million in active funding across Australia in 2025 — removing a huge barrier to entry for women who want to upskill.
3. Site Culture Is Shifting — Slowly, But Surely
Construction is still a tough industry, but it’s not the boys’ club it used to be.
Today’s sites are safer, more professional, and increasingly aware of the need for diversity.
Companies are now:
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Investing in female-friendly site facilities
-
Mandating respectful workplace policies
-
Offering flexible hours on selected builds
-
Creating career development pathways for women
It’s not perfect — but it’s improving fast.
4. More Women Are Seeing Construction as a Career — Not Just a Job
This isn’t about ticking diversity boxes.
Women are staying in the industry because it offers better pay, more security, and real upward mobility.
From starting as labourers or traffic controllers, many women now move into roles such as:
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Civil plant operators
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Site supervisors
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Trade business owners
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Project managers
These are jobs that pay well, offer long-term options, and don’t require a degree — just training, experience, and the right tickets.
Trainer’s Insight
“I’ve trained women who’ve spent years in nursing, childcare, retail — and they’re just burnt out. They’re not here to ‘try something different’ — they’re here to get qualified, get on-site, and start earning decent money. And once they’re in, they realise they should’ve done it years ago.”
What Jobs Are Women Actually Doing in Construction in 2025?
Forget the old stereotype of women only working in admin or design roles.
In 2025, women are taking on hands-on roles across every level of construction — from operating machinery and laying foundations to supervising teams and running sites.
Here’s what we’re seeing more of every month:
Common On-Site Jobs Women Are Stepping Into
| Role | Typical Pay Range (Weekly) | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| General Labourer | $1,300 – $1,800 | White Card, PPE |
| Traffic Controller | $1,400 – $2,100 | White Card, Traffic Management Cert |
| Civil Plant Operator | $1,800 – $2,500+ | White Card, VOC or RII Tickets |
| Driller’s Offsider / Field Assistant | $2,000 – $3,000+ (FIFO) | White Card, Physical Fitness, Add-on Tickets |
| Apprentice Tradie (e.g. carpentry, plumbing) | $650 – $1,100 | White Card, Enrolled in Apprenticeship |
| Site Supervisor (with experience) | $2,300 – $3,200+ | Trade Background, Supervisory Certs |
| Construction Project Coordinator | $1,800 – $2,700 | Experience + Construction Admin or PM Cert |
Pay varies by location, experience, and job type. Many FIFO roles include meals, flights, and accommodation.
You don’t need to have previous experience on the tools.
A huge number of women now working in construction were previously in:
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Retail
-
Hospitality
-
Aged care
-
Beauty
-
Admin
-
Unemployed
They didn’t need a trade — they just needed the right training and a shot.
And for many of them, that started with getting a White Card.
Trainer’s Insight
“We see it all the time — women who’ve never even considered construction come through our White Card course, ask the right questions, and leave more job-ready than some of the guys. They’re switched on, they take safety seriously, and once they see how much they could be earning — that’s it. They’re in.”
How to Get Started — Even If You’ve Never Worked in Construction Before
You don’t need a trade background.
You don’t need a contact in the industry.
And you definitely don’t need to be “one of the boys.”
In 2025, women across Australia are entering construction with no prior experience — just a willingness to learn, and the right entry-level tickets.
Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Get Your White Card
This is non-negotiable.
A White Card is your legal requirement to work on any active construction site in Australia — from a suburban build to a major infrastructure project.
You’ll need to complete a nationally recognised construction induction course (CPCWHS1001) through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
Once you’ve passed, you can legally enter any job site in Australia.
At National White Card Courses, we run same-day, face-to-face training across 30+ locations — with your certificate issued on the spot.
Step 2: Think About Where You Want to Start
You don’t need to figure it all out upfront — but it helps to know what kind of role you’re aiming for.
Most women begin in one of these roles:
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General labouring
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Traffic control
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Civil construction assistant
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Trade apprenticeship
-
FIFO service crew
Each of these has different requirements — but they all start with the White Card.
Step 3: Add the Tickets You Need (When You’re Ready)
Depending on the job, you may need:
-
HR licence (for truck driving roles)
Most of these can be completed in one or two days.
