The Australian Primary Principals Association Education Foundation

About The Australian Primary Principals Association Education Foundation – Supporting Primary School Leadership in Australia

The Australian Primary Principals Association Education Foundation is the education and research arm of Australia’s peak body for primary school principals. Established in 2026 and registered with the ACNC, the Foundation advances professional development and evidence-based leadership practices across Australia’s primary education sector. Building on the Australian Primary Principals Association’s 50-year legacy since 1974, the Foundation represents the collective voice of over 7,600 primary principals and advocates for the 2.2 million primary students in Government, Catholic, and Independent schools across all Australian jurisdictions.

Mission and Scope

The Foundation supports and advocates for primary school principals, the education and wellbeing of primary school students, and the work of primary school communities across Australia. It promotes the profession of primary school leadership, advances professional development opportunities, and creates forums for the exchange of ideas focused on effective school leadership. The Foundation works across all three education sectors-Government, Catholic, and Independent-bringing together leaders who collaborate in the best interests of Australian primary education.

Programs and Research

The Foundation contributes to the Australian education landscape through evidence-based initiatives and research projects. Key areas of focus include:

• Professional development programs for primary school leaders
• Research into effective leadership practices and school autonomy
• Advocacy on critical education issues including student wellbeing, literacy leadership, and support for Indigenous education
• Collaboration with national education stakeholders and government departments
• Partnerships with organisations including the Principals Australia Research Foundation (PARF), established in 2019 to fund leadership development research

Impact and Partnerships

The Foundation maintains strong relationships with the Commonwealth Department of Education, state and territory education authorities, and key national education bodies. It engages with affiliated state and territory associations representing primary principals across all jurisdictions, ensuring a coordinated national voice. The Foundation also collaborates internationally, maintaining connections with the New Zealand Principals Federation.

Get Involved

The Foundation welcomes engagement from educators, researchers, and stakeholders committed to advancing primary school leadership and student outcomes across Australia.