Established in 1976 as the Victorian Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (VAECG), the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc. (VAEAI) is a community based and controlled organisation. The major aim of the VAECG was to develop processes for the involvement of Victorian Koorie community members in decision making regarding education and training provision for Koorie students.
This goal continues to be the core of the organisations’ principles of Koorie community empowerment.
The VAEAI provides an advocate role for the Victorian Koorie community and provides representation in relation to all education and training policy, strategy and program development at the local, state and national levels. It promotes the provision education and training which is culturally relevant, reinforces cultural identity and provides supportive learning environments for Koorie people. VAEAI also supports the provision of education to the wider community which increases awareness of Koorie culture, communities and aspirations.