Women in Mining, Industry Norms, and Rural Patriarchy: A Perfect Storm

Abstract

Rural industries are historically male‐dominated with women commonly out‐migrating to metropolitan areas in search of work opportunities. Rural industries, such as mining, have the potential to recruit women from rural areas, offering employment, training, and income prospects and to contribute positively to rural women's economic and employment success. However, this potential is unrealized because of unsafe and sexist workplaces. This paper reports the findings of a survey completed by women working in trade occupations in the Australian mining industry. Findings indicate that the combination of pervasive patriarchal, masculine norms in rural areas, a sexist mining industry, and ubiquitous challenges in male‐dominated workplaces combine to create a “perfect storm” of barriers for women in mining trades. We conclude that a more coordinated approach from governments and the mining industry in implementing and managing gender equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives is required to support women in the industry.