You don’t have to do them all at once — many women add these gradually after completing their White Card.
Step 4: Start Applying for Jobs
Once you’ve got your White Card and any additional tickets, it’s go time.
We recommend:
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Setting up alerts on SEEK and Indeed
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Registering with labour hire companies
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Joining local Facebook job groups
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Applying directly to large construction contractors and councils
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Checking the NWCC White Card Job Board
Most employers won’t care that you’re new — they just want to see that you’re trained, eligible, and ready to show up.
Trainer’s Insight
“The best advice I can give? Don’t overthink it. You don’t need to be the strongest, the loudest, or the most experienced. Just be reliable, train properly, and show up ready to work. That’s what employers actually care about.”
Frequently Asked Questions: Women Starting in Construction
1. I’m not physically strong — will that hold me back in construction?
Not at all. While some roles require physical fitness (like labouring or off-siding), many others rely on equipment, coordination, and problem-solving — not brute strength. In fact, a lot of women outperform their male coworkers because they work smarter, communicate better, and take safety more seriously.
2. I’ve never worked in construction — how do I know if it’s for me?
You won’t know until you step into it. But if you’re someone who’s practical, reliable, and wants better pay or job stability, construction is worth exploring. Start with your White Card — it’s low-commitment, affordable, and opens the door to multiple pathways. Plenty of women come through our training not sure if they’ll stick with it — then end up loving the work.
3. Are there age limits? I’m in my 30s/40s and feel like it might be too late to start.
It’s never too late. We’ve trained women in their 20s, 30s, 50s — even a few in their 60s — who are now working confidently on-site. Construction values experience, attitude, and dependability over age. If you’re ready to work, you’ll be taken seriously.
4. I’m worried about being the only woman on-site. Is that still common?
It depends on the site, but it’s changing. More women are entering the industry than ever, and many employers actively try to create more inclusive crews. You may still find yourself in the minority — but you won’t be alone. You’ll find support, respect, and plenty of women who’ve already made the transition and are willing to help others through.
5. Is construction really a long-term career option, or just a temporary fix?
It can absolutely be a career. A lot of women start out to earn quick money or escape retail, then realise they can keep climbing — into trade licensing, supervision, project coordination, or even business ownership. With training, experience, and the right attitude, you can go a long way.
6. Can I get a White Card course that fits around my schedule?
Yes. At NWCC, we run weekday, weekend, and evening options in face-to-face venues across NSW, QLD, and VIC. Courses are fast, practical, and completed in a single day — with your interim certificate issued on the spot. You walk out ready to apply for jobs.
7. Do I need to know exactly what job I want before doing the White Card?
Not at all. The White Card is your legal entry point — nothing happens without it. Even if you’re still exploring your options, getting your White Card puts you in the game and shows employers you’re serious. Once you’ve got it, you’ll start seeing what jobs feel like the right fit.
8. I don’t know anyone in the industry. How do I actually find a job after training?
Most people don’t have connections — and that’s okay. After your White Card, start with SEEK, Indeed, labour hire companies, Facebook job groups, and direct applications to big contractors. Employers are short-staffed and actively looking for trained, reliable workers — especially women who are ready to go.
9. What if I’m still unsure?
That’s normal. The key is to take one small step. Getting your White Card doesn’t lock you into anything — but it does give you options. Whether you end up working on a housing site, in civil, or even in mining, you won’t know until you try. And you might be surprised at how fast your whole situation can change once you start.
Trainer’s Insight
“We’ve trained thousands of women now — some were nervous, some weren’t sure if they’d even finish the course. But they backed themselves. And for a lot of them, that one day changed everything. It’s not about knowing exactly what you want — it’s about giving yourself a shot.”
Ready to Start? Here’s What to Do Next
You don’t need to know how to swing a hammer.
You don’t need to be “one of the boys.”
And you definitely don’t need to waste another year in a job that’s underpaid, undervalued, or going nowhere.
If you’re ready to earn more, learn on the job, and open the door to real career options — construction is waiting.
And it all starts with your White Card.
