2026 - Launch and Lead, Connected, United, Empowered

We are delighted to welcome you to our first episode of 2026, where we’re bringing together school leadership voices from across the country for a special national round table discussion on the year ahead.

Joining us today are four outstanding leaders who represent principals at both state and national levels through AGPPA.

We’re joined by Pat Murphy, President of QASSP in Queensland; Andrew Dalgleish, Vice President and Victorian President of the VPA; Michael Burgess, Treasurer and New South Wales President; and Niel Smith, Secretary, Western Australia President, and Australian President of WAPPA.

Together, they’ll be reflecting on the lessons of the past year, welcoming the opportunities of 2026, and sharing insights into the priorities, challenges, and possibilities facing school leaders across Australia.

Whether you’re a principal, aspiring leader, or part of the broader education community, this conversation is designed to spark ideas, strengthen connections, and set the tone for the year ahead.

So let’s get started—welcome to 2026, and welcome to the Victorian Principals Association Podcast.