The Queensland government has announced a $500,000 investment in the Women in Resources: Empowering Development (WIRED) pilot program.
The initiative aims to propel women into high-skilled, site-based roles within Queensland’s critical resources sector.
The funding will enable the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) to lead the WIRED program. The scheme focuses on upskilling and reskilling women to take on advanced roles, such as machinery operators, plant technicians, and site supervisors.
The resources sector is a key sector of the regional economy, contributing over $44 billion and supporting more than 82,000 jobs.
However, the current administration argues that the industry has suffered from a “decade of decline” under the previous government, resulting in acute workforce shortages and a lack of clear pathways for career progression.
Queensland Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates, emphasised that the investment is vital for maintaining the state’s economic momentum.
“We are making sure women have clear, practical pathways into higher-skilled, higher-paid roles on site,” Bates said.
“When you expand opportunities in a $44 billion industry, you strengthen the entire economy.”
The WIRED program is designed to foster long-term career retention. By targeting women already working on-site, the initiative helps them transition into senior technician and leadership positions.
Queensland Resources Council CEO Janette Hewson noted that the program is essential for attracting and retaining exceptional talent.
“Our vision is an industry where women with technical skills have a clear pathway to more senior roles,” she stated, adding that such support creates a more inclusive workplace culture where all employees can thrive.
Early engagement with industry stakeholders has already begun. The pilot program is officially expected to launch in mid-2026.