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The complex diversity in Australian manufacturing: why DEI strategies are a challenge

Akash Hettiarachchi et al.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion2026https://doi.org/10.1108/edi-09-2024-0415article
AJG 2ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

Purpose Manufacturing is critical to sovereign capability and global economic competitiveness in any country. This paper analyses the current state of workforce diversity across various sub-sectors of Australian manufacturing. The findings enhance the understanding of diversity at the sub-sector level and highlight the complexities among sub-sectors, providing insights for future researchers, policy makers and HR strategy developers. Design/methodology/approach This study analyses Australian census data from 2006 to 2021 for a comparative analysis of workforce trends in gender, generation, ethnicity, disability and educational qualifications in Australian manufacturing and manufacturing sub-sectors. Findings The study highlights significant differences in workforce diversity across manufacturing sub-sectors, emphasising the need for targeted, sub-sector-specific Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policies and strategies under Industry 4.0. It argues that sector-wide strategies are insufficient, advocating for tailored interventions to address unique DEI challenges in sub-sectors and the importance of addressing specific skill challenges associated with technological advancements in each sub-sector. Originality/value The study findings underscore the importance of diversity strategies for retaining the older workforce in certain sub-sectors, attracting younger generations to specific industries, achieving gender balance beyond merely increasing women’s participation in manufacturing and ensuring meaningful ethnic representation across sub-sectors.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/edi-09-2024-0415

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@article{akash2026,
  title        = {{The complex diversity in Australian manufacturing: why DEI strategies are a challenge}},
  author       = {Akash Hettiarachchi et al.},
  journal      = {Equality, Diversity and Inclusion},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/edi-09-2024-0415},
}

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The complex diversity in Australian manufacturing: why DEI strategies are a challenge

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

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