Ten members have been appointed to serve two-year terms on the South Australian Skills Commission, to guide skills and workforce development within the state.
They comprise seven reappointed members and three newly appointed members, with Cameron Baker remaining as Chair (having been appointed in July 2023).
“This is a pivotal time for skills development in South Australia,” said Baker.
“Our new Commission members bring a wealth of experience and knowledge from across industries and regions with a strong understanding of the training system.
“Their collective leadership will strengthen our ability to respond to emerging challenges and embrace a more visible and vibrant skills system.”
The Commission’s members, representing industry, education and the community sectors, are:
- Andy Keough CSC, Managing Director, SAAB Australia
- Donny Walford, Managing Director, Behind Closed Doors and Bottom Line
- Estha van der Linden, State Head South Australia, Australian Industry Group
- Helen Gibbons, Executive Director, United Workers Union
- Ian Horne, Director at the South Australian Tourism Commission and Adelaide Venue Management Corporation, Chair of Business Events Adelaide Ltd
- John Chapman OAM, South Australian Industry Advocate, Whyalla Regional Coordinator and Presiding Board Member of the Construction Industry Training Board
- Joshua Peak, Secretary, Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association, South Australian Branch
- Michael Luchich, Chair of South Australia Health, Statewide Clinical Support Services Committee and Women’s and Children’s Hospital Foundation and Board Director for ACH Group
- Robyn Verrall, South-East Farmer, Founder, Bully’s Meats, 2022 SA AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Winner
- Stuart Gordon, State Secretary, Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union South Australia
The Commission’s previous term saw a focus on apprentice and trainee training, with South Australia being the only jurisdiction to support Degree Apprenticeships.
The Commission has also led the creation and expansion of dual-trade apprenticeships that equip apprentices with broader skills in response to workforce needs.
“The newly appointed Commission reflects the skills and experience our state needs to guide the decisions in the sector that best support our growing economy,” said the Minister for Education, Training and Skills, Blair Boyer.
“The Skills Commission’s leadership will be crucial to the delivery of the State Government’s skills agenda and ensuring all South Australians have access to high-quality training and career pathways.”
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