Melbourne, Victoria | 20 July 2026
The Australian Education Society Inc. (AES) is proud to announce the official launch of the TSIRC Melbourne Liaison Office, following the execution of a landmark 10-year partnership between AES and the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC).
Held at the World Trade Centre in Docklands, Melbourne, the AES × TSIRC Grand Signing Ceremony brought together representatives from TSIRC, AES, education providers, industry partners, community stakeholders and media representatives to mark an important milestone in strengthening the connection between Victoria and the Torres Strait.
The newly established TSIRC Melbourne Liaison Office will serve as a practical platform for education pathways, cultural exchange, youth development, community engagement and approved partnership opportunities. It represents a long-term commitment to supporting meaningful cooperation between Victorian stakeholders and Torres Strait Islander communities.
A key focus of the ceremony was the formal signing of the AES × TSIRC Liaison Office Agreement, confirming AES’s role in establishing and operating the TSIRC Melbourne Liaison Office in Melbourne. Through this mandate, AES will support cross-state engagement across education, culture, community development and economic participation.
The ceremony also included the official unveiling of the TSIRC Melbourne Liaison Office at Level 9, Tower 3, World Trade Centre, Docklands, marking the physical presence of the office in Melbourne and its role as a central point of connection for approved initiatives.
Six Strategic Agreements Signed
In addition to the AES × TSIRC Liaison Office Agreement, the event featured five further partnership agreements across education, housing, biotechnology, seafood and cultural industries.
The agreements signed were:
AES × TSIRC Liaison Office Agreement
Establishing the official Melbourne Liaison Office to coordinate education, cultural exchange, community engagement and long-term partnership development.
Alpha Engineering & Construction Community Contribution Agreement
Creating a community contribution framework connected with Alpha’s community housing initiatives and broader support for Indigenous community development.
National Property College Student Support Agreement
Supporting eligible First Nations students through contributions toward remote learning equipment, education materials and digital access tools.
Blanche Pty Ltd 10-Year Strategic Agreement
Establishing long-term cooperation in marine biological research, sustainable aquaculture and sea cucumber product development connected with Torres Strait marine resources.
Ocean Nine Pty Ltd 10-Year Strategic Agreement
Supporting regional economic growth through sustainable fisheries, seafood harvesting, processing, export development and workforce training.
Taipei Ocean Nine Culinary & Cultural Partnership
Supporting the promotion of Torres Strait Islander seafood, culinary heritage and marine culture through a planned Melbourne flagship restaurant and related commercial pathways.
Together, these agreements reflect a multi-sector approach to long-term community outcomes, bringing together education, construction, biotechnology, sustainable fisheries, hospitality and cultural promotion under a shared framework of practical cooperation.
A Platform for Education, Culture and Community Development
Established in 2015, AES has worked to create educational, cultural and professional opportunities for students and communities across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. The formal appointment of AES as the TSIRC Melbourne Liaison Office represents a significant extension of this mission.
Through the office, AES aims to support education and training pathways, student engagement, cultural connection, community programs, industry partnerships and stakeholder coordination for initiatives connected with Torres Strait Islander communities.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Chris Hall, AES Board Member and Executive Advisor, described the TSIRC Melbourne Liaison Office as “not a symbolic gesture; it is a functional framework for action.”
The ceremony also honoured the leadership of Councillor Dimas Toby, Councillor for Division 1, Boigu Island, whose support and guidance have been central to strengthening the connection between TSIRC, AES and Victorian stakeholders.
The ceremony was held on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. AES acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and pays respect to Elders past and present. AES also respectfully acknowledges Torres Strait Islander Elders, communities and representatives connected with this important partnership.
Respect, Partnership and Long-Term Impact
For AES, the launch of the TSIRC Melbourne Liaison Office marks more than the beginning of a new office. It represents a long-term commitment to respectful partnership, practical outcomes and meaningful collaboration.
AES looks forward to working with TSIRC, partner organisations, education providers, industry stakeholders and community representatives to support future initiatives in education, culture, youth development, community engagement and sustainable economic opportunity. Corporate partners, educational institutions and community organisations interested in supporting approved Torres Strait Islander initiatives are encouraged to contact AES through the official website.
