Shining stars of vocational training nominated for awards

The Victorian Government is celebrating the outstanding achievements of students, teachers and employers across the state at the 69th Victorian Training Awards next month, recognising excellence in the vocational education and training sector.

Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney today officially announced the 40 finalists that have been named across 14 categories including 6 individual awards, 4 employer awards, 4 training organisation awards and the Industry Collaboration Award.

With record-breaking numbers of nominations this year, this exceptional talent cements Victoria’s position as the national leader in vocational education and training.

Finalists include SuniTAFE nursing student and proud Koorie woman Pearl Dunn, who is nominated for Koorie Student of the Year, after pursing her dream of becoming a nurse while overcoming challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These education champions come from across Victoria including Bendigo, Geelong, Warrnambool, Wodonga and Warragul. Organisations nominated include the Chisholm Institute, TAFE Gippsland, The Gordon, South West TAFE, Smart Business Solutions, Jayco Australia, Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.

This year’s winners will be announced at the Victorian Training Awards gala ceremony on Friday 18 August 2023 with each one receiving $5,000 in prize money and the opportunity to represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Presented by the Victorian Skills Authority, the awards are supported by the Apprenticeship Employment Network (AEN) and the Global Apprenticeship Network (GAN) Australia.

Every Victorian has access to the training they need for the job they want, with more than $545 million invested in TAFE through the Victorian Budget 2023/24.  

Nation-leading reforms to the TAFE and vocational education system have been delivered including offering Free TAFE for more than 80 courses and short courses.

The full list of finalists can be found at 2023 Victorian Training Awards finalists(opens in a new window).

Quote attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney

'The Victorian Training Awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our apprentices, students, teachers, trainers and employers.'

'We had a record number of nominations for this year’s event – showcasing how our investment in TAFE and training is helping more Victorians get the training they need for the careers they deserve.'