Ivan Backman, chairman of the Australian Logistics Council, said the pilot had been very successful and the program will now be made available to women in transport and logistics throughout Australia.

“As a traditionally male-dominated environment, with an estimated 75 per cent of the transport and logistics workforce being men, combined with growing skills shortages, it is vital we as an industry encourage the attraction and retention of women in key roles,” said Backman.

Melinda Buker, ALC program director who managed the women in the 10 week program (largely based in South East Queensland) using 'My Mentor – Challenging Women To Step-up', said that the women had all gained key skills they are now implementing in their workplace – giving them valuable experience to drive their careers forward. 

“Organisations with women who would like to be part of the national rollout can contact the ALC.  All industry organisations are encouraged to get behind this program and to encourage their women to step-up, take the challenge, and drive their careers forward,” said Buker. “In addition, women without prior qualifications or with qualifications older than seven years will be eligible for government funding and receive a TAFE Certificate 4 on completion of this course.”

Women who have more recent qualifications also are eligible to participate.  The ALC will administer the program.