The division leads strategic policy development for a broad range of education sectors in Queensland, along with performance monitoring and reporting, risk management and planning activities for accountability and planning to sustain a high-quality education environment for Queensland’s children and young people.
The division oversees the management of funding to non-state schools, grant programs for non-government organisations providing services to students with disability in state and non-state schools, delivery of services through Home Education and the Australian Music Examination Board (AMEB), as well as maintaining relationships with several portfolio statutory bodies in relation to legislation and governance. The division provides support to the independent Non-State School Accreditation Board (NSSAB) and registration services for providers of courses to international school students.
The division also coordinates major internal and external research and evaluations and leads the development of the portfolio's legislative instruments. The DEi branch delivers services and products, such as study tours, on a commercial basis, spotlighting Queensland education on the international stage.
Pia has held leadership positions across a number of state government portfolios, including the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, transport, main roads, early childhood education and care, school education and training and skills. She has significant experience in intergovernmental relations, and policy reform at state and national levels. Over the course of her public service career, Pia has also led strategic planning, program development, legislation and research functions, driving alignment with government objectives.