Frances Coppolillo is one of Victoria’s most respected vocational education leaders, with more than 30 years of service and contribution to the TAFE and skills sector. Beginning her career as a teacher in 1986, Frances has built a distinguished career spanning teaching, educational leadership, executive management, board governance and regional advocacy, underpinned by a deep commitment to the public value of vocational education.
Throughout her career at Melbourne Polytechnic, Frances has progressed through a range of leadership roles, including Associate Director of the Faculty of Further Education, Deputy Director Programs, Teaching and Learning, and Deputy Chief Executive, before being appointed Chief Executive in 2017. Her leadership has been shaped by direct experience in teaching and learning and a strong understanding of the role TAFE plays in supporting students, industry and communities.
As Chief Executive, Frances has led Melbourne Polytechnic through a significant period of transformation, strengthening its financial sustainability, governance and organisational capability. Under her leadership, the institute has become a high-performing, trusted and responsive provider, recognised across the sector for its contribution to government priorities, workforce development and educational excellence. This progress was highlighted when Melbourne Polytechnic was named Large Training Provider of the Year in 2024.
Frances has championed initiatives that extend beyond institutional success to address broader economic and social priorities. She has overseen major investments in learning environments, including the renewal of the Collingwood campus and the establishment of two Tech Schools, while strengthening pathways for learners through vocational, higher, international and community education. Her leadership has also positioned Melbourne Polytechnic at the forefront of emerging national priorities through the Centre of Excellence in the Future of Housing Construction, supporting innovation and workforce capability in a critical sector.
Her influence extends well beyond Melbourne Polytechnic. Frances was a founding director of the TAFE Development Centre, now the VET Development Centre, and has contributed to numerous regional and sector partnerships, including NorthLink, Regional Development Australia and Local Learning and Employment Networks. She has also supported Victoria’s international education sector through representation on the Victorian International Education Advisory Council.
Widely respected for her integrity, professionalism and collaborative leadership style, Frances has made a lasting contribution to vocational education and training in Victoria. Her career reflects a sustained commitment to strengthening the TAFE sector, creating opportunities for learners and supporting the economic and social prosperity of communities across the state.
About the award
The Outstanding Achievement in the TAFE and Skills Sector Award (previously known as the Lynne Kosky Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement) is presented in recognition of an individual’s outstanding leadership and contribution to the Victorian TAFE and training sector for more than 15 years.
Recipients of this prestigious award have reached a pinnacle of their profession or industry and have demonstrated long standing commitment and outstanding leadership in the Victorian TAFE and training sector.
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