Together We RISEis a national initiative designed to transform how women experience apprenticeships in construction, clean energy, and manufacturing.
PLAY NOW
Real change doesn’t come from another policy document or poster on the crib room wall.
It comes from conversation.
Exclusively for NAEN Group Training Organisation (GTO) members, this program is led by the National Apprentice Employment Network in partnership with WAVE (Women in Adult and Vocational Education), Bendigo Kangan Institute, and the Australian Workers Union.
THE CHALLENGE
Women currently make up just 3% of trades in Australia — yet the construction, clean energy and advanced manufacturing industries are calling for more skilled workers.
By opening doors for women, we can grow the workforce, strengthen teams, and meet the skills needs of tomorrow.
The issue isn’t lack of interest or capability, it’s a system that just wasn’t designed with women in mind.
When talented women leave their apprenticeships because of isolation, exclusion, or unsafe conditions. we lose the diverse perspectives that drive innovation and solve complex problems and our skills shortage crisis continues.
Together We RISE addresses this challenge head-on through evidence-based, systemic change.
Women in Trades:
The Numbers Behind the Challenge
are women. They represent 7.8% of all apprentices
%
live in regional or remote locations
%
are the First Nations People
%
are people with disabilities
%
are under the age of 25
Source: Review analysis based NCVER (2024) apprentices and trainees data
RISE stands for Respect, Inclusion, Safety, Equity
– the foundations every apprentice deserves, and the future our industry is building.
RISE isn’t about fixing women to fit a system. It’s about evolving our industry to unlock everyone’s potential; because the future of Australian trades depends on it.
Funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations under the Building Women’s Careers Program.
THE EVIDENCE
Why does this matter?
For GTOs & Host Employers
Imagine doubling your talent pool by welcoming more women into trades.
Teams thrive when everyone feels included — it means apprentices stay and succeed.
Taking the lead on equity shows your organisation is future-ready and trusted by the next generation.
For Women Apprentices
Connection and mentoring help women back themselves and step forward in their careers.
Feeling part of a supportive crew plays a key role in retaining women in their trade long term.
RISE opens pathways to leadership, growth and long-term security in industries that need you.
For The Industry
Skilled workers are in demand across every sector — gender equity is a proven way to strengthen the pipeline.
Women bring fresh ideas and strengths that spark innovation and improve results on the ground.
A diverse workforce isn’t just fair — it’s what keeps Australia building, making and powering forward.
OUR APPROACH
3 Pillars of Transformation
1
Foundations & Frameworks
Led by WAVE - Women in Adult and Vocational Education
Real change needs real insight. Through Gender Impact Assessments across Group Training Organisations, we're uncovering opportunities to strengthen our systems, policies, and culture.
These findings shape a national sector wide Gender Equality Action Plan.
Not another document to file away, but a practical roadmap for transformation that benefits everyone.
What this means:
Evidence-backed strategies that build on existing strengths while addressing areas for growth.
2
Connection & Community
Led by NAEN
Isolation is productivity's enemy. Our RISE & Shine network works to change that through peer connection, reverse mentoring, and storytelling that puts lived experience at the centre.
When women connect and share their insights, entire organisations get smarter and we all benefit.
What this means:
National support networks, mentoring opportunities, and platforms where women's voices drive innovation and improvement.
3
Capability & Culture
Led by Bendigo Kangan Institute and Australian Workers Union
Great workplace culture isn't an accident, it happens on purpose.
We're equipping leaders, field officers and host employers with the confidence, skills, and tools to create environments where everyone can contribute their best work.
What this means:
Training that transforms daily practice and leadership that drives lasting positive change
Together, these pillars create a cycle of evidence, voice, and action: where insight leads to influence, and influence leads to stronger, more successful organisations.
OUR TIMELINE
The Path Ahead
2025: Foundation Year
- April: Program launch and governance established
- July-Dec: Gender Impact Assessments across partner GTOs
- August: Turn the Tables reverse mentoring program launches
- October: RISE & Shine women's network pilot begins with founding champion GTOs
2026: Growth Year
- National Gender Equality Action Plan delivered
- Apprentice Assembly celebrates pilot achievements
- Inclusive leadership training for GTO leaders begins
- National RISE & Shine network expands to all NAEN GTO members
2027: Transformation Year
- Field officer capability building and host employer engagement
- Cultural safety toolkit for employers released
- Regional collaboration networks established
2028: The Future We’re Building Continues
- Sustainable frameworks embedded nationally and our work continues
The Future We're Building
When women thrive in apprenticeships, entire industries benefit. We gain diverse perspectives that solve complex problems, innovative approaches that drive productivity, and inclusive cultures that attract the best talent.
RISE isn’t just about numbers, though increasing women’s participation matters.
It’s about creating apprenticeship experiences where everyone can contribute their best work, where talent is recognised regardless of gender and where the next generation of trade workers reflects the diversity of Australian communities.