The VIT congratulates the Victorian registered teachers and education leaders named in The Educator's 2026 Most Influential Educators list.

The annual list recognises 41 educators from across Australia who are shaping education through leadership, innovation, research and evidence-informed practice.

This recognition reflects the significant impact Victorian educators have on learners, colleagues and school communities. Their work continues to strengthen the teaching profession and improve outcomes for students across the state.

As Jenny Donovan from the Australian Education Research Organisation noted, "A truly influential educator is someone who can put evidence into practice – and make it stick."

Recipients were recognised for their impact in areas including

• educational leadership
• innovative teaching practice
• research and evidence-informed improvement
• student wellbeing and inclusion
• school and system reform
• community engagement and advocacy.

Congratulations to all Victorian recipients on this well-deserved achievement. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to Victorian learners and the teaching profession.