How Short Courses Are Helping More Women Step Into High-Demand Jobs

How Short Courses Are Helping More Women Step Into High-Demand Jobs (Fast)
Key Takeaways

Key Takeaways

  • Record growth in female participation: Women have increased from 12% to 15.5% of the construction workforce in five years, with similar gains in mining and logistics.
  • No trade background required: Entry roles like labouring, traffic control, and FIFO support only need a White Card and basic tickets to get started.
  • Fast, practical training: Core courses such as White Card, Traffic Control, and Forklift can be completed in one day, with same-day interim certification.
  • Multi‑industry pathways: Stack certifications to move from entry-level roles into plant operation, site supervision, safety, or specialised civil and mining positions.
  • Perfect timing to upskill: With skill shortages, rising wages, and strong government incentives, now is the ideal moment to secure long-term, higher‑paying work.

More Women Are Choosing High-Pay, Hands-On Careers — And It’s Paying Off

For years, industries like construction, mining, logistics, and civil works were dominated by men — and many women never considered them as real career options.

But in 2025, that’s changing fast.

Across Australia, more women are stepping into high-vis roles — not just in admin, but on-site, in the field, and behind the controls of heavy machinery.

They’re earning good money, picking up practical skills, and building long-term careers in industries that need them.

And they’re not doing it by luck.

They’re doing it with nationally accredited training, the right certifications — and the confidence to back themselves.

Whether you're changing careers, returning to the workforce, or starting fresh, this guide shows exactly how women in Australia are using government-approved short courses to get qualified, get hired, and get ahead.

Why More Women Are Stepping Into Construction Roles in 2025

Why More Women Are Stepping Into Construction Roles in 2025

This isn’t just about inclusion — it’s about demand, dollars, and the future of Australia's workforce.

From construction to civil to mining, industries that once shut women out are now actively recruiting them.

Why? Because they have no choice — the skill shortages are too big to ignore.

  • Critical Workforce Gaps: According to Jobs and Skills Australia, the nation faces a shortage of over 110,000 construction workers by 2027. The mining sector is also under pressure, with demand for new project workers in regional WA and QLD rising sharply.
  • Government-Backed Incentives: More than $320 million in combined federal and state funding is being invested in programs to increase female participation in trades, infrastructure, and mining — including Fee-Free TAFE pathways and employer subsidies.
  • Better Pay, Sooner: Entry-level roles in civil and mining often start well above the national average. For example, women working FIFO in mining support roles can earn $2,000–$3,000+ per week — often with no prior experience.
  • Real Career Mobility: Women are starting out as labourers, offsiders, or traffic controllers, then upskilling into plant ops, supervisors, and even project managers — all without a traditional trade apprenticeship.
  • Safer, Smarter Sites: Workplace culture is shifting. Today’s sites are more safety-focused, more diverse, and better equipped with facilities and policies that support female participation.

For women looking to pivot careers, boost their income, or break out of low-paid work — the opportunity has never been more real.

Women on the Tools: The Stats Behind the Shift

Women on the Tools: The Stats Behind the Shift

It’s not just talk or social media hype — more women are entering construction, mining and civil roles than ever before.

Backed by government funding, changing site culture, and a growing need for skilled workers, the industry is evolving — fast.

In 2020, just 12% of the construction workforce in Australia identified as female.

By 2025, that number has jumped to 15.5% — the fastest growth recorded in decades.

And it’s not just office roles anymore.

Women are stepping into labouring, plant ops, traffic control, and site leadership positions across the country.

Metric 2020 2025
% of Women in Construction Workforce 12.0% 15.5%
Top Roles Held by Women Admin, Estimating, Interior Fitout Labouring, Plant Operation, Traffic Control, Site Supervision
Average Weekly Earnings (All Workers) $1,395 $1,630
Average Weekly Earnings (Construction) $1,781 $2,080
Average Female Apprentice Wage ~$640/week ~$730/week
Federal & State Funding for Female Trades Initiatives <$150M $320M+


This isn’t a trend — it’s a transformation.

According to Jobs and Skills Australia, we’re looking at a shortfall of over 110,000 construction workers by 2027.

Employers aren’t just open to hiring women — they’re actively recruiting them.

From better wages to more visible female leaders on-site, the industry is shifting.


Trainer’s Insight: “Five years ago, you’d be lucky to see one or two women in a class of 20. Now it’s not unusual to have half the room filled with women — some are just starting out, others are changing careers, and many already have jobs lined up after they complete their course.”


Sources:

UPGRADE YOUR SKILLS: FIND YOUR COURSE

What Jobs Are Women Actually Doing in Construction?

What Jobs Are Women Actually Doing in Construction?

Women aren’t just getting a foot in the door — they’re stepping into the full spectrum of construction and civil jobs, from labouring and traffic control to high-paying FIFO and site leadership roles.

