“A Place Where Women Build, Belong and Thrive”: Minister for Women Visits Canberra’s Women’s Shed
Minister for Women and ACT Senator, Katy Gallagher. Photo: Elise Searson Prakaash.
Canberra, Australia — Along the frosty banks of Lake Tuggeranong, the rhythmic buzz of a power sander cuts through the morning stillness. Clad in fluorescent safety vests, three women are engrossed in their work. One leans over a sanding machine, meticulously smoothing a piece of timber balanced on a plastic table, while the others share smiles and quiet conversation.
Scenes like this—women confidently handling tools and engaging in hands-on projects—were once uncommon. However, at the Women’s Shed Canberra, such images are becoming increasingly familiar, reflecting a broader shift in societal norms.
This transformation aligns with evolving attitudes toward gender roles in Australia. According to the 2025 Gender Compass report by Plan International Australia, 62% of Australians believe that men have more opportunities than women to earn the main household income. Yet, 62% also agree that everyone benefits when women have equal access to rights, opportunities, and outcomes as men. plan.org.au
Initiatives like the Women’s Shed Canberra not only equip women with practical skills but also foster a sense of community and empowerment, challenging traditional norms and promoting inclusivity in shared spaces.
A Growing Hub for Women
Women’s Shed members enjoying the the sun while working on their projects. Photo: Elise Searson Prakaash.
Founded in 2020 by Sunita Kotnala and Robby McGarvey, the Women’s Shed Canberra began as a modest venture operating out of a small space in Griffith. Kotnala’s vision was clear: to create a safe and supportive environment where women could learn practical skills and build community connections.
That vision has flourished. Earlier this year, the Women’s Shed secured a permanent home at the WAVE Centre in Greenway. It now offers workshops in skills ranging from carpentry and home maintenance to creative projects, providing women with hands-on experience and confidence in fields traditionally dominated by men.
Minister for Women and ACT Senator, Katy Gallagher and Women’s Shed Canberra CEO, Sunita Kotnala Photo: Elise Searson Prakaash.
Sunita Kotnala’s tireless work led to her being named Canberra Citizen of the Year in 2025, recognised for her efforts in empowering women and breaking down barriers. Under her leadership, the Shed has become a place not only for learning but for friendship, mental health support, and community resilience.
“When women learn how to handle tools, fix things in their homes, or take on new projects, they gain independence,” Kotnala has said previously. “But they also discover how capable they are—and how much they can support one another.”
Minister’s First Visit
This week marked the federal Minister for Women’s first visit to the Women’s Shed Canberra, following an invitation from Kotnala after her Citizen of the Year honour.
“I’ve been to the Men’s Shed down here before, but this is my first time visiting the Women’s Shed,” the Minister said, standing amidst the women in high-vis vests. “I wasn’t sure what I would find when I came down here, but it’s fantastic. It’s very similar to the Men’s Sheds—a place for people to gather, chat, learn new skills, and create things. Women are often the glue that knits communities together, so it’s no surprise there’s a bunch of dynamic women behind this.”
Minister for Women and ACT Senator, Katy Gallagher and Women’s Shed Canberra CEO, Sunita Kotnala Photo: Elise Searson Prakaash.
Beyond learning practical skills, the Minister highlighted the broader significance of the shed’s work. “One of the biggest problems in our labour market is the gender-segregated nature of our employment base,” she said. “Industries like construction and trades are still overwhelmingly male. Normalising women gaining skills in these areas has huge potential.”
Minister for Women and ACT Senator, Katy Gallagher. Photo: Elise Searson Prakaash.
She also spoke passionately about the role sheds like this can play in helping women who’ve experienced domestic or family violence. “For women who’ve been isolated or controlled, being able to come here, feel safe, try new things, and connect with people who care is incredibly powerful,” she said.
Funding and Future Vision
Women’s Shed member restores her grandfathers lamp stand. Photo: Elise Searson Prakaash.
When asked about potential funding support, the Minister noted she was eager to explore how federal programs might assist the Women’s Shed, in partnership with the ACT Government.
“I’m definitely keen to look at what I can do to help,” she said. “Traditionally, this kind of community initiative might be funded by state governments, but as Minister for Women, I’m interested in how our programs could support reducing gender segregation in the workforce and helping women affected by violence. And as a proud Canberran, I know how many generous individuals and businesses might want to partner with a place like this.”
Empowerment in Action
Women and the tradie gather for a photo with the Minister. Photo: Elise Searson Prakaash.
Back outside by the lake, the winter air carries the soft hum of sanding machines and the sound of laughter. Inside the shed, cups of warm tea are being made while homemade date muffins are being adding to the safe and homely vibe. It’s a reminder that the Women’s Shed is far more than just a workshop—it’s a place where women build skills, friendships, and futures.
For Sunita Kotnala and the women of the shed, it’s all about creating a space where every woman feels she belongs.
“It’s about practical skills, yes,” Kotnala has said. “But it’s also about belonging, friendship, and discovering that you’re capable of things you never thought possible.”
Women’s Shed member discusses her woodwork project with the Minister and Sunita. Photo: Elise Searson Prakaash.
Under rows of neatly organised tools and shelves filled with timber offcuts, jars of screws, and woodworking planes a quiet revolution is unfolding.
With the support of community leaders and the determination of its members, the Women’s Shed Canberra looks set to keep growing—one project, one friendship, and one power tool at a time. All they need is more funding to make the workshops more accessible and equitable.