Through her work in construction, Amanda Bulow is transforming one of Australia’s most entrenched and male-dominated industries. Her nomination for the 2026 Australian of the Year is recognition of her extraordinary commitment to building a more inclusive, equitable and future-ready Australia.
As the driving force behind Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC), Amanda Bulow is dedicated to empowering women and small businesses in the construction industry. A well-connected professional with over 20 years’ experience, she brings extensive expertise in procurement, sales and production estimating, helping organisations streamline processes and boost results.
While studying for a taxation law exam at a display village, Amanda was approached by the Sales Manager and asked if she would be interested in coming into the office.
Working in head office opened her eyes to the endless possibilities within the construction field. It wasn’t long before she found herself in estimating, where she discovered her true passion.
A construction industry professional, Amanda Bulow has over 24 years’ experience. Amanda's extensive knowledge in procurement, sales & production estimating has assisted numerous organisations in streamlining their business, finding efficiencies and improving results.
In March 2017, Amanda personally invited 14 ladies to attend a breakfast to connect and support each other.
Three months later 48 ladies attended a breakfast for no other reason than to connect and support each other.
Empowering students next move. Whether fresh out of school or just figuring things out, Be Ready app will help students and young people explore epic career paths in construction, mining and aggregates. It’s all about real opportunities, real connections and getting young people set for success.
In 2025 Amanda was invited to join the Qleave & CSQ board.
During this time she also completed her Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Spanning Amanda’s career, she’s had the privilege of being invited to speak and consult to a wide variety of listeners including conferences, expos, industry networking events as well as state, catholic and private school students.
Lance McCallum
Member for Bundamba
Shadow Minister for Energy
Member, Governance, Energy and Finance Committee
Amanda exemplifies energy, leadership and creativity and I have the utmost confidence in her ability and drive to celebrate what it is to be an Australian through not only her own story, but through supporting others.
As someone who has a natural ability to bring together diverse groups and foster collaboration, Amanda is a role model who leads by example and service that really inspires those around her.
Fiona Simpson
Member for Maroochydore
Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security
Ms Bulow is an integral contact to discuss challenges that women face and how to support them having a secure financial future. Amanda’s work in the construction industry spans 25 years and her passion for the industry and supporting women and students that this is the way forward for a secure financial future is commendable.
Ms Bulow is a role model in educating, advocating and amplifying the voices of women in the construction industry and those wanting to have a career in the construction industry.
Ruby Harrison
NICS Head Trainer
Amanda has been a role model and guiding light for me for many years. When I first entered the construction industry, I felt isolated and unsure of where I belonged. Discovering AWIC changed everything. It introduced me to a powerful community of women, and it was clear from the beginning that Amanda was the heart and soul behind it.
There have been times when I’ve struggled with the challenges that can come with being a woman in construction – discrimination, lack of diversity, and feeling like an outsider. Amanda was always there. Her advice was grounded in humaity, understanding, and unwavering support. She has an incredible ability to lift others up, and it’s clear that her mission is to see everyone around her succeed.
Angela Hucker
EPIC CEO
I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Amanda and witnessed firsthand the energy, sacrifice, and relentless drive she brings to everything she does. What you see with Amanda is what you get, genuine, determined, and entirely committed to lifting others up.
There aren’t many people who would take on the male dominated construction industry head-on, but Amanda Bulow has fearlessly. And she’s doing it not for fame or profit, but because it’s the right thing to do.
Ian Conlon
IS TECH SOLUTIONS – Founding Partner
Amanda’s work has had a profound impact on the construction industry and the broader community. Her dedication and achievements serve as an inspiration to women and young people across Australia. Through AWIC and Breaking Ground, Amanda has supported the development of regional communities by promoting careers in construction. Her ongoing efforts promise to continue making a positive impact on the industry and inspire future generations. Amanda is committed to promoting national pride and active citizenship through her work and public engagements.
Amanda Beatty
Head of Sales & Operations
Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Amanda and watching her turn a personal passion into a powerful, movement through AWIC. Her work has had a deep and lasting impact, and I’ve witnessed first-hand her unwavering commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable future for women in the construction industry. Amanda Bulow is a tireless advocate, a quiet achiever, and a true leader.
