Could women solve Australia’s truckie shortage?

Key points

• A new UNSW Canberra study led by Dr Catherine Deen says workplace culture, safety concerns and inflexible working conditions limit women from joining Australia's truck driver workforce. Women make up just 6% of truck drivers and 4% of heavy vehicle drivers.
• The research, based on a national survey of more than 480 drivers, found that 70% of respondents believed female drivers were likely to face sexual harassment. The researchers recommend national workforce targets for women, better licensing access and stronger safety reporting.
• They warn that recruitment without retention is a revolving door.