Dr. Ros Baxter
Chief Executive Officer, Good Start Early Learning
Ros is a nationally recognised education executive with 25 years’ experience championing early intervention and education as vital tools to disrupt intergenerational disadvantage. Her unique background—spanning frontline social work, law reform, government policy, and executive leadership—has enabled her to shape national policy and strategies that create positive change for children, families, and communities.
Appointed CEO of Australia’s largest early learning provider in 2022, she has also held senior public policy roles with responsibility for gender equality, family and domestic violence, and programs for men and boys. Ros’s dedication began in 1996 as a child protection social worker, where she witnessed firsthand how skilled early learning educators can transform lives. Guided by the principle “Who needs us most?” Ros has since held influential roles across government and community organisations, ensuring the early years remain central to national policy.
At Goodstart, Ros leverages her expertise in public policy, research, and community engagement to drive innovative, child-centric solutions. As a mother of four, including three boys, she understands the importance of inclusive, high-quality early learning for every child, and strives to nurture their strengths and potential.
“We have a never-to-be-repeated window of opportunity in the early years to imagine and realise better ways of learning, growing and caring. Together.”
