Consultant Virginia Simmons, a former director and chief executive of the Chisholm Institute of TAFE and a deputy vice-chancellor at Melbourne's Swinburne University of Technology, met the reference group members from 11 organisations for the first time yesterday.

Ms Simmons was appointed by Education Minister Nick McKim when the review was announced in December and is expected to focus on a return to the TAFE system in the state.

She said the reference group would act as a sounding board.

''The reference group has been chosen from a broad range of education and training stakeholders in Tasmania,'' Ms Simmons said.

''They will act as an advisory group to me and will provide feedback and support to the process.''

The reference group includes the Australian Education Union Tasmania branch, University of Tasmania, Skills Institute and Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Ms Simmons said the review would investigate governance, funding and operational arrangements of VET providers. It will include a focus on the capacity to improve retention and participation rates, respond to identified skills needs and contribute to the state's economy.

Ms Simmons said she would seek comment and advice from industry leaders, submissions and regional consultations.

The review is expected to cost up to $80,000 and take four months.

Northern regional consultations will start in Launceston on March 7, before travelling to Scottsdale, Burnie, Devonport and Queenstown