Launch: Gender Equity Course Yvette Berry MLA, Minister for Women CFMEU members, delegates and officials 12.30PM, 4 April 2022 at Multiplex Canberra Hospital Extension construction site
Canberra construction workers will be asked to stand up and speak out against gendered violence and to help make the industry safer and more welcoming for women through training to be rolled out through the ACT this year.
The Active Bystander/Gender Equity training being launched today (Monday 04 April) is supported by the ACT Government and will be made available to all construction workers.
“Safety is core union business and creating safer and more welcoming workplaces for women and people who are gender diverse is a responsibility for everyone in the industry,” said Zachary Smith CFMEU ACT Secretary.
“This training gives construction workers the tools they need to support each other in the workplace, to stop harassing behaviour before it occurs, and to speak up when they see something wrong or when their workmates need it.”
“Construction workers know that speaking up about unsafe work practices is critical to keep themselves and their mates safe at work.”
“This training builds on the same principle to encourage everyone in the industry to make sure ACT construction has a culture where all workers feel safe.”
“The CFMEU ACT has been including gender equity training in Agreements signed with builders since 2019 and union has long recognised the importance of continually improving the culture in construction and addressing issues that limit women’s participation in the industry.”
The ACT Government has supported the development and delivery of this training.
“Supporting women and girls to participate and thrive in all industries, including the building and construction industry, is important not only to the lives of women but to our community more broadly”, said Minister Berry.
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