MS TIERNEY (Western Victoria—Minister for Training and Skills, Minister for Higher Education) (13:46): Today I rise to pay tribute to Professor Peter Noonan, whose leadership in policy design in the higher education, training and skills system led the way for transformational reforms in Australia. His commitment and sharp insights always put the student at the centre, and his work in this field was well regarded by all sides of politics.
Peter possessed a commanding presence, and this was always backed by a thorough understanding of our sectors. His sharp insights and knowledge meant that he was always in high demand nationally and globally as a reviewer, speaker and commentator. He served as an adviser to ministers and departments and was a strong presence on the Victorian State Training Board. Peter’s work advising state and federal governments over recent years demonstrated his impact. He was a key contributor to many important reviews, including the 2008 Bradley review of higher education, the 2010 Gonski review of government school funding and the 2019 review of the Australian Qualifications Framework.
I am proud that this government has been informed by his work and is committed to building a connected-up education system. We will continue to build on the legacy of Peter’s work across the schools, vocational education and training, and higher education sectors. He will be sadly missed by all of us in education and training, and I extend my sincere condolences to his family and colleagues. Vale, Peter Noonan.
