Gender inequalities have long been debated and remain relevant today. In Sydney, female landscaper Shianne Fox—known as “The Bikini Tradie”—sparked controversy by questioning why men can work shirtless in the heat, but women can’t.
On a 40°C (104°F) day, Fox was told she couldn’t remove her shirt at work, despite men on site doing so freely. She called this a sexist double standard and wants equal treatment, often working in a bikini top to cope with the heat.
Fox argues that breasts are natural and shouldn’t be seen as distracting, but critics say workplace professionalism matters. Some female tradies feel her social media presence hurts their credibility, while many men support her stance.
Women remain vastly underrepresented in trades—there are 12 men for every woman. Fox hopes her openness encourages more women to join male-dominated industries. She says standing firm and confident is key to earning respect on the job.