Small steps, big impact: advancing gender diversity in Queensland’s oil and gas industry

Abstract

The Queensland oil and gas sector grapples with an enduring challenge: a lack of gender diversity. Historically a male-dominated industry, outdated norms hinder efforts to attract a diverse talent pool. While large scale policy shifts and corporate mandates may eventually steer the ship, waiting for such monumental movements risks inertia. Meaningful change can also be achieved through small acts of inclusion – the everyday decisions, conversations and choices made within immediate spheres of influence. These seemingly modest gestures can create momentum, shifting the dial towards a more inclusive, equitable industry. In this context, Queensland Women of Wells (QWOW) emerged – a grassroots, volunteer organisation and network advocating for diversity and equity through everyday acts of inclusive leadership. Collaborating across organisational boundaries, QWOW creates safe spaces where women connect, learn, and empower one another, thus working towards an industry where women feel seen, secure and fully equipped to contribute to their careers, teams and the future of the energy sector. QWOW’s focus is on practical steps and responses from the annual survey of the experience of women in the industry, conducted since 2023, provide crucial data to guide affirmative action. Two-thirds of women have felt unsafe at work; three-quarters have encountered discrimination. Yet, remarkably, 91% of respondents maintain faith in the sector, recommending it as a career for other women. This paper delves into QWOW’s journey, survey findings and actionable recommendations for everyone, demonstrating that small acts of inclusion yield immediate impact.