Increasing Diversity across Transport Supply Chain Industries

This project will deliver an analysis to identify current diversity gaps, systemic barriers, and the impact of previous and current initiatives across the Transport Supply Chain.

About the project

Project overview

The Australian Transport Supply Chain is experiencing ongoing skills shortages and low workforce diversity, while some people are still facing systemic barriers to entry and progression. This project will conduct an industry-wide workforce study to map current workforce representation, review existing diversity and inclusion research, and evaluate previous and current initiatives.

Together, this will build a strong evidence base to inform future-focused solutions for a more inclusive industry.

The study will identify skill gaps, participation barriers, and opportunities to strengthen training pathways for underrepresented cohorts. It will support government priorities by informing strategies to build a diverse, future-ready workforce and improve access to inclusive learning and employment pathways.

Why this matters

What it means for industry

Transport Supply Chain industries continue to face workforce shortages and low representation of underrepresented groups, with structural and systemic barriers limiting participation. ISA’s Workforce Plans highlight the need for a clearer understanding of diversity participation challenges across the sector.

This project will provide insight into the current level of representation, examine which past and current initiatives have been effective, and the lessons learned. These insights will help clarify the challenges restricting equitable workforce participation.

By consolidating fragmented efforts and identifying persistent capability gaps, the study will provide the strategic foundation needed to design industry-aligned solutions. This will strengthen workforce resilience and support a more inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready Transport Supply Chain.

Project

What will be delivered

The project will deliver a final report summarising key findings, insights, and evidence-based recommendations to guide Phase 2 activities, which will focus on developing solutions and practical resources.

The report will include:

Evaluation of Existing D&I Research

A detailed analysis of existing Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) research across the

Transport Supply Chain Industries (TSCI).

Consolidated Catalogue of Current D&I Initiatives

A comprehensive listing of current programs, initiatives, tools, and resources across industry, government, and relevant stakeholders, including where they can be accessed and a summary of outcomes achieved.

Definition of Required Employer Skills and Knowledge

A clear set of tools and guidance employers can use to attract, support, and retain underrepresented groups, including:

Where and how to source talent
How to identify and design suitable roles
How to support successful workplace inclusion and retention

We’re undertaking an industry-wide workforce study to better understand workforce diversity, skill needs, and the barriers preventing broader participation across the sector. While skills shortages persist, many underrepresented groups still face challenges entering and progressing in the industry.

By completing this short survey, you’ll help us:

Identify key workforce and skills gaps
Understand barriers to participation and progression
Learn what diversity and inclusion initiatives are making a real impact

Your insights will directly contribute to building a stronger, more inclusive, and future-ready Transport Supply Chain.

Accessibility
If you need assistance completing this survey, please contact Dan Kerr at or 0437 736 035.

Increasing Diversity across Transport Supply Chain Industries

Latest updates

General updates

Diversity & Inclusion Survey