James Barron - Conference Speaker

Before taking on the role of GTA CEO in November 2001, Jim Barron spent 14 years in federal politics. Jim held a number of senior positions within the Howard Government, notably Chief of Staff to Dr David Kemp for 3 ½ years as well as Chief of Staff to Ministers Chris Ellison and Judy Moylan.

Jim was also State Director of the Queensland Liberal Party for 3 years 1994-1996 where, among other things, he had the pleasure of sacking Pauline Hanson as a candidate for the Liberal Party.

Jim brings to GTA a wealth of knowledge and experience in the political and social policy areas and feels “fortunate” to have been on both sides of the fence. Jim’s major focus now is to advocate to government and stakeholders alike, the need to lock in future skills development, solve skills shortages and build a training culture in Australia.