Forklift Driving: A Great Career for Women

As a school leaver between 18 and 24, you’re probably thinking about your next move. There’s so much pressure to find the “right” career, and maybe traditional paths like retail or office work don’t sound exciting to you. What if I told you there’s a practical, well-paying career you might not have considered—forklift driving?

Is forklift driving a good career for women? Sure is.

Forklift driving is no longer just a guy’s game. Industries like logistics, warehousing, and retail are evolving, and employers are actively seeking more women to join the workforce. In fact, women are thriving as forklift operators, proving that this job isn’t about brute strength—it’s about precision, skill, and attention to detail.

Why choose forklift driving? For one, it offers excellent pay. Forklift operators in Sydney can earn upwards of $28 an hour, and because forklifts are used across so many industries, there’s no shortage of job opportunities. You can work in warehousing, construction, or even at a retail distribution center—wherever products need to be moved.

Forklift driving also offers job security. Companies are always on the lookout for licensed operators, which means you’ll be in demand. Plus, the physical and hands-on nature of the work is incredibly empowering, allowing you to work independently and build practical skills.

What It’s Like to Be a Woman in Forklift Driving

It’s totally normal to feel a bit unsure about entering a field that’s traditionally been dominated by men, but that’s changing. Women all over Sydney—and Australia—are making their mark as forklift operators, and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Employers are realizing that women bring a lot to the table in terms of focus, safety, and organization.

A great example is Emily, a 21-year-old from Western Sydney, who completed her forklift training just last year. “At first, I was nervous, but the course was so welcoming, and there were a few other women there, too. Now I’m working full-time at a warehouse, and I love it! I get to drive forklifts, work with a great team, and make good money.”

Don’t Underestimate Forklift Driving

Don’t think for a second that this job is all about heavy lifting. Forklifts are designed to do the hard work for you! Your job is to operate the equipment safely and efficiently, which requires skill and focus, not muscle.

Many companies in Sydney are actively encouraging women to pursue careers in forklift driving. If you’re thinking about joining the workforce in a role that’s practical, dynamic, and offers great pay, forklift driving could be perfect for you. Is forklift driving a good career for women?

How to Get Started – Forklift Courses in Sydney

Step 1: Find a Course Provider

The first thing you’ll need to do is find a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in Sydney that offers forklift training. It’s important to choose a course that’s accredited by SafeWork NSW, so your license is recognized by employers. Make sure to book with Australian Forklift Training!

We deliver training for the nationally recognised units:

TLILIC0003– Licence to operate a forklift truck
TLILIC0004– Licence to operate an order picking forklift truck

Step 2: What to Expect in Forklift Training

Forklift training courses are designed to be quick and effective. Over 2 days, you’ll cover everything you need to know to operate a forklift safely. The training is a mix of theory and practical hands-on experience. Don’t worry if you’ve never touched a forklift before—the instructors will guide you through each step.

Step 3: Costs and Support

A forklift training course with Australian Forklift Training is just $375 per person, but don’t let that scare you off! AFT offers payment plans to make it easier for young people to afford.

Step 4: Course Duration

You won’t be stuck in a classroom for days—forklift training is short and flexible. Most courses can be completed in just 2 days. You’ll start with online learning at home covering safety protocols and regulations. Then you’ll move on to the practical side, where you’ll learn to drive a forklift under supervision. By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to take your assessment and earn your license. Is forklift driving a good career for women? Yes.

Book your forklift training at our Blacktown or Moorebank centre

How a Forklift License Can Boost Your Career

Once you have your forklift license, your job options will skyrocket. Forklifts are used in industries like warehousing, logistics, construction, and retail—all of which are always in need of licensed operators. Whether you’re interested in working for a major retailer, a construction company, or a logistics hub, a forklift license will make you stand out from other job seekers.

“Great trainers and guide you through the whole process. They teach you everything you need to know about forklifts and would recommend them to anyone thinking of getting their forklift license.”

Plus, having a practical skill like forklift operation will set you apart. While many school leavers head into retail or office roles, you’ll have a specialized qualification that employers are actively looking for. And the best part? You’re not limited to just driving forklifts—many forklift operators go on to become warehouse managers or logistics coordinators, roles that offer even higher pay and responsibility. Is forklift driving a good career for women? 100%.

What are the requirements to obtain a forklift license?

Women in Transport & Logistics in NSW — Breaking the Gender Barrier

While Australia’s transport, postal, and warehousing industries remain 88% male-dominated, women are steadily making inroads — now representing approximately 27.4% of the national transport workforce. In NSW, which mirrors these trends, increasing female participation is not just about equity — it’s essential to filling a growing skills shortage and reshaping the sector’s future. Is forklift driving a good career for women? Yes and will be into the future.

