Construction in the UK has been formally classified as a “high-risk” sector for modern slavery in a new national report, alongside small cash-based businesses such as vape shops, barbers and hand car washes. The designation points to particular vulnerability in labour-intensive, subcontractor-heavy supply chains on building sites, including temporary works, groundworks and finishing trades where migrant and agency labour are common. Contractors can expect closer scrutiny of right-to-work checks, labour agency practices and tier-2/3 subcontractor oversight on major infrastructure and building projects.

The 2026 Women in Industry Awards will be held on 18 June at Doltone House Darling Island Wharf in Sydney, bringing together senior leaders and technical specialists from construction, transport, mining, manufacturing and related industrial sectors. The event recognises women driving operational, engineering and project delivery outcomes across areas such as major road upgrades, heavy plant operations, asset maintenance and advanced manufacturing. For civil, geotechnical and mining firms, participation signals support for workforce diversity in site-based roles and technical leadership, which is increasingly scrutinised in government procurement and Tier 1 contractor supply chains.

Canada’s new C$25‑billion Canada Strong Fund, to be deployed over three years, will act as a sovereign equity investor alongside tools like the Canada Infrastructure Bank and Export Development Canada, targeting large critical minerals, infrastructure‑adjacent and advanced manufacturing projects. Mining proponents seeking Fund backing will need “Fund‑ready” projects, with disciplined capital plans, advanced permitting, robust Indigenous engagement and transparent supply chains, and should expect tighter scrutiny of foreign ownership. A parallel Defence Industrial Strategy elevates 10 NATO‑listed defence‑critical minerals produced in Canada to security assets, favouring Canadian or allied mine‑to‑processing supply chains and execution‑ready projects over speculative plays.