Many of these roles require no previous experience, no trade background, and no degree — just the right tickets, practical training, and a willingness to work.

And it’s not just construction.

Women are entering mining and infrastructure too, where roles like Driller’s Offsider and Plant Operator can earn upwards of $2,500 per week, often with travel, meals, and accommodation covered.

Role Typical Weekly Pay Requirements
General Labourer $1,300 – $1,800 White Card, PPE
Traffic Controller $1,400 – $2,100 White Card, Traffic Management Cert
Civil Plant Operator $1,800 – $2,500+ White Card, VOC or RII Tickets
Driller’s Offsider (FIFO) $2,000 – $3,000+ White Card, Physical Fitness, Add-on Tickets
Apprentice Tradie (Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing) $650 – $1,100 White Card, Apprenticeship Enrolment
Site Supervisor (with experience) $2,300 – $3,200+ Trade Background, Supervisor Certification
Construction Project Coordinator $1,800 – $2,700 Experience, Project Management Cert


Women in these roles are coming from all kinds of backgrounds — hospitality, retail, aged care, admin, even long-term unemployment.

What they have in common is the decision to get their White Card and take the next step.

Trainer’s Insight: “We’ve trained women who’ve never even picked up a drill — but they walk out of their course with more confidence and job-readiness than half the class. Employers want workers who show up, listen, and take safety seriously — and women are proving themselves across the board.”

UPGRADE YOUR SKILLS: FIND YOUR COURSE

How Women Are Getting Started — and Getting Hired Fast

How Women Are Getting Started — and Getting Hired Fast

Across Australia, thousands of women are entering industries like construction, mining, logistics, and civil works — many with no prior experience.

At National Courses, we’re helping them get certified, get hired, and get ahead.

Step 1: Choose an Industry You Want to Work In


You don’t need to have it all figured out — but a general direction helps. Many women start in areas like:

  • Construction: Labouring, traffic control, plant operation, site assistance
  • Mining & Resources: FIFO support roles, drillers’ offsiders, safety officers
  • Warehousing & Logistics: Forklift driving, dispatch, warehouse coordination
  • Infrastructure & Civil Works: Road crews, spotters, machinery operations

Step 2: Complete Your Core Certifications


To legally work on-site — and stand out to employers — you’ll need key qualifications.

National Courses delivers all the essentials, including:

  • White Card – mandatory for construction and mining sites
  • Traffic Control – for road work and civil construction jobs
  • Working at Heights – required for roofing, scaffolding, and tower work
  • Confined Space Entry – used in mining, tunnelling, and drain access
  • Forklift Licence – ideal for warehousing and logistics roles
  • First Aid & CPR – often required for FIFO and supervisory roles

Most courses take just one day, and many women stack two or more certifications to unlock better roles.

Step 3: Apply for Real Jobs — With the Right Credentials


Once you're certified, you're ready to apply.

And because there’s a national shortage of skilled workers, employers are hiring fast.

We recommend:

  • Setting alerts on SEEK and Indeed
  • Registering with labour hire agencies
  • Applying directly to mining, construction, and logistics firms
  • Joining job boards and Facebook groups targeting women in trades

    PRO TIP: Check the National White Card Courses Job Board for daily entry-level construction job listings

Most employers aren’t expecting you to have years of experience. They just want people who are qualified, reliable, and ready to work.

Step 4: Keep Upskilling as You Go


Starting is just the beginning.

Once you’re on the job, you can keep building your skillset — and your pay rate.

Many of our students go on to add:

Every extra ticket opens a new door — and puts you in line for higher pay, more responsibility, or a move into management.

“A lot of the women we train come in unsure if they’ll even get hired. A few weeks later, they’re calling to say they’ve landed a FIFO role or started full-time in traffic control. It happens fast — especially when you’ve got the right certifications.”
UPGRADE YOUR SKILLS: FIND YOUR COURSE

Why More Women Choose National Courses

Why More Women Choose National Courses

National Courses isn't just about getting you onto construction sites — it's about unlocking high-paying, high-demand jobs across industries like mining, logistics, civil construction, warehousing, and more.

We train thousands of women every year who are ready to move beyond low-paid work and into roles where their time, effort, and reliability actually get rewarded.

✔ Real Skills, Real Certifications


Whether you’re looking at plant operation, traffic control, mining induction, forklift work, or just want to start with a White Card — we deliver government-accredited training that qualifies you for real jobs across Australia.

✔ Fast-Tracked Entry to Better Work


Most of our courses are completed in one day. We don’t drag things out. We deliver what you need to be job-ready, and we do it fast — so you can start applying immediately, not in 6 months.

✔ More Than Just Construction


We’re not just for tradies. Our training helps women step into a range of industries where physical strength is less important than mindset, safety, and dependability — industries like mining, civil, logistics, warehousing, and road safety.

