The Territory Labor Government is investing in a new initiative aimed at boosting gender diversity in one of the NT’s most important professions – aviation.

Just 15 per cent of Australian pilots and 1.9 per cent of aircraft engineers are women and demand for both is expected to increase dramatically over the next 20 years as the global aeronautics industry continues its rapid expansion.

Closer to home, on the Northern Territory Skilled Occupation Priority List, pilot is listed as a high priority profession, while aircraft engineers are an industry priority occupation.

This month, the Territory Labor Government is sponsoring Aviation Australia’s Women in Aviation Roadshow, which will visit Darwin and Alice Springs to encourage school girls and women looking for a career change to consider the field.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet successful women in the industry to gain an insight into the profession, to ask questions in a Q&A forum and to obtain information on career pathways, including the vocational education and training available in schools.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Workforce Training, Selena Uibo.

“The Territory Labor Government’s number one priority is jobs for Territorians and we are proud to sponsor Aviation Australia as they work to increase the representation of women in the aviation industry.

“The Northern Territory has, for a very long time now, been dependent on air travel to support a broad range of its industries and we are glad to invest in any initiative that will increase the pool of skilled aviation professionals in the Territory.

“We also want Territorians to be able to know what pathways they can take to ensure they are suitably skilled to step into any role they may aspire to.”

Quotes attributable to Aviation Australia Instructor Emma Mahoney.       

“Aviation Australia believes that diversity in the workplace creates a more productive and innovative environment due to the varied backgrounds and experiences of its team members.

“Women in particular are an asset to any aviation business, they often take a differing approach that can bring new solutions to improving workplace efficiency and capabilities.”

Media contact: Kim Stephens 0417 683 144