In a world first, an all-women tunnel boring machine (TBM) crew will help build Victoria’s Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East twin tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley – with Expressions of Interest now open for the project.
Minister for Suburban Rail Loop, Danny Pearson, today joined national and international experts at the Victorian Tunnelling Centre, to outline the training, recruitment and development program for the all-women crew.
“This is an example of the incredible opportunities a project like Suburban Rail Loop can deliver – an all-female tunnelling crew is a global first that will break down barriers and create new pathways for women,” said Minister Pearson.
“Suburban Rail Loop will not only transform our public transport network, but it will create a long pipeline of jobs and opportunity for all Victorians.”
SRL East Tunnels South Construction Manager, Isolde Piet, will lead the highly-skilled crew of 25, which include a TBM operator, gantry and segment crane operators and support roles.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be a part of this incredible project and this history-making initiative, which I hope will encourage many more women to join the industry,” said Ms Piet.
The once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is open to young women looking to start their careers or wanting to change industries.
At least 10% of total labour hours on the tunnels will be worked by women – with tunneling to start in 2026 and trains taking passengers by 2035.
“Our all-female led TBM crew is a world first and will encourage more women to take part in our thriving construction industry,” said Minister for Women, Natalie Hutchins.
The first stage of the SRL will deliver six new underground stations between Cheltenham and Box Hill.
Expressions of Interest to be part of the all-female TBM crew, and other roles on this city-shaping project, can be registered at suburbanrailloop.vic.gov.au/jobs.
