Gaye Hamilton

Deputy Chancellor of Victoria University

2022 VIC Senior Australian of the Year

No-one can question Gaye Hamilton’s unwavering enthusiasm for Melbourne’s west – whether as Deputy Chancellor of Victoria University, Chair of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation, or Director of the Victorian Government’s State Sports Centres Trust.

Across her many, diverse undertakings throughout her working life, last year proved to be Gaye’s greatest test. The COVID-19 pandemic hit many industries hard, including tertiary institutions. At Victoria University, she navigated the breadth and complexity of pandemic-related issues through 2020 and beyond.

Victoria University went on to be voted number one in Australia for employability – a remarkable achievement in a sector hit hard by COVID-19.

Meanwhile, as Chair of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation, she has supported and guided the organisation to redirect all programs to digital creative platforms. This has ensured it maintains engagement with the community and those in need, even during Victoria’s extensive lockdowns.

With generosity, humility and a team-oriented spirit, Gaye is driven by social justice and the development of Melbourne’s west.