Minister for Women Karen Struthers today encouraged young women working in construction to nominate for the National Association of Women in Construction’s Queensland 2009 Crystal Vision Awards.
In their 17th year, the awards recognise the achievements and industry advancements of women in Queensland’s construction, property, civil or related industries.
Speaking at the official launch of the awards, Ms Struthers said the awards were an important initiative to celebrate the successes and diversity women bring to the industry.
“Queensland’s construction industry has one of the lowest proportions of female employees – just 14.4 per cent in 2006,” Ms Struthers said.
“Despite this small proportion of females, many of the women that do work in the industry have overcome some significant barriers to demonstrate excellence and achieve amazing heights in their fields.
“I commend the Association for its dedication in supporting women who enter and remain in an industry which is so vital to the economic prosperity of our State, through both the Crystal Vision Awards and its other initiatives.
“The awards are a great vehicle for showcasing to girls and other women the rewarding career opportunities on offer to females in construction.”
Ms Struthers said the Bligh Government was pleased to support the awards as part of its ongoing commitment to increasing the proportion of women in the workforce.
“The Bligh Government is focused on helping Queensland women achieve economic security by boosting employment pathways and opportunities for women, particularly in traditionally male-dominated industries,” she said.
“Through the Office for Women’s Women in Hard Hats initiative, we will continue to work in partnership with industry and business to improve education, training and career opportunities for women and girls in these areas.
“That is why, for the third consecutive year, the Bligh Government is proud to sponsor the Young Achiever category in these awards.”
The Office for Women, Department of Communities Award to a Young Achiever will recognise a young woman who has overcome challenges to achieve her position and demonstrated a contribution to the industry and community, as well as her leadership potential and future aspirations.
Ms Struthers encouraged women under 27 years of age working the construction industry to nominate for the Young Achiever Award.
For more information about the National Association of Women in Construction and the Queensland 2009 Crystal Vision Awards, visit www.nawic.com.au/qld.
For more information about the Office for Women and the Women in Hard Hats initiative, visit www.women.qld.gov.au or call Women’s Infolink on 1800 177 577, 8am to 6pm weekdays.
Minister’s Office Martin Philip 3235 4286
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