Media Release

19 June 2026

Attracting more women into building and construction could help address critical workforce shortages and support the delivery of South Australia’s housing and infrastructure pipeline, according to Master Builders SA.

Women currently make up just 13 per cent of Australia’s construction workforce and only around three per cent of trade occupations, despite growing demand for skilled workers across the sector.

Master Builders SA CEO Will Frogley said increasing female participation was essential if the industry was to meet future demand.

“South Australia needs 10,000 more workers to build the 84,000 homes needed by 2029 to meet its National Housing Accord obligations,” said Mr Frogley.

“The reality is that we can’t meet the state’s housing and infrastructure demand if we’re drawing from only half the talent pool.

“If we want to solve workforce shortages, we need more women choosing construction and more women staying in the industry.

“Our industry should be aiming for women to make up at least a quarter of the construction workforce over the next three years.

“That target is achievable, but only if we continue improving workplace culture, creating clear career pathways, and showcasing the opportunities available in construction.”

Recent research from Adelaide University suggests many women are interested in construction careers but want to see improvements in workplace culture, flexibility and career pathways before entering the industry.

Mr Frogley said the growing number of women succeeding in construction demonstrated the opportunities available across the sector.

Among them is Rebecca Lamont, the 2025 Master Builders SA Outstanding Woman in Construction.

Ms Lamont began her career as a labourer while studying Civil Engineering and has since worked on major projects including Adelaide Oval, schools and defence facilities.

She is now part of Lendlease’s State Senior Leadership Team, leading major defence projects.

“What I value most about the industry is the people: learning from exceptional leaders, collaborating with teams to achieve what often feels impossible, and mentoring those eager to grow from my experience,” Ms Lamont said.

“I recently completed a Master of Business Administration and graduated from the Australian Institute of Company Directors, opening even more opportunities in this incredible industry.”

The growing contribution of women to the industry will be recognised at the HiViZ Women’s Excellence Awards today.

The awards have attracted a record number of nominations this year, with more than 50 entries received across apprentice, tradie, business owner and leader, advocate and site professional categories.

Through its HiViZ Women Building SA program, Master Builders SA supports greater female participation in construction by promoting gender equality, highlighting industry challenges and encouraging more women to pursue construction careers.

“The record number of nominations for this year’s awards is a powerful reminder that women are already making an enormous contribution across every part of our industry,” Mr Frogley said.

“The awards provide an important platform to celebrate achievement, raise visibility and encourage more women to consider careers in construction.”

Master Builders SA HiViZ 2026 Women’s Excellence Awards
When: Friday 19 June 2026, 12.00-3.00pm
Where: Magarey Room, Adelaide Oval

Media contact: For more information, contact Amy Osborne on 0435 229 974.