Women Shaping the Future of the Energy Sector
This March, Law Squared’s Energy + Infrastructure team hosted a series of Women in Energy events in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney — bringing together 70+ remarkable women driving change across the sector.
Through panel discussions and networking lunches, we heard personal stories, shared career insights and created space for honest, constructive conversations about leadership, setbacks, and what’s still needed to create a truly inclusive energy industry.
Beyond Symbolic Gestures
While the conversation around gender in energy is growing — including through intergovernmental bodies like the Clean Energy Ministerial and International Energy Agency (IEA), women remain underrepresented across the sector. According to the IEA, only 20 per cent of the energy workforce globally is female. In vocational roles such as electricians, the number drops below three per cent.
The message from our panellists was clear: equity in energy requires more than policy. It demands systems that enable women to thrive across all levels and disciplines — from vocational training to executive leadership — and a workplace culture that values the full spectrum of leadership styles.
Warmth, Wisdom and a Bit of Cold Rock
Led by our own women-powered Energy + Infrastructure team — Sarah Ward, Alissa Dai, Natasha Ozolins-Stubbs and Joanna Brand — each event created a space for warmth, honesty, humour and connection.
We heard stories of unexpected pathways into the energy industry — from first jobs at Hungry Jacks and Cold Rock – to career setbacks, planned hiatuses and overlooked promotions, through to reflections on what helped each woman persist and rise in her career.
We’re grateful to all our guest panellists across the series — Judith Tosh – Deputy General Counsel, AusNet, Nadia Barboulas – Principal, The Polished Presenter, Gemma Claase - Head of Energy Transition, Howden Insurance, Teresa Howard, Head of Legal – Powerlink Queensland, and Erin Coldham – Chief Development Officer, Southerly Ten, and Emma Wanchap – Senior Lawyer & Risk Advisor — as well as members of our team, for sharing so generously.
11 Insights that Bear Repeating
Here are some of the insights that stood out for us:
1. Focus on What Comes Next
Many energy companies are now achieving gender parity at the graduate level — but struggle to retain and promote women beyond that. Building support frameworks for the mid-career stage is essential.
“Don’t attach your self-worth to outcomes. Celebrate the wins, learn from the setbacks, and keep moving forward.”
2. Barriers Are Sometimes Physical
Even with the best intentions, workplaces can be inaccessible by design. One panellist shared that site equipment was too large for many female frames, and another noted the lack of basic facilities like female toilets on job sites.
"Infrastructure has to work for everyone — and that starts with thoughtful design."
3. Value Vocational Pathways
Half of all roles in the energy sector require vocational training — but these are the least gender-diverse areas.
“We need more women in hands-on roles — and that starts with exposure, encouragement, and access.”
4. Bounce Back from Professional Heartbreak
From missed promotions to career detours, most of our panellists acknowledged career setbacks at some stage. But those moments can be powerful turning points.
“I stopped asking ‘why didn’t I get it?’ and started asking ‘what can I learn?’ That mindset shift changed everything,” shared Teresa Howard who offered these tips for building resilience:
Seek feedback - it’s your growth roadmap.
Reflect on your goals - do they still align with your values?
Focus on the ‘what’ - not just the ‘why’.
Build your crew - mentors, allies, and women who have your back
5. Self-Awareness Is a Superpower
Focus on how you manage yourself, not just others. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want — and don’t make challenges personal.
“Women lead with warmth, humility, pride, and impact. Don’t hide your strengths — lead with them.”
6. Work-Life Balance Still Needs Work
The industry still struggles with flexibility — but it's improving.
“I joined Law Squared at 8 months pregnant. It wasn’t an issue. I came back when I was ready and felt supported the whole way,” reflected Sarah Ward, Energy + Infrastructure team lead, on her start with the firm.
7. Sort Your Finances
Financial independence gives you the freedom to choose your path — and walk away from places and people that don’t align with your values.
"Working with a financial advisor is one of the most valuable investments you can make in yourself and your future.
8. Lead Like a Woman
It’s time to stop fitting into outdated leadership moulds.
“Let’s bring intuition, warmth, compassion, creativity and communication to the fore — and redefine what leadership looks like,” said professional communicator and coach, Nadia Bourboulas.
9. Care for Your Whole Self
Wellbeing isn’t just about breathwork and buddha bowls. It’s about designing systems that support women at every life stage — including pregnancy, parenting, peri-menopause and beyond.
“What support looks like will change. Make space for that.”
10. Nurture Your Network
Women who support women change industries. Sometimes, that support looks like a big cheer. Sometimes, it’s a quiet endorsement.
11. And Finally - Don’t Be a Dickhead
Simple. Timeless. Worth repeating.
Stay Connected
This was just the beginning. We’ll be hosting more Women in Energy events and creating more opportunities to connect and grow.
Want to be on the list? Drop us a note here and we’ll make sure you’re invited to the next one.
In the meantime, if you need legal support for ad hoc or project-based energy work, our Energy + Infrastructure team is here to help. Let’s keep driving the future of energy — together.