New TEACHO-funded research has identified the barriers keeping women out of Australia’s trucking workforce and lays down a roadmap for change.
Launched at Australian Parliament House today, the report titled Women in Trucking: Perceptions, Contributions and Experiences of Truck Drivers in Australia examines the experiences of women truck drivers, the challenges they face and what needs to change to attract and retain more women in the industry.
Drawing on a national survey of 489 truck drivers, both male and female, interviews with female drivers and industry representatives, as well as field observations, the research identifies a clear gap between the industry’s willingness to acknowledge opportunities for women and the reality of their workplace experiences.
While 86 per cent of survey respondents agreed that opportunities exist for women in trucking, only 72 per cent agreed that women are genuinely welcome.
Respondents in the research describe a “blokey” culture that is resistant to change, where women are invisible, must continually prove themselves, and are frequently exposed to sexism, discrimination, and sexual harassment.
Despite these challenges, the report identifies five key strengths women contribute to the industry: attention to detail, careful equipment maintenance, strong communication, empathy and patience, and a positive influence on workplace culture.
According to TEACHO Chair, Paul Ryan, “Recruiting more women into trucking is important, but that is not enough. We need to drive cultural improvements, which foster long-term change, to keep women in the industry. This should be seen as a key element in the productivity and sustainability of our supply chains.”
TEACHO Director Emeritus Professor Michael Quinlan adds, “This report is significant in terms of academic research as well as policy application is such a critical area.”
The report’s recommendations include national workforce participation targets, stronger oversight of workplace harassment, consistent reporting and accountability mechanisms, improved rest-area facilities, and mentoring and training pathways for women entering the sector.
The findings also reinforce the importance of practical support, accessible licensing and upskilling opportunities, and greater flexibility in job design to accommodate workers’ responsibilities outside work.
“We are proud to have partnered with UNSW Canberra on this project,” said TEACHO CEO, Simon Earle. “It provides us with honest insights into attitudes, workplace culture, and safety. And most importantly, it lays out how we can make improvements at all levels to boost the participation of women to strengthen our industry.”
TEACHO Ltd. is an industry-led, Australian not-for-profit organisation committed to advancing health, safety and productivity within the transport and logistics sector.
For a copy of the Report, click here.
ENDS
Press Contacts:
TEACHO Ltd. Simon Earle 0409 655 973
UNSW – Dr Catherine Deen | c.deen@unsw.edu.au