Foreshore Park playspace to become flagship destination for inclusive recreation

Construction will begin this year on Newcastle’s first purpose-built inclusive playspace and waterplay area should councillors award a tender for the Foreshore Park project on Tuesday evening.

The regional-level playground has been developed following more than five years of input from the community and the Touched by Olivia Foundation, a charity dedicated to the creation of inclusive playspaces across Australia.

An artist's impression of the waterplay area, which is part of the inclusive Foreshore Park playground project.An artist’s impression of the waterplay area, which is part of the inclusive Foreshore Park playground project.

It was designed in accordance with the NSW Government’s Everyone Can Play guidelines and will promote intergenerational, inclusive play, with opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities.

“Quality community spaces play a significant role in enhancing the lives of people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities,” Cr Pull said.

“When completed, this will be by far one of the best facilities in our city, and I am very proud that our city is in a position to deliver such a fantastic project. 

“This will create a flagship inclusive playspace that will become a thriving hub for intergenerational community building, positively supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of residents and visitors.”

Councillor Declan Clausen, who has submitted two notices of motion to Council this term supporting the delivery of the Foreshore Park playspace, said it would be a valued community facility. 

“City of Newcastle has been engaging with the community since 2020 to create a shared vision for the Foreshore Park precinct, to ensure it meets the needs and expectations as our premier regional park, for all Newcastle residents, workers and visitors to enjoy,” Cr Clausen said.

“We are committed to creating accessible and inclusive public spaces, ensuring high-quality playgrounds and park facilities are available to all Novocastrians.”

The playspace is the centrepiece of the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan and will be located at the western end of Foreshore Park.

It will have four separate zones including junior and toddler areas, water and nature-based play areas and quiet spaces, connected via accessible paths, seating, shade, gardens and lawns.

Bespoke playground equipment will add to its distinctly Newcastle character, including a central whale-themed swing and picnic area paying tribute to the city’s Worimi and Awabakal heritage.

The waterplay area will be linked to Newcastle’s maritime history and coastal ecologies, while an elevated “nuts and bolts” play structure will symbolise Newcastle’s strong industrial ties and include an accessible ramp to the first level of the tower.

An accessible slide, sandpit, carousel and sensory pathway are among the other key features of the inclusive design. Navigation through the space will be made easier with a logical and accessible path of travel, while charging points for wheelchairs and mobility devices are also included.

Final detailed designs will be completed by the successful tenderer before construction kicks off later in the year. 

Justine Perkins, Founder of Touched by Olivia, and Livvi’s Mum, said play is important and beneficial for everyone. 

“Creating (play)spaces that are fun, safe, welcoming and enjoyable by children, youth and adults alike, is what we are about,” Ms Perkins said.

“This Livvi’s Place design is truly inclusive and intergenerational and has a wonderful connection to place. 

“The nuts and bolts play tower features ramps and graduated stairs so all children and adults can join in the fun on the upper play decks, the incredible pathways and accessible routes for fun and adventure throughout, and the multitude of challenge and choice, will ensure there are many, many play hours for us all at Foreshore Park. 

“The design is subtle and seamless and shows how creative inclusive design can be. 

“City of Newcastle has been a fantastic partner. They have been committed to really listening to the children, youth and community and ensuring co-creation from the start. 

“This playspace is a testament to their understanding that we all want to and need to be able to get outdoors and play together, with others, in our community to ensure we live happier, healthier lives.”

Access Inclusion Advisory Committee Co-Chair Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk said the Foreshore Park playspace will contribute to an even more liveable, sustainable and inclusive Newcastle.

“The playspace project is a wonderful example of collaboration between City of Newcastle, our community and Touched by Olivia,” Cr Adamczyk said.

“Accessibility considerations have been incorporated into all aspects of the design, from the way users navigate through and interact with the space, to the choice and layout of the equipment and the inclusion of quiet areas to cater for everyone.

“The playspace and water play area will transform the Harbour Foreshore into an even more inviting recreational space that is inclusive and accessible for all members of the community, enabling children and youth of all abilities and ages to play side by side.”

Newcastle mother Amanda Robertson, who is also a community representative on City of Newcastle’s Access Inclusion Standing Committee, said her family was excited about the playspace. 

