The cleaning sector has long been an industry with a male skew at the management level. Despite this, women are continuing to make up a significant portion of the global cleaning workforce, often performing roles that are essential yet not given adequate appreciation. According to industry leaders, their contributions extend beyond operational tasks to include insights into customer satisfaction, workplace hygiene and environmental sustainability. Yet, until recently, these voices went largely unheard in decision-making contexts.

Women have long been the backbone of the industry, ensuring operations run smoothly while managing workforce challenges and evolving customer needs. Despite their contributions, representation in upper management positions has historically lagged. This gap illustrates the challenges women face while advancing their careers in an industry that has traditionally been male-led.

However, a new chapter is unfolding with more women ascending to leadership roles, inspiring others to follow. Organisations recognise that by empowering women to lead, a more inclusive and effective workplace may result. “The cleaning industry is welcoming gender diversity and inclusivity, with organisations actively taking steps to break down the barriers to women’s advancement,” Logic Business Resources CEO Lorraine Rogic says.

RISING THROUGH THE RANKS

Female cleaning business owners in Australia have become role models for others in the industry. Their journeys highlight the importance of mentorship, resilience and a willingness to embrace change. By forging their respective paths, they not only build thriving enterprises but also inspire other women to take on leadership roles within their organisations.

A growing number of companies are adopting leadership styles that emphasise empathy and collaboration as they navigate a changing and adapting workplace.

This approach is transforming company culture, encouraging employee retention and fostering community-driven business practices. Such shifts not only benefit companies but also redefine industry standards, proving that diverse leadership teams drive innovation and progress. This approach is transforming workplace cultures, encouraging employee retention and fostering community-driven business practices. Such shifts not only benefit companies but also redefine industry standards, proving that women’s leadership drives innovation and progress.

The female-led approach

Diverse management often brings distinct strengths to the cleaning industry. They tend to champion diversity in hiring, invest in training and prioritise sustainable practices – efforts that enhance both workplace culture and client satisfaction. Rogic says women are also influencing company policy, fighting for a more inclusive work environment and achieving higher employee satisfaction and retention. “These achievements are paving the way for the future and changing the narrative about women in leadership roles,” Rogic says.

Research from womensagenda.com.au suggests that women-led teams excel in problem-solving, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Their ability to adapt quickly and lead with empathy has reinforced the need for inclusive leadership to ensure long-term resilience. Female managers are often better equipped to understand the challenges faced by their predominantly female workforce, making them more effective in creating solutions that address those needs.

In addition, female leaders in the cleaning industry are driving sustainable innovation. Many women-led businesses prioritise environmentally friendly practices, including the use of green cleaning products and waste reduction strategies. These efforts align with growing consumer demand for eco-conscious services and contribute to the industry’s broader sustainability goals.

Overcoming barriers to inclusion

Despite progress, challenges remain. Many women in the cleaning industry still face limited access to mentorship, unequal pay and gender biases that hinder career advancement. Organisations and policymakers must address these barriers to sustain momentum and ensure that the industry continues to evolve.

Rogic says the first step toward meaningful solutions is understanding these barriers. “Gender biases and stereotypes about women’s ability to lead persist and can impact their

progression. Many women must break through perceptions that define their role and abilities,” Rogic says.

The Royal Society for Public Health has been vocal about the need for targeted policies to support women in this sector. Initiatives like leadership training programs, wage equity campaigns and workplace flexibility are critical steps in the right direction. Industry associations are also playing a pivotal role in these efforts, providing platforms for women to network, share knowledge and advocate for meaningful change.

For example, women in cleaning initiatives such as the ISSA Hygieia network, have been instrumental in highlighting female contributions to the sector. Through events, mentorship programs and policy advocacy, this initiative is helping to break down barriers and create new opportunities for women across all levels of the industry. Similar efforts are being replicated globally, underscoring the importance of collective action in driving progress.

Laying the foundation for success

Education and skills development are crucial for empowering women to take on leadership roles in the cleaning industry. Many organisations now offer specialised training programs to help women build the technical and managerial skills needed to excel in their careers. These programs often focus on areas like team management, operational efficiency and emerging technologies such as automated cleaning systems. 

“Mentorship programs provide women with invaluable advice and professional direction via direct access to experienced industry professionals,” Rogic adds. “These connections are essential for professional growth and frequently result in enhanced self-assurance and the management of intricate workplace dynamics.”

By equipping women with the tools they need to succeed, these initiatives are creating a pipeline of future leaders. They demonstrate a commitment to fostering a culture of growth and development, benefitting both employees and employers.

A vision for the future

As more women rise to management positions in the cleaning and hygiene sector, the industry is becoming a beacon of opportunity and innovation, but the journey is far from over.

“The road to gender inclusivity in management roles in the Australian cleaning industry is one that has come a long way but still has its challenges ahead, from rising female representation to reimagining workplace cultures,” Rogic explains. As trailblazers

pave the way for a more equitable and dynamic future, the cleaning industry’s transformation reflects broader societal progress where inclusivity and empowerment are more than mere aspirations but tangible realities.

Women in management are proving that leadership is not just about climbing corporate ladders, it’s about lifting others along the way. Through resilience, creativity and vision, they are setting new benchmarks for success in the sector to ensure the industry is cleaner – not just in hygiene but in opportunity and representation.