Supporting women to achieve VET-based careers

The Australian Government has made it clear that women’s equality is essential for strengthening our economy, our society and our nation. It has committed to advancing gender equality as a national priority and placed this at the centre of much of the Government’s work.

The Australian Government cannot tackle this issue alone, it needs assistance from other levels of government, employers, business, unions, communities and individuals, as well as education and training providers to support lasting cultural change. 

Consultation summary

In late 2022, the Department engaged with stakeholders to understand what is most effective in attracting and retaining women in VET-based occupations with low levels of women’s participation.

In 2023, the Department consulted with a range of stakeholders to guide policy and program design to assist women to achieve higher-paying careers via VET pathways.

The Department engaged with over 160 individuals from more than 120 organisations through a discussion paper and a series of roundtables and meetings. This included a wide range of industry and business peaks, employers, unions, community organisations, social justice advocates, academics and researchers, students, and skills and training providers.

The Supporting women to achieve VET-based careers discussion paper contained questions and information that provided context and helped frame thoughts and feedback. Responses helped the Department understand what is important for the design and implementation of initiatives.

Discussion Paper - Supporting women to achieve VET-based careers.pdf

Discussion Paper - Supporting women to achieve VET-based careers.docx

The Supporting women to achieve vocational education and training-based careers: Consultation Summary provides a thematic analysis of stakeholder views gathered from roundtables, meetings and written feedback. The Department will continue to engage with key stakeholders on future opportunities for vocational education and training (VET) to support women’s economic equality.

Understanding the perspectives of those already engaged in government funded projects, organisations tendering for contracts, through to those supporting and delivering for women on the ground is critical for understanding what is required to support women to achieve VET-based careers.

The Department would like to thank those individuals and organisations who gave their time to provide their insights to inform future skills and training initiatives to support women’s economic equality.

2023 Consultation Summary - Supporting women to achieve VET based careers.pdf

2023 Consultation Summary - Supporting women to achieve VET based careers.docx