Independent Schools Victoria welcomes new Minister for Education
Tuesday 4 August 2026
Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) today welcomed the appointment of Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Gabrielle Williams MP. ISV Chief Executive Rachel Holthouse said the organisation looked forward to engaging with Minister Williams on the key issues affecting Victoria's independent school sector.
“Independent Schools Victoria values its constructive relationship with the Victorian Government and appreciated the collaborative approach taken by Premier Carroll during his time as Minister for Education. We look forward to building a productive partnership with Minister Williams in support of Victorian students, families and schools,”
— Ms Holthouse
Victorian independent schools continue to play a vital role in Victoria’s education system, offering families genuine choice and reflecting the diversity of the communities they serve. ISV and its member schools are committed to ensuring every Victorian family has access to a school that best meets their child’s needs. More than 179,000 students attend Victoria’s independent schools, with one in six Victorian families choosing an independent education for their child – highlighting the important role the sector plays in meeting the diverse needs of communities across the state.
Currently many member schools are facing unprecedented pressure as they navigate rising salary costs, teacher shortages, uncertainty around future NCCD funding arrangements, and, in particular the impact of payroll tax.
“ISV looks forward to working with the Minister and supporting her growing understanding of our schools and the significant contribution they make to meeting the education needs of Victoria. Collaborating to protect their sustainability and ensure they remain accessible to the parents that choose them will be a key component of our relationship,” said Ms Holthouse.
For all media enquiries, please contact:
Siobhan Gleeson
Head of Corporate Affairs
03 9825 7216
media@is.vic.edu.au