The final workshop in a series held across Australia to help women build careers in the forest and wood products industry is being held in Mt Gambier, following AUSTimber.
Establishing a Women in Forests and Timber Network project manager Jillian Roscoe said although the forest and wood products industry was a vibrant sector of the economy, with higher paying and more stable jobs than the workforce average, it had a problem attracting enough women.
“The Women in Forests and Timber Network will foster a range of programs to provide women with the support and mentoring they need to build careers in the industry,” Mrs Roscoe said.
A draft report on how the Network may look is to be launched at the workshop, with participants given the opportunity to discuss the options raised.
Industry training advisory body ForestWorks will host the established network on behalf of the industry.
ForestWorks CEO Michael Hartman said he was excited to host Network, which had the potential to encourage women to join the industry.
“The forest and wood products industry offers high quality jobs, safe workplaces and an environment that supports and champions all employees,” Mr Hartman said.
“Women play vital roles throughout the industry and it is imperative their valuable contribution is recognised and celebrated, and this network is part of an ongoing strategy to support increased participation by women.
“Our industry is part of Australia’s low-carbon future economy and, as such, it must have a diverse workforce and engage all the skills and knowledge available in our communities.”
The Establishing a Women in Forests and Timber Network project is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, under Australia’s Farming Future.
Workshops are also sponsored by Health Care Insurance.
The project aims to support the development of a network to improve the recognition of women in the forests and timber industries, encourage networking and engagement, and support access to capacity building and professional development opportunities.
Its development has been managed by the Victorian Association of Forest Industries (VAFI).
The final workshop will be held on Friday 30th March from 10am til 2pm at the Main Corner, Mount Gambier. Please contact Jillian Roscoe to RSVP on 03 9611 9002 or [email protected].
