New Director General appointed for Education

Ms Lisa Rodgers has been appointed new Director General of the Department of Education in news confirmed by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. Riverside ESC extends congratulations to Ms Rodgers and looks forward to her input and direction for schools in WA during 2019 and beyond.

Ms Rodgers' appointment follows a formal Public Sector Commission appointment process. She commences in the role on January 28, 2019. She has held numerous roles in the education sector in Australia and New Zealand, including senior roles in New Zealand's Ministry of Education. Since 2016, Ms Rodgers has been chief executive of the Australian Institute of Teaching and School Leadership.

Ms Rodgers will be responsible for leading the Department of Education as it works to equip public school students with the skills they need to achieve academically. The department is focused on lifting student performance in Aboriginal and lower socio-economic groups, and assisting schools to adapt to a shifting social and educational environment.

Public Sector Commissioner Sharyn O’Neill also welcomed the appointment: “With a strong background in education for nearly 20 years, Ms Rodgers will bring a fresh approach to the Western Australian public school system and to the broader role of the Department of Education.”

Ms Rodgers (47) was born in the United Kingdom and studied at the University of Wales, graduating with first class honours in psychology. She has a strong public sector background in strategic policy, research, insight, and analysis with the Ministry of Justice, the University of Wales, and the British Army.

The Governor in Executive Council approved the appointment of Ms Rodgers for a five year term commencing on 28 January 2019.

(Note: The Executive Council is the supreme decision making body of government and consists of the Governor (as chair) and all Cabinet Ministers. Its principal purpose is to advise the Governor on matters relating to the government of the State.)