On 5 December 2011, the Minister for Education and Skills, Hon Nick McKim MP, announced an independent and forward looking review of the role and function of public providers of vocational education and training (VET) in Tasmania. 

The review will investigate the current governance, funding and operational arrangements of the public providers of VET in Tasmania and their capacity to improve student participation and retention rates, respond to identified skills needs and contribute to Tasmania’s productivity. 

It will also ensure that the increased availability and accessibility of VET options and pathways to younger Tasmanians achieved over the last four years is sustained.

Terms of reference for the review were developed in consultation with key stakeholders.

The review is being conducted by Virsis Consulting director, Virginia Simmons AO, a former director and CEO of the Chisholm Institute of TAFE and a Deputy Vice Chancellor (TAFE) and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Industry Relationships) at Swinburne University of Technology.  Ms Simmons will provide a report by April 2012.

A reference group of key stakeholders is supporting Ms Simmons’ work.

Extensive consultation was undertaken for stakeholders to provide input to the review.