About us

We are responsible for the provision of public education and have a role in supporting the education of all students in Western Australia.

In line with relevant legislation, we are responsible for delivering a system of public schools, as well as the regulation and funding of Catholic and independent schools.

We recognise and respect the independence of Catholic and independent schools. We undertake our responsibilities to all schools, systems and sectors with diligence and integrity. We are impartial in our role as a regulator and funder.

Our aspiration is for every student to:

• unlock and fulfil their learning potential
• be equipped with contemporary and emerging work capabilities
• develop the personal and social attributes that form the basis for future wellbeing
• achieve year‑on‑year growth in their learning throughout their schooling
• be well prepared to take the step beyond school into further education, training or work.

Our 6 improvement drivers:

• Provide every student with a pathway to a successful future.
• Strengthen support for teaching and learning excellence in every classroom.
• Build the capability of our principals, our teachers and our allied professionals.
• Support increased school autonomy within a connected and unified public school system.
• Partner with families, communities and agencies to support the educational engagement of every student.
• Use evidence to drive decision‑making at all levels of the system.

 

Integrity
We believe a good education is the bedrock upon which everything else stands. We do not take this responsibility lightly and feel privileged to be part of it. We act in the best interest of students and the community at all times. We are accountable and honest and have strong ethical and moral principles. 

Equity
We recognise the different circumstances, needs and aspirations of students and staff. We strive for learning and work environments that are free from racism, discrimination, bullying, abuse or exploitation. We believe in more than one path to success and our purpose is to help every child find theirs. 

Voice
We attentively listen to each other and our students, families, communities and stakeholders. We encourage honest and respectful expression of ideas and diversity of thought. We empower the voice of children and young people to be partners in their education. 

Truth‑telling
We commit to learning about the diverse histories, experiences and worldviews of Aboriginal people. We create culturally safe learning and work environments, and culturally responsive services, free from racism and discrimination. 

Teamwork
We support, encourage and inspire each other and value the contribution of all. We champion trust and inclusivity. We recognise the importance of collaboration to help students achieve their best. 

Care
We practise mutual respect and accept our responsibility to develop and maintain appropriate relationships. We are attentive and considerate. We strive to keep ourselves, others and our resources safe. 

Learning
We have a positive approach to learning and encourage it in others. We advance student learning based on our belief that all students have the capacity to learn. 

We are committed to teaching, learning and working environments where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.

Our Minister is Hon Dr Tony Buti MLA, Minister for Education. We are also responsible to Hon Sabine Winton MLA, Minister for Early Childhood Education, on strategic matters relating to early childhood education and Hon David Templeman MLA, Minister for International Education, on strategic matters relating to international education. 

Our accountable authority in 2023–24 is Ms Lisa Rodgers PSM, Director General, Department of Education.

Our enabling legislation is the Public Sector Management Act 1994 (WA) in which the Department of Education is established under section 35. 

We provide staff, facilities and resources to the following entities created under legislation enacted by the Western Australian Parliament or by ministerial administrative action:

• Non‑Government Schools Planning Advisory Panel
• Non‑Government School Registration Advisory Panel
• Rural and Remote Education Advisory Council
• School Curriculum and Standards Authority
• Teacher Registration Board of Western Australia
• Western Australian Higher Education Council.

Broad state government goals are supported at agency level by specific desired outcomes. We continued to deliver our 4 services to achieve our desired outcome. 

Government goal

Safe, strong and fair communities: Supporting our local and regional communities to thrive

Desired outcome

School students across Western Australia have access to high quality education

Services

1. Public primary education
2. Public secondary education
3. Regulation and non‑government sector assistance
4. Support to the School Curriculum and Standards Authority

These services are as per our approved outcome‑based management framework.

Our strategic directions for public school education from 2020 to 2024, Every student, every classroom, every day, set clear aspirations for every student enrolled in a public school and focus on improvement drivers across 6 pillars to strengthen support for teaching and learning.

Building on strength: future directions for the Western Australian public school system is our long‑term vision for education over the coming years. This statement explains the thinking and rationale behind the commitments made in our strategic directions for public schools and acknowledges the need for students and teachers to be at the centre of our efforts.

To provide specific directions for public education each school year, we published Focus 2023 and Focus 2024, aligned to our strategic directions.