25/03/2025
IEP Australia’s latest Member Ambassador says he wants to use the role to “contribute to a professional community that is dedicated to best practice, continuous learning, and real impact”.
Tony Fretton MAIEP is the first Member Ambassador to be appointed in Australia who is not already part of the local IEP staff.
The Employment Pathways Specialist for the Victoria State Region at Just Careers Training/Licences4Work, Tony also sits on the Victoria Multicultural Commission’s Regional Advisory Council for the North & West Region and a Multicultural Ambassador for the Mental Health Foundation Australia.
“I have built my career around employment services, community engagement, and advocacy, with a strong focus on supporting diverse and high-barrier job seekers into meaningful work and education,” he says.
“My experience spans across government, nonprofit, and private sectors, where I’ve worked with youth, multicultural communities, and marginalised groups to break down barriers to employment.”
IEP Member Ambassadors embody our values, vision, and mission, and actively advocate for our cause within their professional circles.
“Having spent years in employment and community services, I understand the critical role employability professionals play in helping individuals navigate complex job markets.
“The IEP’s mission to elevate and support professionals in this space aligns perfectly with my own values and career goals.
“I saw the Member Ambassador role as an exciting opportunity to contribute to a professional community that is dedicated to best practice, continuous learning, and real impact.
“Becoming the first non-staff MAIEP Member Ambassador in Australia is a privilege, and I look forward to championing IEP’s values and engaging with professionals who are passionate about workforce development.
“This is a great opportunity to shape the future of Employability professionals in Australia, and I am excited to be part of it!”
IEP Partnership Manager Matthew Crossingham MAIEP – also a Member Ambassador – says Tony’s appointment is a significant milestone for the Institute’s Australian operation.
“Tony’s experience and values make him the perfect person to help us promote the IEP’s mission in Australia,” Matt says. “His expertise and energy are a great asset to our organisation, as well as the broader Employment Services Sector.”