Business View Oceania - June 2024

across the industry. EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH The AIB’s dedication to education is exemplified by its robust accreditation program and ongoing efforts to engage students and young professionals. The institute offers free first-year memberships to students, encouraging early involvement in the construction industry.“We’ve got about 700 students as members, and we see this as a vital part of our strategy to ensure the industry’s future,” Dart notes. The initiative helps students gain valuable industry insights and fosters a sense of community and belonging within the AIB. In addition to student memberships, the AIB is exploring partnerships with secondary schools to introduce construction-related programs. “We’re developing programs with two girls’ schools in Sydney and two in Melbourne,” Dart shares. The programs aim to provide students with hands-on construction experience and inspire them to consider careers in the industry. By engaging students early, the AIB hopes to cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals passionate about building and construction. GIRLS IN CONSTRUCTION The AIB’s efforts to promote diversity and inclusion extend beyond the Girls in Construction initiative. The institute is committed to creating a more inclusive industry by supporting various initiatives and programs that encourage participation from underrepresented groups. “It’s all very well making statements about how progressive and inclusive you are, but unless you do something, you don’t have the credibility,” Dart remarks. The AIB’s collaboration with the National Association for Women in Construction and other industry bodies underscores its dedication to fostering an inclusive environment. By working together, these organizations aim to break down barriers and create opportunities for women and other underrepresented groups in the construction industry. GREEN BUILDING PRACTICES Sustainability is a core focus for the AIB, and the institute is actively advocating for greener building practices. The construction industry significantly contributes to carbon emissions, and the AIB is determined to lead the charge in reducing the industry’s environmental impact.“If we don’t increase the price of buildings, there’s not enough margin for builders to accommodate for the green movement 17 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 THE AUSTRAL IAN INST I TUTE OF BUI LDING (AIB)