The Front Project appoints Dr Caroline Croser-Barlow as CEO

Senior public servant Dr Caroline Croser-Barlow has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of early learning organisation the Front Project. 

Dr Croser-Barlow has an impressive track record in driving change in the ECEC sector, including leading the division in the Department for Education and overseeing a range of policies, programs and services for the participation, engagement and learning achievement for all children and young people, in particular, those experiencing challenges to their inclusion. 

Her most recent role involved supporting the South Australian Commissioner the Hon Julia Gillard in her work on early childhood education and care, and her previous roles have seen her work in a number of policy areas including early childhood education and care (ECEC), disability in education, climate change, energy, environment, and social policy. 

“Dr Croser-Barlow is an exceptional leader who has unique, extensive experience in ECEC and policy to steer the Front Project as it continues to influence the system to ensure inclusivity and equity for all children,” Lisa Chung, Chair of the Front Project, said.

“(She) will elevate the Front Project’s vision for a future where no child misses out on ECEC because of their postcode.” 

Dr Caroline Croser-Barlow said that the Front Project’s vision for a high-quality universal ECEC system in Australia has seen incredible change in recent years, but needs more to be done for ECEC to be an accessible, quality early learning system for all children. 

“We know that through a systems change approach, early learning can change children’s experience of inequity and intergenerational disadvantage, delivering both immediate and lifetime impacts,” she said. 

“I am thrilled to join the Front Project and continue its collaborative efforts for every child to have equal access to early learning.”

Dr Croser-Barlow takes over from Jane Hunt, the Founding CEO, who is stepping down after seven highly productive years in the role, and will formally take the helm in early April.