Women are about two percent of the Australian trades workforce. Of women who start apprenticeships, only 19 percent are in trade occupations rather than non-trade ones (administrative, retail, hospitality apprenticeships). This is one of the most male-dominated parts of the Australian workforce, and one of the most rapidly changing.
The Australian Government has designated women in trades a priority occupation. Significant financial incentives, dedicated training pathways and active recruitment programs are in place. If you’re considering a trade, 2026 is the easiest time in living memory to start.
Why trades are opening up for women
Three forces are converging.
Skills shortages. Australia is critically short of tradespeople, particularly in construction, electrotechnology, automotive and resources. Employers are actively recruiting women.
Government incentives. Priority occupation status means women apprentices in eligible trades can access up to $10,000 in completion incentives, plus relocation assistance and other supports.
Cultural change. Programs like Tradeswomen Australia, Empowered Women in Trades, and dedicated Women in Trades programs at every TAFE in the country have created peer networks and structural support that didn’t exist a decade ago.
Career paths in trades
Trades cover a wide range of occupations, with very different working environments:
Construction trades: carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing, electrical, painting, plastering.
Mechanical and automotive: motor mechanics, heavy diesel, panel beating, auto electrical.
Mining and resources trades: drillers, fitters, processing operators, plant mechanics.
Energy and utilities: electrical, instrumentation, telecommunications, water.
Niche trades: welding, fitting, boilermaking, machining.
Some trades are heavily site-based and physical. Others are more workshop-based. Some involve travel; others are local. The variety means there’s a trade that fits almost any working preference.
How to start a trade as a woman
Four entry routes.
Apprenticeships and traineeships. The standard entry. Most apprenticeships run 3-4 years, combining paid work with structured training (typically at TAFE). Apprenticeship Support Australia, MEGT, APM and 1300apprentice all run dedicated women in trades programs with mentoring and support.
Pre-apprenticeship and TAFE pathways. Pre-apprenticeship courses (often 5-12 weeks) introduce you to a trade before committing to the full apprenticeship. Many TAFEs run women-only pre-apprenticeship programs.
School-based options. School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT) let you start an apprenticeship while still at school.
Mature-age entry. If you’re considering a trade later in life, the priority occupation incentives apply. Programs like Lendlease’s women in construction pre-apprenticeship offer structured entry routes for mature-age women.
Financial support available
If you’re a woman starting an apprenticeship in a priority occupation, you can access:
- Up to $10,000 in completion incentives ($5,000 for part-time)
- Relocation assistance if you’ve moved to start the apprenticeship
- Trade Support Loans (low-interest loans for tools, transport and living expenses)
- Free or subsidised tools through priority occupation programs
This is more financial support than has ever been available for women entering trades in Australia.
Trades salaries and earning trajectories
Apprentice wages start lower than other entry-level work (typically $14-$22 per hour depending on year and trade). Once qualified, tradespeople earn well: $80,000-$120,000+ for qualified electricians, plumbers and mechanics; significantly more in mining-related trades or with FIFO loadings.
The trajectory matters. Many tradespeople build small businesses or move into supervision and project management within 5-10 years of qualifying.
The honest reality: site culture, safety, and what good looks like
The reality of working as a woman on a male-dominated site varies enormously. Some sites are genuinely welcoming. Some are not. The strongest employers have:
- Active anti-harassment policies with real consequences
- Female mentors and peer networks on site
- Adequate facilities (separate toilets, change rooms)
- PPE designed for women’s bodies
- Inclusive language and culture from leadership down
When you’re considering an apprenticeship, ask about these specifics.
Best trades employers for women in Australia
WORK180 endorses a range of construction, mining, energy and infrastructure employers who employ tradespeople.
Industry bodies like Tradeswomen Australia and Empowered Women in Trades also publish lists of vetted employers actively recruiting women.
Five questions to ask before signing an apprenticeship
- “How many other women are currently apprentices on this team or site?”
- “What’s the harassment policy and reporting mechanism?”
- “What facilities are in place specifically for women?”
- “What progression looks like for women who’ve completed apprenticeships here?”
- “What’s the training and mentoring structure across the four years?”
Key takeaways
- Women are about 2 percent of the trades workforce, but priority occupation status has unlocked significant financial and structural support.
- Career paths range across construction, mining, automotive, energy and niche trades.
- Apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, school-based and mature-age entry routes all exist.
- Up to $10,000 in completion incentives plus relocation and tool support is available for women in eligible trades.
- Site culture varies enormously. Ask the specific questions before signing.
FAQ
Am I too old to start a trade?
No. Mature-age apprenticeships are common and supported. Many trades welcome older entrants for the maturity and reliability they bring.
Can I do an apprenticeship part-time?
Yes, with reduced incentives ($5,000 instead of $10,000). Speak to an apprenticeship support provider about your circumstances.
What if the site I’m placed at isn’t supportive?
Apprenticeship Support Australia and similar providers can help mediate, and in some cases relocate you to a different host employer.
