The employability of skilled female migrants in the Australian construction industry
Authors: Alkilani Suhair , Loosemore Martin 
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This research examines the employability challenges faced by skilled female migrants in the Australian construction industry, focusing on barriers to employment and their negative impacts on confidence, health and well-being. The paper concludes with recommendations for construction firms and policymakers to improve the employability of these women, offering insights that are applicable internationally.

Design/methodology/approach

Using employability theory, the study draws on semi-structured interviews with 16 skilled female migrants seeking employment in the Australian construction industry. The interviews captured the lived experiences of these women, and thematic analysis was applied to identify key barriers and inform recommendations for construction firms and policymakers.

Findings

The findings provide new conceptual insights into the multiple barriers which female skilled migrants have to overcome in improving their employability in the construction industry. It is also found that these experiences of seeking employment in construction align with the theoretical concept of “contextualized employability” and have potentially profound negative impacts on skilled female migrants’ confidence, hope, health, well-being and family and community relationships. This is despite the Australian construction industry facing a serious labour and skills shortage and being the most gender segregated industry in Australia. The study highlights the need for tailored support, improved industry practices and collaborative efforts from government and private sectors to enhance the employability and integration of skilled female migrants in the construction industry.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited by its focus on the Australian context, which may not be generalisable to other countries with different institutional systems, policies and cultural attitudes towards migrants. The sample size of 16 participants, while providing in-depth insights, may not capture the full diversity of experiences among female skilled migrants. Further research is needed in other countries to compare findings and develop more comprehensive strategies. Despite these limitations, the study’s implications highlight the urgent need for better support systems and industry reforms to improve the employability of skilled female migrants in the construction sector.

Practical implications

Improving the employability of skilled female migrants promotes social integration, mental health and stronger community ties. It challenges gender stereotypes and reduces discrimination in the construction industry, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Practical recommendations include mentorship programs, inclusive recruitment and tailored training. Social procurement policies could set hiring targets for female migrants in the construction industry, while streamlined qualification recognition and tax incentives can encourage hiring. Non-profits and community organisations can support these efforts through mentorship, networking and internships, helping these women build sustainable careers and strengthen workforce diversity. The recommendations aim at enhancing the job prospects and overall well-being of these women while addressing labour shortages in the construction industry.

Originality/value

This study contributes original insights into the under-researched area of skilled female migrants’ employability in the construction industry. It expands employability theory by highlighting the impact of intersecting factors such as gender, migration status and industry-specific barriers on employment outcomes. Its practical recommendations offer pathways for policymakers and industry leaders to improve the integration and employment outcomes of this untapped talent pool.