✔ Training That Respects Your Time


We offer weekday, weekend, and evening sessions in 20+ locations — so you can upskill without giving up other responsibilities. And if you’re looking to stack your tickets (like White Card + Traffic Control), we’ll help you line it up.

✔ No Fluff. No Confusion. Just Practical Training That Gets You Hired


We cut out the jargon and focus on what works — real-life safety procedures, site expectations, and exactly what employers are looking for when they hire new workers.

“The women we train often tell us the same thing — they never realised these jobs were even an option. But once they see the pay, the opportunities, and how quick it is to qualify — they stop doubting themselves. A week later, they’re in a vest, on a site, earning double what they were before.”
UPGRADE YOUR SKILLS: FIND YOUR COURSE

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


1. I’m deciding between multiple courses — how do I choose?


Start by thinking about where you want to work and how soon you want to start. If you want quick entry into construction or civil work, the White Card and Traffic Control courses are ideal. If you’re aiming for higher pay or FIFO roles, add Working at Heights, EWP, or Confined Space training. Our team can help guide you based on your goals.

2. Can I do multiple courses in one week?


Yes — many participants complete multiple short courses across a few days. For example, it's common to book Traffic Control and White Card in the same week, or pair Forklift with First Aid. Our scheduling is designed to help you stack your qualifications efficiently and get into the workforce faster.

3. What if I need support after training — like help finding a job?


We’re not a recruitment agency, but we do point students in the right direction. Our team shares practical tips for job hunting, including who’s hiring, where to look, and how to position your new qualifications on your resume or applications. We also regularly partner with workforce organisations that assist with placement.

4. Are your courses recognised by employers everywhere?


Absolutely. National Courses is an accredited RTO (RTO 41072), and all our training is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). That means your certifications are valid across all states and territories — and trusted by employers, councils, and contractors around the country.

5. Can I book training for a group or workplace team?


Yes — we offer corporate and group bookings with flexible delivery options. Whether you’re a business looking to upskill staff or a job provider supporting a group of jobseekers, we can deliver training at your location or ours, with custom schedules available. Just get in touch and we’ll organise the rest.

6. What’s the difference between online and face-to-face training?


Some of our short courses (like RSA or Food Safety) are available online, but many safety-critical courses — including White Card, EWP, Working at Heights, and Traffic Control — are face-to-face only due to strict licensing rules. In-person training also offers more hands-on learning and trainer support, which most students prefer.

7. I’ve never done any formal training before. Will I be able to keep up?


You don’t need prior experience or a high level of education to succeed in our courses. Our trainers use plain language, practical examples, and real-world scenarios — not just slides and jargon. If you’re willing to learn and ask questions, you’ll do just fine.

UPGRADE YOUR SKILLS: FIND YOUR COURSE

Build a Future That Pays Off — Starting Today

Build a Future That Pays Off — Starting Today

There’s a reason more women across Australia are choosing hands-on careers in construction, civil, logistics, and mining. It’s not just about good pay — it’s about control, confidence, and a career that actually goes somewhere.

With National Courses, you're not just getting a certificate. You're getting a pathway into real industries that need reliable people — and reward them properly. Whether you’re chasing more stability, more income, or more purpose, our training helps you take that next step — and take it fast.

We’ve trained thousands of women who were sick of starting over, tired of being overlooked, or just done with roles that went nowhere. Many had never stepped onto a site before. Some came from retail, childcare, hospitality, or health. But all of them had one thing in common — they were ready to back themselves and take action.

And once they did, everything changed.

Why Choose National Courses?

  • Fast Certification: Most of our core courses — including White Card, Traffic Control, and EWP — can be completed in just one day.
  • Nationwide Access: We run face-to-face training in 20+ locations across Australia, with weekday, weekend, and evening options available.
  • Real-World Training: No boring slideshows. Our trainers have worked the jobs and know what it takes to succeed on-site.
  • Same-Day Paperwork: Walk out with your interim certificate and start applying for jobs immediately.
  • Affordable Pricing: We believe in access — so we keep our course fees competitive and transparent, with no hidden costs.

You don’t need a trade background. You don’t need to know exactly where you’re headed. And you definitely don’t need to wait for “someday.”

If you’re willing to show up, learn, and work hard — we’ll give you the tools, the training, and the support to start strong and keep growing.

Your next chapter doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to begin. And it can start right here.



About National Courses

Nationally Recognised Training and Certification for a Wide Range of Industries



National Courses Pty Ltd (RTO 41072) is a trusted training provider offering short, nationally recognised courses across Australia.

We specialise in practical, job-ready training for industries like construction, civil, safety, and first aid — helping individuals and businesses stay qualified and competitive.

National Courses PTY LTD works with government programs, employers, and community organisations to deliver training that leads to real employment outcomes.

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Samuel Bohr