WOMEN IN MANUFACTURING
An AMWU Initiative - Empowering Women in Victoria’s Manufacturing Industry
REAL WOMEN’S STORIES
Ambere - Otis Mechanical Fitter
Ange - Fire Truck Diesel Mechanic
Meet Ange, a fourth-year apprentice diesel mechanic with Fire Rescue Victoria. As the eldest of twelve, she grew up in New Zealand before her family migrated to Australia to work as fruit pickers and laborers. Determined to build a better life, Ange faced cultural barriers and family expectations that women should focus on unpaid work at home. Her decision to enter a male-dominated trade was a "culture shock" to her family. Despite this, Ange is proving that women belong in trades and inspires others, including her sister, who has also started an apprenticeship, to follow her path.
The AMWU Women in Manufacturing Project
Attracting Women to Manufacturing
It’s essential that manufacturing careers and trades are promoted to women from a young age. We’re supporting manufacturing companies and RTOs to provide site tours and try-a-trade days for women of all ages to gain exposure to the industry.
Improving Flexibility
Women carry most unpaid caregiving duties, and long, inflexible shifts in manufacturing often exclude them. We’re advocating for job-sharing opportunities to attract and retain women in the industry.
Supporting Workplaces to Improve Culture
Training for leadership and workers
Trauma-informed training for mid-level management
Manufacturing Women’s Future Conference November 2024