The Group of Eight, comprising Australia’s research-intensive universities congratulates Skills and Training Minister Brendan O’Connor on his contribution to the Australian Parliament and wishes him the best for the future.
Minister O’Connor is widely respected for his unwavering commitment to ensuring Australia has the skilled workforce required to meet the present and future needs of Australian business and industry.
He has worked collaboratively across the entire post-secondary sector, with universities and VET providers, to deliver effective policy outcomes for Australia’s future. We thank the Minister for his collaborative approach – particularly in engaging with the Go8 – and recognition of the role universities play in teaching the advanced skills Australia needs.
A lasting legacy will be his oversight of the establishment of Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA), a body designed to ensure Australia’s labour market is fit for purpose now and in the long term.
Minister O’Connor was elected to Federal Parliament in 2001, served as a front bencher for 17 years and has been a Cabinet Minister in three ALP Governments. He has made an extraordinary contribution to public life.