Dr Lizzie Knight has been appointed Director of the Education and Skills Program at the Grattan Institute, where she will lead research into post-compulsory education and workforce policy.
Dr Knight joins the institute from Jobs and Skills Australia, where she served as Director, Workforce Futures. She has also held research and academic roles at the Mitchell Institute, Monash University, Box Hill Institute and Swinburne TAFE.
According to Grattan Institute, Dr Knight has authored more than 70 publications, including five books focused on national skills and education policy for young people and adult learners.
The Education and Skills Program will examine education policy through the lens of preparing young people and the broader workforce for a changing labour market. Its initial research agenda will focus on the post-compulsory education system, including the senior years of secondary school, vocational education and training, and tertiary education.
Grattan Institute Chief Executive Officer Dr Aruna Sathanapally said Dr Knight’s appointment comes at a critical time for education policy.
“It is vital that our education system puts young people on a strong footing to enter the fast-changing world of work. Lizzie’s expertise and energy will provide the insight and direction needed to ensure that our tertiary system can deliver the social and economic outcomes we need it to. This is a pressing public policy issue for the coming years.”
Dr Knight said she looked forward to contributing to policy reform in the education and skills sector.
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to join Grattan. I can’t wait to get to work with Aruna and the Grattan team on policy reforms to enhance the education and skills opportunities for all Australians.”
Dr Knight commenced in the role on 22 June.