Training to address gendered violence in the construction sector

Canberra construction workers will be asked to speak out against gendered violence and to help make the industry safer and more welcoming for women, through a campaign to be rolled out through the ACT this year. The Active Bystander/Gender Equity training is supported by the ACT Government and will be made available to all construction workers.

Zachary Smith, CFMEU ACT Secretary, noted that creating safer and more welcoming workplaces for women and people who are gender diverse is a responsibility for everyone in the industry. Smith added that the training will give construction workers the tools they need to support each other in the workplace, to stop harassing behaviour before it occurs and to speak up when they see something wrong or when their workmates need it.

“Construction workers know that speaking up about unsafe work practices is critical to keep themselves and their mates safe at work. This training builds on the same principle to encourage everyone in the industry to make sure ACT construction has a culture where all workers feel safe. The CFMEU ACT has been including gender equity training in Agreements signed with builders since 2019 and the union has long recognised the importance of continually improving the culture in construction and addressing issues that limit women’s participation in the industry,” Smith said.

The ACT Government has supported the development and delivery of this training.

“Supporting women and girls to participate and thrive in all industries, including the building and construction industry, is important not only to the lives of women but to our community more broadly,” Minister Berry said.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Gorodenkoff