“As a family, we struggle to find safe accessible spaces for our twins who have a disability to play, explore and connect with the community,” Ms Robertson said.

“Not only will this playspace provide a unique opportunity for our children, and other children with disabilities, to enjoy playing outside, it’s also a step towards creating a more inclusive community. We are excited and grateful to have this opportunity available to us.”

The playspace will be complemented by a fully accessible amenities building and kiosk, which is currently under construction in Foreshore Park. It includes unisex ambulant toilets, a parent’s change room, and a Changing Places facility.

The Foreshore Park projects are supported by the NSW Government, Variety the Children’s Charity, the Touched by Olivia Foundation and the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.

Newcastle creators invited to help shape new collection

Library lover and illustrator Laura Baker is being given the chance to combine her passions as part of a call for community contributions to a dedicated “zine” zone at Newcastle Libraries.

The 20-year-old TAFE student, who is completing a diploma of Library and Information Services, is among the first local zine-makers to have their work included within the new collection, which will be officially launched at the City branch next month.

City of Newcastle Innovative Collection Developer Emma Callaghan sits alongside James Turvey and Laura Baker with their zines to be featured in the new collection at Newcastle City Library.City of Newcastle Innovative Collection Developer Emma Callaghan sits alongside James Turvey and Laura Baker with their zines to be featured in the new collection at Newcastle City Library.

Zines are a type of small, self-published booklet or magazine often used as an outlet for personal expression, art, ideas or written stories, with no limitations on creativity or subject matter.

City of Newcastle’s Director Museum Archive Libraries and Learning, Julie Baird, said the new collection reinforces Newcastle Libraries’ role as a hub for self-expression and a custodian of cultural history.

“Zines have played a vital role in Newcastle’s youth, art, music and skate scenes for over 40 years, offering a uniquely liberating platform for creatives to express their ideas freely, outside the constraints of traditional publishing,” Ms Baird said.

“This collection is a significant statement of time and history, preserving voices, images and stories of our community for future generations. We invite zine makers, both local and from afar, to contribute their work and take part in archiving a piece of Newcastle’s cultural heritage.”

Library worker and archivist James Turvey, who has been making zines since he was 14 and working in libraries for over a decade, is passionate about documenting and preserving local stories that might otherwise be lost. 

The 42-year-old sees his contribution to the collection as his way of giving back to the community, showcasing the local skate scene while also making independent publishing more accessible. 

“Zines are a snapshot of a moment in time, whether it’s personal, political, or creative. They capture voices, ideas, and movements that don’t always make it into mainstream history,” Mr Turvey said. 

“Making creative work from within the community accessible is really important and having this space at Newcastle City Library will expose people to zines that might not otherwise have come across them.”

For emerging creators like Ms Baker, who started making zines two years ago, the collection offers a valuable opportunity to share their work and inspire others to explore the medium. 

“What I love about zines is the variety, some have poems, illustrations, comics, collages, photography or short fiction, and others are just unique. You can really do anything, and that’s what makes them so exciting,” she said.

“It’s a really accessible format and anyone can make them, all you need is a piece of paper and an idea. 

“I want to keep telling stories, it’s something I enjoy putting out into the world and I’m excited to share my work through this collection.” 

Creators interested in submitting their work to the collection can drop their donations at Newcastle City Library before Saturday, 5 April, when a special event will be held to officially launch of the zine collection.

The event will feature a mini zine market, a hands-on zine-making workshop and a panel discussion led by James Turvey. The discussion will feature acclaimed zine-makers Vanessa Berry, Nina Katzmarski, and Bastian Fox, who will chat about zine culture, collaboration, and community.

Visit the Newcastle Libraires website to find out more information about the zine collection.

Council update: Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 25 March 2025

Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 25 March 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions. 

Lord Mayoral Minutes  

Five years on from COVID-19

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported that acknowledged the work of City of Newcastle staff during the pandemic to continue delivering essential services throughout shutdown periods and acknowledged the work, commitment and dedication of emergency services and health and care workers in our local region.

Newcastle Maritime Museum Society

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported that notes the CEO has confirmed his intention to write to Venues NSW seeking they waive the rent for the Newcastle Maritime Museum Society (NMMS) for a period of 12 months and seeks clarification on the relationship between the Lord Mayor and members of the committee, including any financial contributions to his election campaign. It also refers this matter to Davidson for consideration as part of the Davidson Review, noting the presence of conflicts of interest, the expenditure of ratepayers’ funds, and that the review is yet to be finalised and is set to be reported to Council in April 2025.

