Research Advisory Board

The Elevo Institute is undertaking vital research into student disengagement in Years 7 to 9 within the Victorian education system. Our Research Advisory Board plays a pivotal role in ensuring this work is guided by academic rigor, ethical integrity, and strategic insight. 

Purpose of the Research Advisory Board

The Board was established to provide expert guidance and safeguard the quality and impact of Elevo’s research. Its members help ensure that our investigations into student disengagement not only meet the highest academic standards but also remain relevant, practical, and transformative. 

The Board’s responsibilities include: 

  •  Strategic advice on emerging trends and issues affecting Years 7–9 student engagement. 
  • Shaping research priorities by identifying key questions and areas of inquiry. 
  • Guiding methodologies to ensure rigor and ethical soundness. 
  • Interpreting and disseminating findings to inform policy, practice, and public debate. 
  • Facilitating collaboration with universities, schools, and educational bodies. 

Members of the Research Advisory Board

Our Board brings together leaders in education, research methodology, and school practice, with deep expertise in the Victorian education system. 

  • Mr David Loader AO, Project Director 
  • Dr Geoff Masters AO, Director of Research   
  • Prof. Glen Savage – Professor of Education Futures, Faculty of Education, The University of Melbourne 
  • Dr. Fiona Longmuir – Senior Lecturer & Co-Leader, Education Workforce for the Future Research Lab, Monash University 
  • Mr. Anthony (Tony) Mackay AM – Deputy Chancellor, Swinburne University; Co-Chair, National Center on Education and the Economy (Washington, DC); Immediate past CEO of the Centre for Strategic Education 
  • Dr. Chris Duncan – CEO, Australian Heads of Independent Schools Association (AHISA); former Principal 
  • Mr. Jonathan Walter – Principal, Carey Baptist Grammar School 

Schools Advisory Board

Alongside the Research Advisory Board, the Elevo Institute is establishing a Schools Advisory Board. This group will ensure our research remains grounded in the realities of schools, providing feedback on the appropriateness and applicability of findings. 

The Schools Advisory Board will draw members from across government, independent, and Catholic schools, as well as teacher unions—bringing frontline voices into the conversation.