Tim Bullard resigns as Secretary of the Department of Education, moves to AITSL

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff has accepted the resignation of Tim Bullard from his position as Secretary of the Department of Education, Children, and Young People, as he takes on a new opportunity as the CEO of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).

Mr Bullard has been appointed for a period of five years, commencing 21 October 2024, and is familiar with the work of AITSL having served on its Board from 2020 to 2021.

He will lead AITSL in building the evidence base on the teacher workforce, delivering quality initial teacher education programs and upholding professional teaching standards.

Mr Bullard exits his Secretary position having served the people of Tasmania for 20 years across various roles within the State Service, including Deputy Secretary in the Department of Premier and Cabinet before moving into his current role.

Significant moments throughout his eight year tenure in the role of Secretary include increasing support to children and their families in the early years, through the roll out of Child and Family Learning Centres, and the implementation of evidence informed reading instruction in every government school. 

“Mr Bullard’s leadership throughout the pandemic in ensuring students ongoing access to education was outstanding,” the Premier said.

“(His) commitment to building a system of equity across our public schools has been exemplary, seeing the introduction of nation-leading reform to support the wellbeing of all learners, increased support for students with disability and reducing barriers to education for students impacted by trauma.”

Premier Rockliff thanked Mr Bullard for his leadership throughout this period and wished him well in his future endeavours.