Construction Training Fund (CTF) is pleased to announce that we have been recognised for our commitment to creating and advocating for inclusion and equality in the workplace at the national 2025 Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Awards, held in Brisbane.
CTF is leading the charge for change and increased diversity
The ‘Diversity in Development’ Award recognises our continued efforts to enhance the representation of women, First Nations people and people from diverse backgrounds in the construction industry, and the success we’ve had.
Our CEO, Tiffany Allen, acknowledged the instrumental role we play in supporting WA’s construction industry, saying: “The CTF isn’t just calling for change — it’s leading it.
“Through funding, partnerships and policy, CTF is creating real pathways into the industry for people from all backgrounds.”
This award recognises our efforts in making gender equity a key focus for the Western Australian construction industry. And we lead by example, with women making up over half of CTF’s workforce internally across all levels.
There has also been a significant increase in the number of women participating in CTF-supported apprenticeships and traineeships, rising from 511 (4.38% of the total cohort) in 2016 to 1,022 (7.56% of the total cohort) in 2024. Despite the increase, the disparity remains a challenge, as research shows diverse perspectives are vital for successful projects, and that gender equity benefits the industry’s bottom line.
Apprentice funding
We’ve initiated and implemented numerous programs to help bring more women into the construction industry, including offering a $5,000 scholarship to 50 female apprentices entering the industry.
It’s not just gender diversity we’re championing; we are also working hard to open the construction industry up to everyone, with a focus on encouraging and supporting mature apprentices, as well as those who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders.
We also understand that it costs employers to hire and train new apprentices, which is why we increased the additional Employer Grant bonus available to employers hiring female and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices, providing up to $36,500 in funding support across an apprenticeship.
And for young Indigenous men, our partnership with the Clontarf Foundation is opening doors through site visits, mentoring programs, and the provision of Certificate II in Construction qualifications.
Tiffany is committed to continuing the work needed to make long-lasting change.
“These initiatives and our continued advocacy are starting to have an impact. It’s slow progress — but we’re heading in the right direction.”
Workforce culture and diversity strategy
With progress and inclusion at the heart of our strategy, we are developing a comprehensive Workforce Culture and Diversity Strategy to guide future programs and help small to medium businesses access this untapped pipeline of skilled workers. Our strategy includes practical tools and frameworks to help businesses foster inclusive, future-ready workplaces.
Minister for Skills and TAFE, Hon Amber-Jade Sanderson BA MLA, said: “The Construction Training Fund is committed to building a safe, skilled, and sustainable construction workforce for Western Australia, with diversity being crucial to the long-term growth and success of the State’s construction industry.
“This national award recognises the dedication of the entire CTF team in championing diversity within the industry and our own workplace. This Government looks forward to continuing to collaborate with industry partners to create a safe, skilled, and sustainable construction industry for all.”
How CTF can help you
If you’re interested in a job in construction or would like to know about funding available as an apprentice or an employer, contact us to learn about ways into the industry. There are a number of pathways and school-based traineeships available, as well as other routes and financial support available through CTF.
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