Trends in the nature of work for women in the food and fibre sector

From the 2018 census, we found some interesting patterns about the nature of how women work in the food and fibre sector. We look forward to soon exploring whether these patterns have continued once this detail is available from the 2023 census. 

Women the untapped potential 

Women in the food and fibre sector bring strong formal qualifications, yet are often concentrated in lower-skilled, lower-paid, or unpaid roles. These trends suggest there is an opportunity to better align women's skills with higher-value roles, unlocking both individual potential and building sector capability. 

A qualified workforce 

A greater proportion of women across Muka Tangata industries hold formal qualifications compared to men—21% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher compared to 12% of men. Only 15% of women have no formal qualification, versus 23% of men. 

Less skilled roles despite higher qualifications 

Even with higher qualifications, only 37% of women work in the highest skilled roles, like farmers or veterinarians, compared to 46% of men. More women (35%) are in the lower skilled roles like farm assistants or sales assistants, verses 27% for men. 

Lower incomes reflect lower skill levels and hours 

Women have lower annual earnings than men. Nearly one in three (30%) women earn $20,000 or less, double the proportion of men (16%). Just 11% of women earn $70,000, compared to 20% of men—likely reflecting the types of roles and part-time work arrangements. 

Part-time and unpaid work more common for women 

Significantly more women work part-time than men (39% vs 14%), reflecting different work patterns across the sexes.  Women are also twice as likely to work as unpaid family members, with rates as high in 29% within Sheep, Beef and Deer—well above the national average of 1% across all sectors. 

Age patterns vary across industries

The Veterinary industry has the youngest female workforce, with nearly one third (31%) aged 20–29. Within roles such as Veterinary Nurse, which is almost entirely women, over 60% are young. In contrast, around half of women in many farming industries, especially Arable, Pork, Poultry and Other Livestock, and Sheep, Beef and Deer farming, are aged 50 and over   —again reflecting the owner-operator nature of farming.

You can explore further the nature of how women work in the occupations found within Muka Tangata industries on our Occupational dashboard.