Making resources sector WISER through greater gender diversity

• Mining companies have lower female board representation than any other industry

• WISER new inclusive industry network of women in renewable energy, mining and energy storage in Queensland

• Organisation looking to advance women on boards and in leadership position within the resources sector

When it comes to the resources sector gender diversity still has some way to progress.

Women in the mining sector were paid 15.1% less than their male peers on a median measure in 2023, according to figures by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency.

PwC research shows that mining companies have lower female board representation than any other major industry in the world.

According to the research the larger the company’s market cap, the more likely there is to be a woman on the board.

But one organisation in Australia is looking to change the representation of women on boards of resources and energy companies, while also providing an environment where every woman working in these industries feels supported.

WISER (Women In Sustainable Energy & Resources) Inc. is a new, inclusive industry network of women in renewable energy, mining, and energy storage in Queensland.

The not-for-profit was established by a group of like-minded women keen to increase representation in the sustainable energy and resources industries.

Co-founder and chair Jo Bergamin told Stockhead WISER’s mission is to support and advocate for women working at the forefront of these transformative industries.

She says from graduates to senior leaders WISER provides opportunities to network, learn, celebrate, and share ideas.

“The committee is comprised of female leaders who are all volunteers from industry, government and higher education.

“At each event, we’re seeing lots of new faces as attendees return, bringing more friends and colleagues. We’re extremely committed to supporting Indigenous and regionally-based women in the sector with our first event held in Townsville and one coming up next month in Mt Isa,” Bergamin says.