Building Equality Policy: shaping a fairer future in construction
At ICN Victoria, we’re championing a bold new era for the construction sector - one where gender equality drives culture, performance, and opportunity across every worksite.
The Building Equality Policy (BEP) is your roadmap for embedding real, measurable change in your business and unlocking broader social value for our industry.
What is the Building Equality Policy?
The BEP sets out clear requirements for Victorian Government-funded construction projects worth $20 million and above. It’s designed to generate meaningful work and training opportunities for women by breaking down outdated stereotypes and fostering inclusive workplaces.
As a supplier or contractor, meeting BEP targets isn’t just about compliance; it’s about futureproofing your business, building stronger teams, and growing your reputation as an industry leader.
Key actions for suppliers
If you’re tendering for a BEP project, here’s what you need to know:
- Meet project-specific gender equality targets: 3% trade labour, 7% non-trade labour, and 35% management roles performed by women. It’s about real numbers and real impact, giving women genuine visibility across every aspect of construction.
- Engage and support women as apprentices, trainees, and cadets: At least 4% of total labour hours must be allocated to women in these pathways, building tomorrow’s diverse and skilled workforce.
- Deliver Gender Equality Action Plans (GEAPs): These are your business’s blueprint for change. Every tender requires a workplace gender audit, an organisation-wide GEAP, and a project-specific GEAP.
Why it matters
By embracing the BEP, your business:
- Strengthens bidding power for major contracts.
- Improves workplace culture and productivity.
- Champions social impact and sustainable growth.
- Positions your brand at the forefront of a more inclusive construction industry.
We’re more than just policy advisers. We’re active partners in your equality journey. From practical training to tailored contract guidance, ICN Victoria connects you to the right knowledge, tools, and networks to deliver on BEP and thrive commercially.