FDM and ANZ partner to help close the gender gap in Australian tech  

Melbourne came alive with curiosity, creativity, and code as we welcomed a vibrant group of aspiring tech technologists to our Code with Confidence: Python & AI Workshop. Hosted in collaboration with ANZ, the one-day event brought together women from a range of academic and professional backgrounds, all eager to take their first or next steps into a tech career. 

The workshop offered a beginner-friendly, hands-on introduction to Python programming and AI concepts, alongside inspiring talks from industry leaders and a welcoming space to connect with like-minded peers. 

This marked the second year of collaboration between FDM and ANZ to deliver female-focused coding events in Australia, as part of our shared commitment to inclusion, innovation, and real-world upskilling opportunities. 

Tackling the gender gap, together 

In Australia, women currently make up just 30% of tech roles, and only 19% of those completing engineering and technology degrees. FDM and ANZ recognise that to close this gap, it’s not enough to talk about it; real, inclusive action is needed. 

FDM has been championing women in tech globally for more than 30 years. Our gender equity efforts are backed by results: a negative median gender pay gap of -1.5%, compared to the Australian national average of +16% (WGEA, 2023). Today, our programs, like She Lives Tech, offer clear, practical pathways for women into tech, regardless of their academic or career background.  

Hands-on learning that builds confidence 

The Code with Confidence workshop was inclusive for complete beginners to final-year IT students. Attendees were welcomed into an environment where they could learn, ask questions, and see their potential in real time.  

For many attendees, the approach made all the difference. 

Kimchheng (Scarlett) Heng, a final-year IT student at RMIT (Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology), said: 

“It was an empowering day surrounded by talented women in tech, learning new skills and gaining insights into the future of AI and programming.” 

That spirit of encouragement echoed throughout the event. From FDM’s Skills Lab coaches to guest speakers from ANZ, participants were supported not just in their learning, but in seeing where that learning could take them. 

A partnership with proven impact 

Building on the success of the 2024 She Lives Tech Coding Bootcamp, the 2025 Code with Confidence workshop doubled its attendance target and significantly boosted interest for our graduate program from females.  

By creating an inclusive, supportive learning experience, the workshops addressed the gender gap while helping identify future talent aligned with the shared values of ANZ and FDM. Hsu Myat Wint, a final-year IT student at Monash University, summed up the day succinctly: 

“Code with Confidence, and that’s exactly what we did.”

Inspiration from the industry 

Speakers from the event shared stories from their career paths and gave attendees practical advice on navigating the tech landscape. 

For Sahaya Merin Victor Babu, a 2024 Westpac Young Tech Scholar and Women in STEM Ambassador, these sessions offered an important bridge between theory and practice: 

“It was an incredible opportunity to explore the power of AI in a practical, hands-on environment. From coding challenges to discussions about real-world applications of AI, every part of the workshop was both educational and inspiring.” 

Continuing the momentum 

The Code with Confidence: Python & AI Workshop represented just one step in a broader journey toward a more inclusive tech workforce in Australia. FDM and ANZ remain committed to scaling these efforts through continued collaboration, inclusive hiring programs, and industry partnerships that focus on impact, not just intention. 

Each woman who attended this workshop left with something valuable, whether it was a new skill, a new connection, or a new sense of direction. And as the tech industry evolves, initiatives like this will be key in ensuring everyone can shape its future. 

How FDM can support your business 

The technology industry is evolving at a rapid pace. For organisations determined to grow, we build agile, multi-talented teams who can help you stay one step ahead. If you’re interested in building a tech workforce that reflects the society we serve, Book a Discovery Session with our team.