The recent public debate on the matters being considered in this inquiry has been prompted, in the most immediate sense, by the disclosure of certain recommendations in a review on religious freedom commissioned by the federal government.

This review looked at teacher registration in Australia to ensure processes are nationally consistent, rigorous and focused on teacher quality. The final report outlines 17 recommendations to strengthen teacher registration.

While most people expect to work a 38-hour full-time week, our public school teachers are working far more. In fact, teachers are working an average of 54 hours per week (43 hours at school and 11 hours at home), due to the increasing administrative demands on them to meet compliance standards.

This inquiry examined teachers and teaching, including the importance of ongoing teacher education, ‘measurements of gain’ in schools, government programs designed to support young people to gain the skills and work experience they need to get and keep a job and particular issues facing students with a disability.

These guidelines will make it easier for systems and sectors, principals, and other education leaders to find and develop future leaders, and ensure pathways to leadership are clear and inclusive.