We are thrilled to welcome Rick Elliss as Julia Gillard Community College’s new Principal. Rick is a highly experienced educational leader with a deep-seated passion for the transformative power of education and a career-long dedication to supporting every student’s journey.

Rick joins us from a strategic policy role with the Victorian Department of Education, bringing a wealth of “on-the-ground” experience from across the country. His journey has taken him all the way from Charnwood High School in the ACT to the Mallee at Manangatang P-12 College and, for over a decade, through major school transformations in Ballarat and leading innovation in Melbourne. Most recently, he served as the Principal of Ararat North Primary School, where he focused on community support and student wellbeing.

During his leadership career, Rick has been instrumental in delivering educational and community-based initiatives, including:

• The “Bridging the Digital Divide” outreach program, expanding access to technology for remote and disadvantaged students.
• The award-winning Linkup Re-engagement and Young Parents programs, providing specialised support pathways for vulnerable learners.
• The “Circuit Breaker” program, designed to re-engage students through innovative curriculum and outreach.
• System-wide policy development focused on addressing homelessness and the impacts of COVID-19 on school communities.

Beyond his professional credentials, Rick brings a unique perspective to Julia Gillard Community College. Having been raised experiencing poverty and working across various industries before moving into education, he has a firsthand understanding of the challenges many families face. This lived experience has helped form his commitment to addressing educational disadvantage and his approach to schools as supportive “hubs” for the entire community.

Throughout his career, Rick has been a pioneer of innovation—from establishing award-winning re-engagement programs to bridging the digital divide for students. We look forward to introducing Rick to our families and working together to ensure every student at Julia Gillard Community College has the opportunity to thrive.

Please join us in giving Rick a very warm welcome to our school community!