Friday, 14 November 2025

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (09:46): Today I rise to acknowledge the passing of Virginia Simmons AO. Virginia was a visionary leader whose influence on vocational education continues to be felt right across Victoria, including throughout western Victoria. Virginia was a trailblazer as the first woman to lead a TAFE in Victoria and the longest serving female CEO in the sector. Virginia transformed Broadmeadows TAFE and Chisholm Institute in her time there. She championed recognition of prior learning, drove major policy reform and worked tirelessly to ensure TAFE was understood, valued and accessible, particularly for learners with disadvantaged backgrounds and for regional communities. The Caroline Chisholm Education Foundation, which she established, has supported thousands of students who have simply needed a fair chance to pursue their goals.

Virginia’s impact extended well beyond Victoria. She advised governments, led national reviews and contributed to international skills development. Her work has been recognised again and again. She was the first recipient of a Prime Minister’s training award, appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, listed on the Victorian Honour Roll of Women, and awarded the lifetime achievement award at last year’s Victorian Training Awards. This acknowledges her decades of leadership and her profound commitment to equity, opportunity and the public TAFE system. To Virginia’s family, colleagues and the broader vocational education and training community, we extend our deepest condolences. Her legacy will continue to benefit students, educators, and communities for generations to come.