Supporting community safety in Beaumont Street

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported that resolved to hold a workshop for all councillors to explore further strategies to reduce antisocial behaviour in Beaumont Street, Hamilton and continue working with State Government agencies and representatives to develop future plans to improve the street.

Ordinary business

Tender report – Design and construction Foreshore Park playspaces

Council voted to accept a tender for design and construction of the Foreshore Park play space, which will be an inclusive, community hub for intergenerational community building, and will be of a quality and scale that is commensurate with the role of the park and its importance to the city and the region.

Tender report – Carnley Avenue and Orchardtown Road traffic control signals

Council voted unanimously to accept a tender for installation of Orchardtown Road/Carnley Avenue traffic control signals and related civil works as part of the completion of the Blackbutt Village Local Centre upgrade.

Endorsement of Motions for Submissions to the 2025 National General Assembly and nomination of voting delegate

Council voted unanimously to nominate Councillor Winney-Baartz as City of Newcastle’s voting delegate at the Australian Local Government Association’s 2025 National General Assembly.

Adoption of the Newcastle Affordable Housing Scheme

Council voted to endorse finalising the statutory proposal to amend the Newcastle Local Environmental Plan 2012 to give effect to the Newcastle Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme, allowing City of Newcastle to impose conditions of consent on development applications for certain developments to levy affordable housing contributions.

Broadmeadow Place Strategy

Council voted unanimously to adopt the Broadmeadow Place Strategy and request that the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces issue a Ministerial Direction under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 to give the Place Strategy legal effect.

Notices of Motion

Recognising transgender day of visibility

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion to recognise and acknowledge International Transgender Day on 31 March each year to show our support for Newcastle’s transgender and gender diverse community.

Foreshore Park playspace to become flagship destination for inclusive recreation

Construction will begin this year on Newcastle’s first purpose-built inclusive playspace and waterplay area should councillors award a tender for the Foreshore Park project on Tuesday evening.

The regional-level playground has been developed following more than five years of input from the community and the Touched by Olivia Foundation, a charity dedicated to the creation of inclusive playspaces across Australia.

An artist's impression of the waterplay area, which is part of the inclusive Foreshore Park playground project.An artist’s impression of the waterplay area, which is part of the inclusive Foreshore Park playground project.

It was designed in accordance with the NSW Government’s Everyone Can Play guidelines and will promote intergenerational, inclusive play, with opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities.

“Quality community spaces play a significant role in enhancing the lives of people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities,” Cr Pull said.

“When completed, this will be by far one of the best facilities in our city, and I am very proud that our city is in a position to deliver such a fantastic project. 

“This will create a flagship inclusive playspace that will become a thriving hub for intergenerational community building, positively supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of residents and visitors.”

Councillor Declan Clausen, who has submitted two notices of motion to Council this term supporting the delivery of the Foreshore Park playspace, said it would be a valued community facility. 

“City of Newcastle has been engaging with the community since 2020 to create a shared vision for the Foreshore Park precinct, to ensure it meets the needs and expectations as our premier regional park, for all Newcastle residents, workers and visitors to enjoy,” Cr Clausen said.

“We are committed to creating accessible and inclusive public spaces, ensuring high-quality playgrounds and park facilities are available to all Novocastrians.”

The playspace is the centrepiece of the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan and will be located at the western end of Foreshore Park.

It will have four separate zones including junior and toddler areas, water and nature-based play areas and quiet spaces, connected via accessible paths, seating, shade, gardens and lawns.

Bespoke playground equipment will add to its distinctly Newcastle character, including a central whale-themed swing and picnic area paying tribute to the city’s Worimi and Awabakal heritage.

The waterplay area will be linked to Newcastle’s maritime history and coastal ecologies, while an elevated “nuts and bolts” play structure will symbolise Newcastle’s strong industrial ties and include an accessible ramp to the first level of the tower.

An accessible slide, sandpit, carousel and sensory pathway are among the other key features of the inclusive design. Navigation through the space will be made easier with a logical and accessible path of travel, while charging points for wheelchairs and mobility devices are also included.

