The Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) is Australia's independent education evidence body.
Our vision and objectives
AERO’s vision is for Australia to achieve excellence and equity in educational outcomes for all children and young people through effective use of evidence.
In support of this vision, we:
- generate high-quality evidence
- present high-quality evidence that is relevant and accessible
- encourage adoption and effective implementation of evidence in practice and policy.
Our history
The establishment of a national evidence body was a key recommendation from the Review to Achieve Educational Excellence in Australian Schools (also known as the Gonski Review 2.0).
In December 2019, all Australian governments agreed to create an institute to position Australia’s educators at the forefront of education research to improve learning outcomes for all children and young people.
The creation of a national education evidence organisation was one of the national policy initiatives under the 2020 National School Reform Agreement, aimed at lifting outcomes across Australian education.
In 2020 Dr Jenny Donovan was appointed inaugural CEO of the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) and an independent Board was announced.
AERO was incorporated in 2021, with the vision to achieve excellence and equity in educational outcomes for all children and young people through effective use of evidence.
AERO is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission (ACNC) and we consistently meet ACNC’s governance standards.
Our values
Ambition
We have an unwavering commitment to achieving excellence and equity in Australian education.
Collaboration
We work with others to expand the depth, breadth and impact of education evidence.
Rigour
We apply relentless attention and care to ensure our work is of the highest standard.
Diversity and inclusivity
We seek and learn from difference of background, opinion and experience. We ensure the many contexts and experiences of Australian education are embedded in our work.
Transparency and integrity
We build trust by being honest, sharing our work and supporting new ideas. We welcome scrutiny to enhance the integrity of our processes.
Governance and management
AERO is a ministerial-owned company governed by a Board. AERO is jointly funded by the Commonwealth, state and territory governments.
Consultation
We consult regularly across the education sector to inform our decision-making and priorities.
Editorial style guide
This style guide is intended for use by anyone writing or editing an AERO publication. It should be used in conjunction with the Australian Government Style Manual and anything not covered in this guide should be sought out there.