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Review of the Principal Standard

Current and future school leaders across Australia can help shape the Principal Standard to elevate leadership practice and improve outcomes for children and young people.

What you need to know

The Australian Professional Standards for Principals (Principal Standards) were developed over 15 years ago. While the Principal Standards continue to guide practice across Australia, they have not been formally reviewed since they were first adopted.

  • The review is in response to views expressed by teachers, school leaders and the broader profession.
  • The review will identify opportunities for improvements of the Principal Standards and make recommendations to Education Ministers.
  • Consultation will be wide ranging and open to anyone who would like to make a submission.
  • We will also consult directly with the profession and other key educational stakeholders.
  • In the meantime, the Principal Standards remain unchanged and in use.

What is the purpose of the review?

The review will consider the extent to which the Principal Standard remains relevant, evidence-informed and aligns with understandings of effective educational leadership practice. This includes identifying areas where the Principal Standard may be strengthened or improved to ensure it remains fit for purpose, and providing recommendations on revisions needed.

When is the review?

AITSL will conduct a phased review of both the Teacher Standards and Principal Standard. The review of the Principal Standard will take place from September 2026 to May 2027. The review of the Teacher Standards will take place from May 2026 to February 2027.

Find out about the Teacher Standards review here.

Review of the Teacher Standards

How can I get involved?

This review places the profession at the centre of the process. School leaders across Australia will have the opportunity to contribute their expertise and help shape how the Principal Standard reflects leadership practice now and in the future.

There will be 2 broad consultation opportunities:

Consultation 1
Focuses on the current Principal Standards. You will be invited to share your experiences and perspectives through an online survey.
Consultation 2
Involves a discussion paper outlining key research insights and questions to support deeper feedback. You can respond through an online survey or a written submission.

Feedback from both phases, along with the insights from key educational stakeholders, will inform AITSL’s development of a final report and recommendations for Education Ministers to consider any potential revisions.

When consultation opportunities open, we will share information through AITSL Mail. Subscribe to stay up to date.

How can I find out more?

Find out more supplementary information about the Review of the Principal Standards here:

 

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How can I get in touch?
Send us an email at:
[email protected]