Final detailed designs will be completed by the successful tenderer before construction kicks off later in the year. 

Justine Perkins, Founder of Touched by Olivia, and Livvi’s Mum, said play is important and beneficial for everyone. 

“Creating (play)spaces that are fun, safe, welcoming and enjoyable by children, youth and adults alike, is what we are about,” Ms Perkins said.

“This Livvi’s Place design is truly inclusive and intergenerational and has a wonderful connection to place. 

“The nuts and bolts play tower features ramps and graduated stairs so all children and adults can join in the fun on the upper play decks, the incredible pathways and accessible routes for fun and adventure throughout, and the multitude of challenge and choice, will ensure there are many, many play hours for us all at Foreshore Park. 

“The design is subtle and seamless and shows how creative inclusive design can be. 

“City of Newcastle has been a fantastic partner. They have been committed to really listening to the children, youth and community and ensuring co-creation from the start. 

“This playspace is a testament to their understanding that we all want to and need to be able to get outdoors and play together, with others, in our community to ensure we live happier, healthier lives.”

Access Inclusion Advisory Committee Co-Chair Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk said the Foreshore Park playspace will contribute to an even more liveable, sustainable and inclusive Newcastle.

“The playspace project is a wonderful example of collaboration between City of Newcastle, our community and Touched by Olivia,” Cr Adamczyk said.

“Accessibility considerations have been incorporated into all aspects of the design, from the way users navigate through and interact with the space, to the choice and layout of the equipment and the inclusion of quiet areas to cater for everyone.

“The playspace and water play area will transform the Harbour Foreshore into an even more inviting recreational space that is inclusive and accessible for all members of the community, enabling children and youth of all abilities and ages to play side by side.”

Newcastle mother Amanda Robertson, who is also a community representative on City of Newcastle’s Access Inclusion Standing Committee, said her family was excited about the playspace. 

“As a family, we struggle to find safe accessible spaces for our twins who have a disability to play, explore and connect with the community,” Ms Robertson said.

“Not only will this playspace provide a unique opportunity for our children, and other children with disabilities, to enjoy playing outside, it’s also a step towards creating a more inclusive community. We are excited and grateful to have this opportunity available to us.”

The playspace will be complemented by a fully accessible amenities building and kiosk, which is currently under construction in Foreshore Park. It includes unisex ambulant toilets, a parent’s change room, and a Changing Places facility.

The Foreshore Park projects are supported by the NSW Government, Variety the Children’s Charity, the Touched by Olivia Foundation and the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.

Man charged with domestic violence offences after police operation – Mayfield

A man has been charged with domestic violence and kidnapping offences after a police operation in Newcastle.

About 10.50am today (Sunday 23 March 2024), emergency services were called to a unit complex on Woodbine Street, Mayfield, following reports of a domestic violence incident.

On arrival, police were told a 66-year-old woman had been assaulted by a man known to her.

Police attempted to arrest a 30-year-old man, who allegedly threatened police and refused to leave the unit.

Specialist tactical police, NSW Ambulance paramedics, and Fire and Rescue NSW attended to assist in the operation.

The man exited the unit and was arrested without further incident at about 5.15pm.

He was taken to Newcastle Police Station and charged with four offences:

  • Hinder/resist law enforcement officer in execution of duty
  • Destroy or damage property – DV
  • Contravene prohibition/restriction in AVO – DV
  • Kidnap with intent to commit serious indictable offence, occasioning actual bodily harm – DV

He was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court tomorrow (Monday 24 March 2025).

Shared vision for Broadmeadow reaches new milestone

A once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of Broadmeadow will reach a milestone next week, with Councillors to vote on the adoption of a 30-year strategy for the 313-hectare precinct. 

The Broadmeadow Place Strategy is a key planning document that sets a blueprint for the renewal of this area.  

It will enable the creation of up to 15,000 jobs and 20,000 homes for 40,000 people, while retaining Broadmeadow as the region’s premier sport and entertainment destination. 

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Planning and Environment, Michelle Bisson, said the Broadmeadow Place Strategy presented a unique opportunity to help set the vision and guide where key infrastructure and services should be located. 