At National White Card Courses, we’ll get you qualified the right way — fast, recognised, and ready to work.
✅ Government-approved RTO (RTO 41072)
✅ Face-to-face training across 30+ locations
✅ Same-day certification — start applying immediately
✅ Trainers with real on-site experience
✅ Job-ready training that gets you hired fast
Thousands of women have already made the switch.
You could be next.
Enrol now and get started — your future’s not going to build itself.
Why Women Choose National White Card Courses
When you’re stepping into something new — especially an industry like construction — you don’t just want the quickest option.
You want training that makes sense, feels real, and sets you up to succeed from day one.
That’s what we deliver.
Straightforward, Real-World Training
We don’t just read out safety rules.
We explain how they apply on an actual job site — so you’re not left second-guessing when it matters.
Whether you’re coming from hospitality, healthcare, admin or straight out of school, our training gives you the confidence to walk onto site and know what you’re doing.
Trainers Who’ve Actually Worked the Jobs
Our sessions are led by qualified trainers with real construction experience — not slideshow operators.
They know what to expect on-site, how to keep you safe, and what employers actually look for.
And they’re here to make sure you leave with more than just a certificate.
No Time-Wasting, No Jargon
We know what bad training looks like — long-winded, confusing, and completely disconnected from the real world.
This isn’t that.
We keep it clear, practical, and to the point — with real examples, hands-on learning, and zero filler.
All-Inclusive Pricing
There are no surprises.
Your course fee includes everything:
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Face-to-face or live online delivery
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PPE for in-person sessions
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All learning materials
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Interim certificate issued same day
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Your official White Card, posted after completion
No hidden fees. No upsells. Just everything you need to get certified properly — fast.
Nationally Recognised and Fully Approved
We’re an accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO 41072), authorised to deliver the CPCWHS1001 – Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry course.
Your White Card is valid in every state and territory across Australia.
Flexible Times and Locations
We run White Card courses across NSW, QLD, VIC, and online — with weekday, weekend, and evening options to suit your schedule.
Walk Out Job-Ready
When you finish the course, you’ll get your interim certificate on the same day — which means you can legally start work immediately.
Your official White Card will be sent in the mail shortly after.
Trainer’s Insight
“We get a lot of women in our sessions who are nervous at first. But by the end of the day, they’re not just qualified — they’re confident. We don’t talk down to people. We give them the tools, the knowledge, and the support to get on site and start earning.”
Get Your Official Construction Industry White Card at a Training Location Near You!
When it comes to your safety and workplace credentials, don’t settle for less.
National White Card Courses is an accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO 41072) providing nationally recognised White Card courses in Australia.
Our White Card training and certification is approved by all relevant government bodies, including SafeWork NSW, WorkSafe QLD, WorkSafe VIC, WorkSafe WA, SafeWork SA, and WorkSafe Tasmania.
We ensure you receive comprehensive, hands-on instruction that online courses simply can’t match.
By choosing National White Card Courses, you’re protecting yourself from the risks associated with online training — like potential scams, unrecognised certifications, and inadequate preparation for real-world scenarios.
Our White Card training provides you with a legitimate and valid White Card certificate that can be used anywhere in Australia.
Enrol in a Government-Approved White Card Course Below:
On This Page
- Introduction: Why More Women Are Swapping the Office for High‑Vis
- By the Numbers: Women in Construction in 2025
- What’s Driving the Shift Toward Women in Construction
- What Jobs Are Women Actually Doing in Construction
- How to Get Started — Even If You’ve Never Worked in Construction Before
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Women Choose National White Card Courses
- Ready to Start? Here’s What to Do Next
Author Bio:
Samuel Bohr
CEO, Founder and Trainer at National White Card Courses (NWCC)
With over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, Samuel has worked on major infrastructure and mining projects for top companies like Chevron, Rio Tinto, and BHP. After completing his plumbing apprenticeship, Samuel transitioned to plant operations and large-scale projects, including the WestConnex tunnel in Sydney. Samuel is now focused on teaching White Card courses as an accredited White Card trainer, where he shares his extensive industry experience and expertise.
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