I have been visiting Melbourne's museums my entire life, sharing this beloved tradition with my child who has developed a deep interest and appreciation for these hubs of historical culture and learning. A fundamental part of our cherished experience has always been the assistance and guidance provided by Visitor Engagement Officers (VEOs). 

VEOs are an invaluable part of our community, offering engaging activities, invaluable insight into exhibits, and even opportunities to handle live animals. They typify the spirit of Melbourne's museums and manifest our city's rich love for culture and history.

However, the vital role of these dedicated VEOs is being threatened. Their roles are on the brink of being amalgamated with that of security personnel. To expect these impassioned museum guides to assume the harsh mantle of security guard simultaneously is unrealistic and detrimental. The proposed changes to their roles compromise the quality of the visitor's experience which is central to Melbourne's museums' reputation.

Alarmingly, more than 50% of Museum visitors rely on VEOs for guidance and increasing visitor engagement (source: Museum Visitor Survey, 2019). Losing VEO’s in their current capacity will undoubtly affect how Melbourne's museums function and diminish the visitor experience for many.

VEOs are the lifeblood of the museum, always trusted to share the latest museum events, show us amazing new exhibits, teach us something new and fascinating, help and reassure us. Security is a different role, one that cannot be combined with VEO. Security must be focused entirely on the task of watching and protecting valuable museum artifacts, VEOs on the other hand must be focused entirely on the role of making every visitor's experience a memorable and eventful one. These roles cannot be combined or we will lose both in the process. 

We cannot let this happen. Our museums are spaces for enlightenment that extend far beyond just securing our history; they are spaces for nurturing our future. We must protect the role of VEOs to maintain the high standards of engagement, enjoyment and education provided to the visitors.

In light of this imminent change, we call upon the Melbourne Museum Trust, Museums Victoria and the wider community to ensure the protection of VEO roles in their current, essential form. Please, support us in this fight to save our invaluable Visitor Engagement Officers and sign this petition today.