A distinguished leader, Adrienne Nieuwenhuis understands what VET means to learners, employers, unions and governments, and appreciates how workforce development impacts the economy. She has played a pivotal role for over 30 years in shaping policy, advancing workforce development, and strengthening industry–education partnerships at state and national levels.
Adrienne communicates the complexities of tertiary education, the Australian Qualifications Framework and skills attainment from a regulatory and workforce-development perspective. Her strategic insight, tireless advocacy, and commitment to quality and equity in tertiary education are admirable.
A former member of the South Australian Skills Commission and chair of its Traineeship and Apprenticeship Sub-Committee, Adrienne is currently a member of the Australian Skills and Quality Authority’s National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Advisory Council and the Commonwealth Department of Education’s Initial Teacher Education Quality Assurance Oversight Board. In 2021, she was appointed as Commissioner of the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), becoming Acting Chief Commissioner in May 2024.
Adrienne has collaborated closely with the Australian Government to establish national regulatory systems for both the VET and higher education sectors. In addition, she has contributed her expertise through service on numerous national and state committees and councils, including the Higher Education Standards Panel, the National Skills Standards Council, the Australian Industry and Skills Committee, and its COVID-19 Emergency Response Sub-Committee.
With experience, dedication, and hard work underpinning her leadership, Adrienne has contributed significantly to the advancement and quality assurance of Australia’s tertiary education system.