Women in Tech
Australia is undergoing a profound transformation as exponential technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, advanced robotics, and biotechnology redefine industries. However, this digital revolution is exposing a critical challenge: a growing technology skills shortage.
Recent research by RMIT Online and Deloitte Access Economics shows that over one-third of Australian businesses feel their workforce lacks the up-to-date digital skills required for success, particularly in generative AI and digital transformation capabilities. Compounding this challenge, the Australian Computer Society (ACS) estimates that by 2030, Australia will need a staggering 1.3 million tech workers — 100,000 more than the federal government’s current workforce targets.
As technology continues to reshape the economy, addressing this skills gap has become an urgent priority for businesses, government, and the education sector alike.
One of the most promising solutions lies in tapping into an often underutilised talent pool: women in the workforce. While women represent 44% of Australia’s professional workforce, they make up only 30% of the technology sector — a figure that has increased by a mere two percentage points over the past decade.
This slow growth in gender diversity in tech highlights a significant opportunity. The RMIT and Deloitte report identifies more than 661,000 Australian women who could reskill into technology roles within approximately six months through short courses, micro-credentials, or targeted on-the-job training.
Reskilling women not only empowers individuals but also delivers substantial economic benefits. Women transitioning into tech roles can expect an average wage increase of $31,100 per year, representing a 31% boost in earnings. Businesses, in turn, gain an average additional profit of $16,400 per reskilled employee annually. For mid-sized and large companies, this could translate to hundreds of thousands even millions of dollars in increased profitability each year.
The value of diversity in technology teams is well-documented. Diverse teams are proven to foster better collaboration, stimulate creativity, and drive innovation. At CDM, we’ve witnessed firsthand how gender-diverse teams deliver stronger business outcomes, especially when tackling complex technology challenges.
However, attracting women into tech is only part of the solution. Retaining and advancing women within the sector remains a critical hurdle. Research indicates that over half of the women who enter technology roles leave the industry before the age of 35. This attrition is often driven by systemic issues such as:
Limited opportunities for career progression
Bias in promotion and leadership selection processes
Rigid and inflexible work policies that fail to support work-life balance
Non-inclusive workplace cultures that can marginalise women
To truly close the gender gap in technology, businesses must go beyond hiring initiatives. It is essential to create an environment where women can thrive long-term. This requires intentional strategies that promote inclusion, equity, and flexibility. Key steps include:
Implementing mentorship and sponsorship programs to support women’s career development
Reviewing and updating promotion and leadership pathways to eliminate bias
Offering flexible work arrangements that accommodate diverse life circumstances
Cultivating a workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and belonging
By investing in both skills development and culture change, organisations can reduce turnover, retain top talent, and build high-performing tech teams.
Addressing Australia’s digital skills shortage requires a coordinated approach involving government, education providers, and industry leaders. While current initiatives provide a foundation, more targeted programs are needed to:
Expand access to reskilling and upskilling courses that are affordable and tailored to diverse learners
Create pathways that combine training with mentorship, networking, and work experience
Foster ongoing lifelong learning opportunities that help workers adapt as technologies evolve
Governments also play a vital role in setting policies that promote gender equity and support workforce development in emerging technology sectors.
At CDM, we understand that technology is only as powerful as the people behind it. We’re committed to supporting the growth of a skilled, inclusive technology workforce in Australia. Through partnerships, consulting, and tailored training programs, we help businesses build diverse teams that can meet the demands of today’s fast-changing digital landscape.
As more than 84% of Australian businesses adopt advanced technologies like AI and automation, equipping workers with future-ready digital skills has never been more important. Reskilling women into tech roles is not just a social imperative, it’s a strategic business opportunity that will help power Australia’s economic growth for decades to come.
This article was inspired by insights from TheAustralian.com.au and research conducted by RMIT Online and Deloitte Access Economics.
