Standards are a means by which a profession defines itself. They have a unifying role and are a basis for public confidence and respect.
The national focus of the Standard provides an opportunity for members of the education profession - irrespective of sector, level of schooling, geographic, economic or social context or jurisdiction - to describe the professional practice of effective principals and to make it accessible and meaningful to others.
The Standard makes explicit that quality school leadership is important to student learning, the teaching profession and the broader community.
It is the first nationally agreed standard for Australian principals.