“The NSW Government has been working in partnership with City of Newcastle to develop the Place Strategy. We are the only Council in NSW involved in such a partnership, ensuring early input into the strategic planning for the renewal of the Broadmeadow precinct,” Ms Bisson said. 

“The Place Strategy provides a blueprint for how the area will change over time, particularly for areas where significant population growth is expected.  

“Detailed technical investigations were carried out to inform precinct planning, while extensive feedback was also sought from the community including the public exhibition, which attracted more than 300 submissions. 

“The Place Strategy seeks to balance the needs of housing, employment and public spaces to establish a vibrant place.”  

The Broadmeadow Place Strategy was developed in response to the NSW Government’s Rezoning Pathways Program, which identified Broadmeadow as one of 10 precincts to significantly contribute to housing supply across NSW.  

Once the Place Strategy is adopted, a Delivery Plan will be prepared for the precinct in collaboration with a range of NSW Government agencies and City of Newcastle.  

This plan will investigate the roles and responsibilities required to deliver the outcomes identified in the Place Strategy including delivery of State and regional infrastructure. 

City of Newcastle is also currently developing a Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan in line with the Broadmeadow Place Strategy. This will outline the rate levied on new developments to contribute toward the cost of local community infrastructure needed to support new residents and growth in this precinct, such as roads, footpaths, sporting facilities, parks and playgrounds. 

Ms Bisson said an integrated, collaborative approach was required to fund and deliver the community infrastructure needed to support the future development.  

“The precinct population growth will significantly contribute to NSW housing targets, however significant infrastructure will be needed to support this growth,” Ms Bisson said. 

“This will require collaboration between multiple levels of government agencies and delivery partners, across the 30-year lifespan of the project.”

City of Newcastle overcomes language barriers to keep beachgoers safe in the surf

A rise in beach rescues among non-English speaking residents and visitors has prompted City of Newcastle to provide translations of vital water safety information.

The messaging is now available in nine different languages, aiming to better inform people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds about the dangers of swimming at our beaches and ocean baths.

City of Newcastle's Chris Griffin joins Francisco Carreno and Huu Quoc Viet Bui at Nobbys Beach to learn about the new translations of vital water safety information into their first languages of Spanish and Vietnamese.City of Newcastle’s Chris Griffin joins Francisco Carreno and Huu Quoc Viet Bui at Nobbys Beach to learn about the new translations of vital water safety information into their first languages of Spanish and Vietnamese.City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Community and Recreation Lynn Duffy said studies have shown people who were born overseas represent a disproportionately high number of drowning deaths in Australia.

“As a vibrant, coastal city set alongside six stunning beaches, Newcastle has become an attractive destination for international tourists, while also being home to a thriving, multicultural community with diverse backgrounds and experiences,” Ms Duffy said.

“Heading to the beach is way of life for most Novocastrians, but it’s important to be aware of the risks presented by the ocean and what we can do to minimise them, especially for people who might not have had many experiences in this kind of environment

“Royal Life Saving’s 10-year research study showed that one in three people who drown in Australia are born overseas, with most migrant drownings occurring within their first five years of moving to Australia.

“Our multilingual safety information will help ensure everyone can enjoy our beautiful coastline safely, making our wonderful lifestyle more accessible to those for whom English is not their first language.”

Beachgoers can scan QR codes that have been installed on every City of Newcastle water safety sign from Merewether to Stockton Beach and at Merewether and Newcastle Ocean Baths.

The code takes users to a webpage to view beach safety advice such as swim between the flags, as well as interpretations of signs including high surf and strong currents, which have been translated into Japanese, traditional and simplified Chinese, Arabic, Vietnamese, Spanish, Punjabi, Dari and Swahili.

City of Newcastle’s Aquatic Operations and Education Specialist Chris Griffin said a range of factors led to the roll out of the multilingual safety information.

“Our lifeguards noticed an increase in rescues involving people who didn’t speak English and weren’t familiar with the risks of going to the beach,” Mr Griffin said.

“During our annual Water Safety Education Program, which reaches more than 13,000 children across Newcastle, we also received feedback from migrant families who said they’d like the information to be available in their first language. We’ve had similar feedback from international students at the University of Newcastle regarding beach safety signs.

“We spoke to other Councils about how they’ve developed similar programs and consulted with community planners at City of Newcastle who work with new citizens, to help determine which languages would provide the most benefit.

