A focus on skills, gender, intersectionality and equity

The VSA is thrilled by the success of the first VSA Symposium – skills, gender, intersectionality and equity - attended by more than 80 enthusiastic participants from across industry, training and government. The energy in the room was palpable as we collectively explored pathways to foster inclusive and equitable learning and workforce opportunities.

Following welcomes from our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Craig Robertson and Victorian Commissioner for Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Ro Allen, keynote speaker Dr Emma Cannen, author of Jobs and Skills Australia’s Gender Equality Study Series(opens in a new window), provided a deep analysis of gender and intersectional inequality in skilling, pay and pathways, with clear recommendations for system change.

We also heard from an incredible panel of Australian leaders at the forefront of creating equitable learning pathways, including:

• Melinda Davis – Empowered Women In Trades Group Australia
• Heather Saunders – WomenCAN Australia
• Matthew Wood – Volvo Group Australia
• Stacey Fedden – NECA Education & Careers.

A highlight of the day came from Kit McMahon, CEO of Women's Health in the South East, who invited the group to put themselves in the shoes of people with diverse backgrounds, barriers and talents to demonstrate how different the starting points on people’s pathways can be.

A huge thank you to our inspiring speakers and everyone who joined us on the day. Your commitment and enthusiasm were integral in making this event a resounding success.

We look forward to continuing the conversation at the next 2 events of our series in 2026:

• Skills, Treaty and First Peoples’ self-determination
• Disability, vocational education and training and the workplace.

To be notified when the registrations have opened email vsa.engagement@ecodev.vic.gov.au

Read more Victorian Skills Authority news.