Rethinking Leadership Scholarship: Beyond Labels, Transplants, and Trivialities.

A new special L&M issue challenges educational leadership research to move beyond superficial categorisation and Western-centric models. This issue invites manuscripts that ground leadership within its organisational, historical, and sociopolitical contexts, redirecting attention toward substantive questions about power, purpose, equity, and outcomes.

We welcome research that critiques "leadership-by-adjective" labels, examines cross-cultural transplants of leadership constructs, and theorises leadership as relational, situated, and contingent. Abstracts close 16 June 2026.

The future of education leadership starts here. In partnership with the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), we’re bringing together leaders from across Australia for three days of insight, inspiration, and bold thinking at the Rendezvous Hotel Perth from 30 September to 2 October 2026.

In a time of complexity, uncertainty, and rapid change, this conference is a space for courageous, connected, future-focused leadership. Join a national community shaping—not waiting for—the future of education.

Share your work: our Call for Papers is now open for leaders driving innovation and reimagining education.

FREE ACEL Teamwork Toolkit! Our Teamwork Toolkit is designed for school leadership teams who want to move beyond teams in name only. Through ACELearn, it focuses on building culture, strengthening collaboration, and designing teams that actually work together effectively.

Grounded in the Harvard Six Conditions of Team Effectiveness, the toolkit offers practical prompts to sharpen your practice and support the important work of leading together.

Download your FREE toolkit today!

A quick reminder that the full program for the ACEL National Inclusion & Disability Conference is now available. Explore keynotes, workshops, concurrent sessions and provocations that will shape this year’s national conversation on inclusive education.

Join us in Adelaide on 25–26 May 2026 for this flagship event, proudly presented in partnership with the SA Department for Education. Hosted at the Hilton Adelaide, the conference brings together leading voices and practical insights to support meaningful, evidence-informed inclusion.

Review the program, plan your sessions and register today.

It’s your opportunity to showcase your commitment, boost visibility, highlight new solutions, and build meaningful partnerships within a passionate and purpose-driven community.

Download the prospectus and explore the sponsorship options designed to align with your impact goals.

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.