About the Mitchell Institute
The Mitchell Institute is a leading policy think tank and research centre focusing on education policy, systems, and place.
As trusted national thought leaders, we are informed, independent and influential, with a proven ability to identify current and emerging problems and find achievable solutions.
Our vision
A fair and prosperous society where every individual, regardless of their background, thrives in an education system that enables them to make the most of every opportunity.
Our mission
Propose and advocate for improved evidence-based policy that supports an equitable, high-quality education system that addresses systemic disadvantage and supports lifelong learning.
What we do
- Build the evidence-base to support better education policy outcomes
- Generate world-class research that changes policy debates
- Inform public policy debates with timely, rigorous and accessible policy solutions
- Advocate for innovative, evidence-based policy solutions
At the Mitchell Institute, we combine technical, conceptual, and policy expertise to deliver rigorous, data-driven research that informs real-world change.
Our work is grounded in robust analysis and leverages innovative tools to understand how systems are performing - who they support well, who they fail, and how global insights can guide local improvements. By bridging research and practice, we ensure our insights are not only academically sound but also socially and politically relevant, accessible, and impactful.
We use this dual expertise to stimulate informed public debate and support evidence-based reform. By translating complex data into clear, practical policy ideas, we help increase understanding of the societal benefits of fairer, more responsive systems, and the issues that stand in the way.
Through direct engagement with policymakers, service providers, and communities, we provide deep, well-rounded perspectives that support effective, equitable solutions to Australia’s most pressing challenges.
Who we are
Established in Melbourne in 2013, the Mitchell Institute is part of Victoria University (VU), one of Australia’s six dual-sector universities that offer both university degrees and vocational education and training. Our close links with academics and institutes from across VU allow us to draw on cutting-edge research to inform our work.
The Mitchell Institute is also home to, and works collaboratively with, the world leading Centre for International Research on Education Systems (CIRES), and the impactful place-based Pathways in Place program.
Supporters & collaborators
Our influential work is supported by Victoria University, generous philanthropic contributions, our project partners, funders, and commissioners.