Regional Lead Spotlight - Fiona Maher, Seymour
Meet our new Regional Leads.
With 25 years’ experience in the VET sector, Fiona Maher brings a passion for transforming lives and strengthening communities.
The Chief Education Delivery Officer – Service Industries – has been appointed Regional Lead of the Seymour Region.
“My approach to growing the Seymour campus is grounded in NVITAFE’s intent to deliver quality, learner centred education, embed our campuses in the regions we serve, and strengthen partnerships that support student success and workforce development,” Fiona said.
“Vocational education creates pathways for people who may not otherwise see themselves reflected in traditional education systems. It supports learners to gain skills that are relevant, current and directly connected to employment, while also opening doors to further study and higher education.
"I strongly believe that a high quality, regionally embedded TAFE is critical to ensuring education is equitable, responsive and aligned to the needs of learners, industry and community. That belief has shaped my career and continues to guide my leadership approach.”
Seymour’s Wallis Street Campus is already experiencing the benefits of expanded course offerings in 2026, with more to come in Semester 2.
“I am focused on deepening relationships with local industry to ensure our training reflects current and emerging workforce needs and provides clear pathways into employment. This includes strengthening work‑based learning, traineeships, school pathways and industry‑informed delivery models that connect learners directly with employers,” Fiona said.
“Equally important is ensuring the Seymour campus is a welcoming and accessible community asset and a place where young people, career changers and lifelong learners can engage with education that leads to meaningful outcomes. By strengthening partnerships with secondary schools, community organisations and local stakeholders, we can support seamless pathways from school to TAFE, into employment, and onward to higher education where appropriate.”
Fiona will also look to engage with the wider Seymour community and continue to advocate for what is best for the region.
“By listening to our community, responding to industry need and maintaining a strong focus on student experience and outcomes, my goal is to position the Seymour campus' as a trusted regional hub for skills, pathways and opportunity, supporting both individual success and long‑term regional growth.”