We invite you to revisit the highlights of this year’s National Awards ceremony, an evening dedicated to recognising exceptional leadership, contribution and impact across the Australian education community. The gallery captures the moments that reflect the depth, breadth and excellence of the profession.

The Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL) has provided a response to the Federal Government’s proposal to establish a Teaching and Learning Commission through the merger of AITSL, ACARA, AERO and ESA.

We would value a cogent and considered approach that strengthens coherence across the system and deeply supports the profession. ACEL’s response highlights the importance of a shared professional framework, grounded in values, trust, and purpose.

We commend the ACEL Statement of Commitment to the Profession of Teaching as a unifying reference point to shape the mission and culture of the new Commission.

ACEL’s 2025 Annual Report has now been released. Explore the highlights of ACEL's accomplishments and contributions to educational leadership in this latest report.

ACEL and headspace Schools & Communities are partnering to launch a national pilot designed to strengthen mental health and wellbeing supports for school leaders and their teams.

Through Reflective Practice sessions – safe, structured conversations led by expert facilitators – leaders can explore professional challenges, strengthen resilience, and reduce the risk of burnout.

We’re inviting school leaders across Australia to register their expression of interest in this groundbreaking national initiative.

Your voice matters – help shape a future where every school leader feels supported.

The countdown is on for the ACEL National Conference 2025, proudly presented with the NSW Department of Education. Join leaders, educators, and changemakers from across Australia and beyond for three transformative days of ideas, inspiration, and action. Register now to secure your spot, and don’t forget to take advantage of group rates!

The ACEL National Conference 2025 is your chance to reach thousands of decision-makers across all sectors of education. Sponsorship & exhibitor packages are now open!

AEL ‘Pluralism and Leadership’ is out now!  With lead articles written by Dr Carolyn M. Shields and Dr Peggy Burrows. Our ACEL Speaks section is with Emeritus Frank Crowther, AM. Other sections include the Leadership Challenge, Success Stories and Book Reviews. Now available for individual purchase or FREE to all ACEL Members.

This special issue explores "Mentoring to Build Leadership in Education", showcasing its critical role in developing leadership across every level—from teachers to superintendents. Inside, you’ll find real-world case studies and research-backed frameworks that highlight how mentoring builds confidence, improves retention, promotes equity, and supports career growth. Whether you’re new to leadership or guiding others through their journey, this issue offers practical insights and inspiration to strengthen your impact.

We are seeking passionate early career educators from across Australia who are ready to lead, connect, and inspire. Successful applicants will receive free conference registration, access to a national network of emerging leaders, and exclusive leadership development opportunities. Applications close on 18 June.

ACEL, in partnership with the NSW Department of Education, invites you to be part of the 2025 National Conference in Sydney from 29 September – 1 October. Presenters receive discounted registration. Submissions close Monday 16 June, 11.59pm.

ACEL, in partnership with the NSW Department of Education, is thrilled to announce the 2025 ACEL National Conference in Sydney from 29 September to 1 October 2025. Together, we’ll explore how to create equitable, future-focused learning ecosystems, amplifying diverse voices, shaping professional and community narratives, and empowering all learners to thrive. Early bird tickets are now available at discounted rates for both members and non-members.

Your journey to expert communication starts here! Join Rosie Connor (Global Director, BTS Spark) and Josh Valeri (Director, BTS Spark Australia) on March 27 as they share practical strategies to enhance your communication skills and explore the impact of AI on leadership interactions.

AEL ‘Moral purpose of leadership is out now! With  lead article written by Emeritus Professor Neil Dempster, in addition to a spotlight interview with The Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG. View these resources and more in this latest AEL Issue now available for individual purchase or FREE to all ACEL Members.

Discover the exciting opportunities at ACEL’s Middle Leadership Summit 2025! Explore how this premier event supports and empowers middle leaders with cutting-edge insights, expert speakers, and practical strategies.

Join us in Brisbane on 14 May 2025 for an interactive workshop designed for early childhood leaders and school executives to collaboratively strengthen pedagogical leadership in the early years. Led by Amie Fabry, this session will provide clarity on the role of early childhood leadership in schools, offering practical strategies to enhance quality practice and support whole-school teams.

We are delighted to open our call for ACEL’s prestigious peer-nominated awards, proudly recognising the education profession for the 40th year. Nominations are welcomed from all members of the education community. See our website for further information and nomination form.

Are you or a colleague an emerging voice in educational leadership? ACEL’s New Voice Scholarships are part of our significant commitment to recognise the emerging voices in educational leadership. New Voice Scholarships recognise forward thinking, contextually relevant and responsive educational leaders whose work has had an impact above and beyond their immediate context. To find out more and to nominate yourself or a colleague see our website for further details.

The ACEL National Middle Leaders Summit is fast approaching, and we’re excited to share the Program at a Glance, your first look at the inspiring sessions, expert speakers, and key themes shaping this year’s event. Join us on the Gold Coast from 2–3 June 2025 for a powerful two-day experience designed to support and strengthen middle leaders.

Join us in Darwin on 26 May 2025 for a transformative 1-day workshop with Dr. Selena Fisk, a renowned data storyteller and author specialising in data strategy, visualisation, and evidence-based practices. This workshop is designed to equip school leaders with the tools and insights needed to build a sustainable, data-informed culture in education.