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Introduction
Women have been steadily increasing their presence in the NSW mining industry over the past decade, though they remain underrepresented compared to their male counterparts. As of 2022, women comprised approximately 20% of the Australian mining workforce, with a slightly higher representation in NSW. This marks a significant improvement from earlier years when female participation was even lower.
Despite this progress, women continue to face challenges in achieving gender parity, particularly in leadership roles. Nationally, women only account for 6.7% of CEO positions in the mining sector – a significant contrast to the national average of 19.4% across all industries. In NSW, the gender pay gap in mining is also notable, with women earning 23% less than their male counterparts in managerial positions (Source: im-mining.com).
Atlantech Senior Environmental Consultant Hannah Lumsden on site with previous Atlantech Consultant Samantha O'Sullivan.
A catalyst for change in the mining industry
Efforts to address these disparities are ongoing. Initiatives such as the NSW Women in Mining Network and the annual Women in Mining Awards aim to celebrate and support the contributions of women in the sector. While challenges persist, the increasing visibility and support for women in mining signal a positive trend toward greater gender equity in the industry.
The mining industry has long been perceived as a male-dominated field, but organisations like the AusIMM Women in Mining Network NSW (WIMnet NSW) are transforming this narrative. Atlantech senior environmental consultant Hannah Lumsden has enjoyed working alongside WIMnet NSW as a member of the Hunter branch committee. Hannah has witnessed firsthand the profound positive impact this network has on supporting and empowering all women in the mining sector.
Efforts to improve gender diversity in the mining industry are ongoing. For example, BHP has increased its female workforce participation from 16% in 2016 to 35% and aims for a gender-balanced 50/50 workforce by 2025.
Additionally, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) reported a 1.6 percentage point reduction in the gender pay gap within the mining sector over the past year.
(Sources: www.news.com.au, www.wgea.gov.au, www.mining.com.au, www.australianmining.com.au)
Women in Supervisor roles at Glencore’s Ravensworth operation
Key initiatives and programs
WIMnet NSW is a volunteer-run initiative of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within the New South Wales minerals industry. The network's objectives are clear: to support, nurture, promote, connect, and empower women working in or with the NSW minerals industry. Importantly, membership is open to everyone, regardless of gender, fostering an inclusive environment that benefits the entire industry.
WIMnet NSW offers a range of initiatives designed to support women at various stages of their careers:
- Networking events: Regular events in Sydney and mining regions such as the Hunter Valley, Illawarra, and Central West provide opportunities for professionals to connect, share experiences, and build relationships.
- Professional development: Workshops and seminars focus on skill enhancement, leadership development, and career progression, equipping women with the tools needed to excel in the mining industry.
- Mentoring programs: Pairing emerging professionals with experienced mentors helps guide career development, offering advice, support, and encouragement.
- Advocacy and recognition: WIMnet NSW actively advocates for gender diversity and inclusion, celebrating achievements through awards and recognition programs. Women in Mining NSW Network
2025 Women in Mining NSW Mentoring Program Launch event. Source: Women In Mining NSW: Posts | LinkedIn
The positive impact on women in mining
The support system provided by WIMnet NSW has led to tangible benefits for women in the mining industry:
- Increased representation: Initiatives have contributed to a rise in the number of women entering and advancing in the mining sector.
- Enhanced career opportunities: Access to networking and professional development programs has opened doors for women, leading to career advancement and leadership roles.
- Improved work environment: The focus on diversity and inclusion has fostered a more supportive and collaborative workplace culture.
- Empowerment and confidence: Mentoring and advocacy have empowered women to take on new challenges, voice their ideas, and lead initiatives.
Atlantech First Year Environmental Graduate Sarah De Wet excited to log in to a mine site and get to work
Personal reflections and looking ahead
Being involved with WIMnet NSW as a Hunter Branch committee member, Hannah has seen the network's positive influence on individuals and the industry. The commitment to fostering an inclusive environment has not only benefited herself and fellow women but it has also significantly enhanced the mining sector by bringing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to the forefront.
Hannah says: “The journey towards a more inclusive mining industry is ongoing, and we all play a pivotal role in this transformation. By supporting and empowering women, we can all help to shape a future where diversity is celebrated, and all professionals have the opportunity to thrive.”
Atlantech Senior Consultant Hannah Lumsden representing WIMNet Hunter branch committee at a recent careers expo event in Singleton