ACCIONA has kicked off a groundbreaking pre-employment initiative for the HumeLink East transmission project, following a grant from the NSW Government’s Women In Construction Industry Innovation Program.

The "EmPOWERing Regional Women" program aims to increase female participation in the construction industry, with a specific focus on the Yass regional area.

ACCIONA and GenusPlus Project Director for HumeLink East Carel Nagel said: "This program represents a significant step towards diversifying our workforce and creating opportunities for regional women.

“By providing valuable skills, mentorship, and a supportive environment, we're not just filling roles – we're building career pathways and strengthening our industry.

“We’ve designed this program from the ground up to meet the needs of regional women and make it easier for participants to balance training with family commitments. That includes operating three days a week during school terms and within school hours.”

EmPOWERing Regional Women will provide nationally recognised and fully accredited training for 17 women in the Yass area, equipping them with valuable skills for the construction industry.

A key component of the initiative is the program’s structured mentoring program, designed to support the retention of women in construction roles. This will be complemented by resume writing and interview skills workshops, preparing participants for future job applications.

Additionally, a Health and Wellbeing Program will be implemented to foster an inclusive workplace environment for all workers.

Successful completion of the program will prepare participants for a range of job opportunities on HumeLink East, and equip participants with nationally recognised training, tickets, and essential work experience.

For more information about the EmPOWERing Regional Women program and upcoming information sessions, visit [ACCIONA Website].

HumeLink is a vital link in the National Electricity Market, which will reinforce and support the critical southern network of NSW and Victoria and provide access to cleaner and cheaper renewable energy to families and businesses.

HumeLink East involves the expansion of the existing Bannaby 500kV substation, along with the design and construction of a new 500kV double circuit transmission line. This new transmission line will connect the Bannaby 500kV substation at the Wondalga interface point with HumeLink West.