Networks in Action— Driving Connection, Capability and Advocacy

CCF Victoria’s member Networks continue to play an important role in connecting industry professionals, sharing practical knowledge, and shaping advocacy priorities. As 2026 gets underway, our Safety and Women’s Network Advisory Committees have already met to set direction and progress key initiatives — with more activity to come across the broader Network program.

 Safety Network

The Safety Network Advisory Committee reconvened in February with a focus on strengthening member-led collaboration and capability building across the industry. The group reaffirmed its role as a forum for open discussion, peer learning, and collective insight into regulatory expectations and emerging risks.

Key priorities for 2026 include trialling a series of virtual safety webinars to improve accessibility and participation. Proposed topics currently under review include trenching compliance, mobile plant operating zones, traffic management, asphalting equipment safety, working at heights, and operational innovation. The committee is also exploring opportunities to align sessions with existing industry events and external stakeholders.

Broader discussions highlighted industry challenges requiring advocacy, including the need to recognise civil apprenticeships and the complexity and cost associated with traffic management training requirements. Members are also committed to sharing practical resources and guidance materials to support continuous improvement across organisations.

The committee has adopted a monthly meeting cadence to maintain momentum and continues to encourage participation through CivilHQ and member surveys to ensure industry voices inform future initiatives.

 Women’s Network

The Women’s Network Advisory Group held its first meeting of the year, setting a positive and collaborative tone while reaffirming its purpose as a platform for advocacy, connection and professional support for women in civil construction.

Early discussions focused on refining the Network’s remit to complement other construction-sector groups and on identifying opportunities for collaboration rather than duplication. The committee also revisited ongoing initiatives, including engagement with secondary students through programs such as TradesFit Expo, and planning for accessible networking and development events.

To better understand current challenges and opportunities, the group is developing a survey to capture industry insights on barriers, leadership pathways, visibility, and work-life balance considerations. These findings will inform priorities for events, webinars, and learning opportunities throughout the year.

Additional initiatives underway include collecting and sharing personal stories from women across the industry, exploring regional and online engagement formats, and beginning planning for a Women in Civil networking event later in 2026. The committee will meet monthly to maintain progress and expand participation.

Looking Ahead

The HR Network Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet later this month to continue work on workforce-related priorities and industry support initiatives.

In response to strong member interest, CCF Victoria is also preparing to launch new Networks focused on Traffic and Circular Economy, further expanding opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and sector leadership.

Through these Networks, members directly contribute to practical solutions, capability development, and industry advocacy, reinforcing the value of collective engagement across the civil construction community.

Members interested in getting involved in any Network are encouraged to contact the CCF Victoria team at Membership@ccfvic.com.au or Member Services Officer, Juanita Farrington at jfarrington@ccfvic.com.au or 0455 110 655.

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