Henderson: Austal push to increase female apprenticeships

HENDERSON based shipbuilder Austal has introduced a new initiative to boost their female apprenticeship numbers.

Premier Mark McGowan and Education and Training minister Sue Ellery visited the local shipbuilder on Thursday to hear more about their Pink Ship Program, which aims to increase female participation across the board from 12 per cent to 20 per cent.

Mr McGowan said the program encouraged more women into the traditionally male dominated industry through flexible working arrangements.

“With International Women’s Day (on March 8), it is important to recognise the valuable contribution women make every day in our lives,” he said.

“Austal is committed to increasing women representation in the workforce and encouraging a positive cultural change across an industry that has been traditionally male dominated.

“With 260 local jobs on offer at the Henderson facility, now is the time to ensure WA workers have the skills to access the opportunities in the defence and shipbuilding industries.”