“We’ll monitor the QR codes to learn which languages are being used the most to see if there’s more we can do within those communities. We’re also hoping to add even more languages in the future.”

Vietnamese TAFE student Huu Quoc Viet Bui said safety messages in multiple languages will help prevent accidents by ensuring international visitors understand important warnings and guidelines.

“I am a beach lover so I cannot live without it. It is one of the places I come after my classes. It makes me feel relaxed having some fresh air after a busy day,” Mr Bui said.

“There are some different things between beaches in Newcastle and Vietnam such as facilities, culture and marine life.

“There are dangers we need to know about at the beaches as a visitor here such as strong waves and hidden hazards.”

The translated guides can be found here:

https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/explore/beaches/beach-safety

Motorcyclist dies in crash – Greta

A motorcyclist has died following a single-vehicle crash in the Hunter Valley region.

About 4.45pm today (Wednesday 19 March 2025), emergency services were called to Camp Road, Greta, following reports of a single vehicle crash.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District were told a motorcycle has lost control before it crashed into a tree and the rider was ejected.

The rider – a man believed to be in his 30s – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics however, he could not be revived.

The body is yet to be formally identified.

There were no other injuries reported due to this incident.

A crime scene has been established and the motorcycle was seized to be forensically examined.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

As inquiries continue, anyone with information about this incident or a dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Safe Places for Faith Community Grant for Charlestown

Charlestown Eastlakes Presbyterian Church has received $10,000 in funding as part of the NSW Government’s Safe Places for Faith Communities Grants.
The funding boost will be used to improve security on site and make it easier for church members to access the building.
The Government has allocated $15 million over four years to this program, as part of its election commitment in 2023. Grants range from $5,000 up to $250,000.
Grant funding supports:

upgrading security and surveillance systems

training for staff and religious leaders to improve preparedness and risk mitigation

building the resilience of faith groups.
For more information on the grants, go to https://multicultural.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Safe-Places-for-Faith-Communities-Project-Grants-Guidelines-close-9-Jan-25.pdf
Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:
“I’m proud that the NSW Government is delivering on its commitment to improve safety at places where faith communities get together.
“This funding will assist faith communities to maintain and improve the security of their places of worship so they can continue to be places of guidance and peace for attendees.”
Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison said:
“Charlestown Eastlakes Presbyterian Church has been an important part of the social fabric here in Charlestown for a long time.
“It’s important communities can come together safely to practice and maintain their faith. The program is focused on building community resilience through prevention, preparedness, response and recovery measures.
“The NSW Government is getting behind our faith organisations to support upgrades and other projects that will make the religious experience safer.”

Women in trades: Newcastle apprentice leads the charge

Women make up just 11.4% of Australia’s trade apprentices, but role models like Newcastle welding apprentice Emily Frazer are changing the game in male-dominated industries.

When an apprenticeship at Kurri Kurri Gas Plant came up, she jumped at the chance.

“I’ve always admired the skill that goes into welding, especially when I see those smooth, flawless welds; they just look incredible. My goal is to someday create welds that look that good. It’s exciting to be on this path and work toward mastering a skill I’ve always been passionate about.”

Women represent less than 1% of Australia’s welding and fabrication sector, but Emily is determined to flip the script.

“Welding has traditionally been a male-dominated field, and I noticed there weren’t many women represented. That made me even more determined to make my mark,” Frazer said.

“I love every moment of it—the skill, the precision, the satisfaction of creating something lasting.”

Apprenticeship Support Australia mentors Emily, helping her manage exam stress, navigate off-the-job training, and access financial incentives.

Jeffrey Cooke, Apprenticeship Support Australia Regional Manager for NSW North, said: “As a Women in Trades specialist, we are contracted by the Australian Government to provide mentorship to female apprentices to help them complete their apprenticeships. Women identify poor working conditions as the main reason they drop out of their apprenticeships, so we also work closely with employers to help them build safe, respectful, and productive workplaces for female apprentices.”

Mr Cooke said increasing female participation in the trades was key to tackling skill shortages and driving diversity and innovation in Australia’s workforce.

For assistance in hiring apprentices or trainees contact Apprenticeship Support Australia on 1300 363 831 or visit apprenticeshipsupport.com.au