Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP has today welcomed the appointment of a new board for South West Institute of TAFE. The appointments are effective from 1 July.
The new Boards highlight the Andrews Labor Government’s work to restore independence and proper governance to Victoria’s TAFE institutes after years of neglect by the former Liberal Government.
An independent panel was set up to provide advice to the Department of Education and Training on the best people to serve across the 12 TAFEs.
An Expression of Interest process saw 513 people apply to become Board members with 239 candidates interviewed.
Ms Tierney said the directors at South West Institute of TAFE have a mix of skills in corporate governance, finance, legal, and business; together with links to the local community and industry.
Along with the ministerial appointments, the Boards will consist of the institute CEO and a staff-elected member – delivering on a key election promise.
An interim chair has been appointed to each Board. The interim Chair’s first priority is to oversee the election of the Board Chair who will then lead the co-option of the remaining directors to have proper oversight of the process.
Ms Tierney said the new structure moves away from the historical appointment of entire boards by government, meaning TAFE Boards are more democratic and representative of their students, staff and local communities.
The Department of Education and Training is now working with the Victorian TAFE Association (VTA) to ensure all directors have the training and skills to fulfil their Board duties and obligations.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP
“The South West Institute of TAFE Board has an important part to play in helping to drive the Labor Government’s work to rebuild and restore South West Institute of TAFE to a thriving public provider of vocational training.”
“The South West Institute of TAFE is a large public institution – it’s vital it is governed by people with the right experience.”