ASA announces new alliance membership with Empowered Women in Trades

On 10 July 2025, Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) welcomed Apprenticeship Support Australia as an Alliance Member, inaugurating a joint commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the skilled trades industry in Australia.

As an Alliance Member, Apprenticeship Support Australia will help elevate EWIT’s programs and efforts to a national scale. We will support by funding or subsidising EWIT’s Tool Skills Days, government submissions, involvement at expos and conferences, Talent Attraction Programs, and School Programs across Australia. Together, both organisations will advocate for skilled trades as a fantastic career opportunity for women and non-binary people.

EWIT campaigns for diversity, inclusivity and gender equality, with a mission to transform the trades industry by empowering women and non-binary people in skilled trades. In collaboration with educational institutions and industry leaders, EWIT provides support services and resources to empower women and non-binary people as they navigate the challenges and opportunities within the skilled trades sector.

EWIT firmly believes that diversity not only enriches workplaces but also fosters innovation and drives positive change within the industry.

Why Apprenticeship Support Australia supports EWIT’s mission

Australia is currently battling a serious skilled labour shortage across several industries like construction, manufacturing, technology, engineering and renewable energy, with a particular demand for technicians and trade workers.

According to a 2024 review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System (Incentive System) undertaken by The Australian Government, women make up only 7.8 per cent of apprentices in male-dominated trade occupations.

EWIT presents a sound proposal that women represent the most fundamental and likely answer to the significant skills shortages in construction, manufacturing, and renewable energy. As such, EWIT strives to achieve 30 per cent female representation by 2030 through promoting and encouraging opportunities that are unlocked by a career in skilled trades.

As an Alliance Member, Apprenticeship Support Australia will be at the forefront of amplifying EWIT’s ‘30 by 30’ messaging to drive crucial positive change and build a thriving future for the Australian trades industry.

Lee Xavier, CEO of Apprenticeship Support Australia, said: “United, we’re building skills and transforming Australia’s future. By equipping and empowering the next generation of tradespeople with knowledge and opportunity, we are fostering a more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant workforce.”

Melinda Davis, General Manager of Empowered Women in Trades, said: “Apprenticeship Support Australia’s commitment to diversity serves as an example for other companies and organisations within the industry. By championing diversity initiatives and implementing inclusive practices, they are not only contributing to the advancement of women in skilled trades but also paving the way for a more equitable and diverse workforce.”

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