Low Representation, High Potential

In NSW and Australia-wide, women occupy just 4.5% of CEO-level roles in transport and logistics Rod Barton. Their presence at senior levels significantly lags behind the overall workforce representation, reinforcing a historical “boys’ club” perception that many women face when considering careers in the sector.

The Push for Change

National and state-level initiatives — like the Wayfinder Supply Chain Careers for Women and National Women in Transport — aim to break down entry and progression barriers. These programs address everything from workplace culture to unconscious bias, promoting targeted training, scholarships, and mentoring to boost retention and leadership opportunities.

Organizations such as Transport Women Australia have supported over 240 women with transport scholarships since the 1990s. In recent years, the focus has shifted towards secondary schools and career expos to inspire the next generation. With this kind of support, you can stop wondering is forklift driving a good career for women.

Economic Imperative

Transport is the third most male-dominated sector in Australia, after construction and mining. With freight demands rising and a projected 14% shortfall in driver roles, attracting and training women is not just socially responsible — it’s an economic necessity couriermail.com.au.

Voices of Change

Industry leaders highlight how increasing female participation has driven innovation in logistics. As Michael Byrne, former CEO of Toll and Linfox, notes: “Female participation has changed our industry,” resulting in more responsive supply chains and diverse shift patterns.

Beyond the Numbers

As barriers such as stereotyping, workplace environment, and lack of role models are challenged, more women are taking up roles as operators, supervisors, and managers — enriching the industry with empathy, problem-solving, and communication strength.

Women Driving Change in Transport & Logistics Across NSW

The transport and logistics sector in New South Wales is evolving rapidly — and women are playing a growing role in this transformation. While the industry has traditionally been male-dominated, forward-thinking organisations, RTOs, and government initiatives are breaking down the barriers that once kept women out of the driver’s seat — literally and figuratively.

Skills-Based Entry: No Experience Required

One of the most empowering developments is the accessibility of nationally accredited training. In NSW, women can enrol in practical, job-ready programs such as the TLILIC0003 – Licence to Operate a Forklift Truck without prior experience or a job offer. This means women looking to upskill, change careers, or re-enter the workforce after a break can gain the qualifications needed to start work immediately.

Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) like Aus Forklift Training, with centres in Blacktown and Moorebank, are helping create safe, inclusive learning environments. These centres offer blended learning models, flexible course times, and support for learners with different literacy levels, making forklift training more accessible to women across Western Sydney.

Demand for Female Operators is Rising

The Australian Industry and Skills Committee reports that transport and logistics jobs are expected to grow steadily — especially in warehousing, road freight, and supply chain support. Employers are increasingly seeking diverse teams to improve communication, safety, and customer service outcomes.

In NSW, employers who hire qualified female forklift operators may also benefit from state-based incentives or diversity initiatives, particularly in the construction and warehousing sectors. Many job seekers don’t realise that obtaining a forklift licence opens doors across industries — including retail distribution, manufacturing, import/export, and local council depots.

Building Confidence Through Training

Women who complete forklift training often cite increased confidence, job-readiness, and independence as key outcomes. Practical training not only improves safety awareness but also builds technical skills that can lead to supervisory or logistics management roles. Some RTOs offer refresher courses or flexible re-sit options, helping women feel supported every step of the way.

Conclusion

There’s no reason why forklift driving should be seen as a man’s job. Women all over Sydney are proving that they have what it takes to succeed in this field—and you can, too. Forklift driving offers great pay, job security, and a sense of independence that’s hard to find in other entry-level jobs. Is forklift driving a good career for women? Yes!

If you’re a young woman wondering is forklift driving a good career for women and looking for a career that’s practical, empowering, and full of opportunities, forklift training could be your next step. Why not take the leap and see where it leads? Is forklift driving a good career for women? 100%.

What Is the Difference Between LF and LO Forklift Licence?

Is forklift driving a good career for women? Yes it is.

Author:

Simone Rennocks, MA in Analytical Psychology, Certificate IV in Training & Assessment, BA in Fine Arts

Last updated: 29 July 2025

Simone is the founder and lead trainer at Aus Forklift Training, a Registered Training Organisation (RTO ID: 91037) delivering accredited forklift licensing and vocational training in Sydney.

Locations: Blacktown – 1/3-5 Tattersall Road | Moorebank – 7/30 Heathcote Road

Phone: 02 8814 8640 | Contact us: https://ausforklifttraining.com.au/contact-us 

View our LF Forklift Licence Course → https://ausforklifttraining.com.au/forklift-licence-course