CONCLUSION

While some progress with respect to anti-discrimination based on sexual orientation has been made in Australia (e.g., legalised same-sex marriage), it is unclear to what extent, if any, these structural changes and localised efforts have contributed to creating a more inclusive workplace for LGBTQ+ employees in the stubbornly male-dominated construction sector. This research illustrates the importance of work being a safe place for LGBTQ+ people. Although most participants in this study felt that workplace attitudes were changing and there was a positive trajectory overall, many noted that the construction sector was coming off a very low base and it still has some way to go in respecting LGBTQ+ people’s human rights. Despite efforts by some construction companies to address inclusivity of LGBTQ+ workers, homophobia, bullying and harassment still continues often in full view of bystanders and leaders. Ongoing action, ownership and leadership is needed from government and businesses engaged in the construction sector to recalibrate industry behaviours and value the engagement of all workers in the construction sector.

While this report focused on documenting the experiences of LGBTQ+ construction workers from across Australia, it is evident that more research is needed. Future studies could quantify the number or LGBTQ+ people working in the Australian construction sector, specifically mapping where they work and their professions. An evaluation of the effectiveness of policy interventions by business and government to support the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people could also be undertaken.