The ETU-led Big Sister Program continues to grow across South Australia and Western Australia, helping more women enter and stay in the electrical trades through training, mentoring and workplace support. New employers are joining the program, giving women apprentices access to experienced mentors and a stronger industry network.
In South Australia, 16 women have begun PEER’s Big Sister Certificate II in Electrotechnology, gaining practical skills and confidence to pursue an electrical apprenticeship. In Western Australia, four women-only Try-a-Trade events were held in July, with most participants giving the experience five stars.
Electrical Group Training has also welcomed its first apprentice intake made up overwhelmingly of women, with 16 women among the cohort of 18. It is a major milestone for the industry and shows what can be achieved when unions, employers and training providers work together to create genuine pathways for women.
Big Sister’s public awareness campaign has reached women across social media, YouTube, TikTok and digital radio, bringing almost 6,000 new users to the program’s website in its first month. Supported by ETU National, CEPUSA and ETU WA, the campaign is connecting more women with electrical training, mentoring and career opportunities.
The mentoring program is building strong communities on both sides of the country, with networking events giving women apprentices the chance to share experiences and support one another. More pre-apprenticeship opportunities are also available in WA throughout 2026, helping the next generation of women take their first step into the trade.
The Big Sister Program is showing what’s possible when unions, training providers and employers work together to break down barriers for women in the trades. The ETU is proud to support the next generation of electrical workers and build a stronger, more inclusive industry.