Emeritus Professor Toni Downes has worked with universities, educational systems and schools, for nearly 40 years. Her professional and research interests focus on improved educational outcomes in universities and schools in the effective use of digital technologies, in gender and technology, and in teacher education policy and practice,

Her work has included numerous research and professional projects, over 70 publications, international and national professional presentations and workshops and over $1 million in grants and consultancies.  She has been a keynote or distinguished speaker at international conferences in New Zealand, USA, England, Switzerland, Hungary, PNG, Thailand, Hong Kong, Wales, China, Finland and Norway.

She is a highly experienced senior educational leader, having had senior roles at two universities.  In 2018 she retired from the role of DVC Academic at Charles Sturt University, having also served in earlier years,  as an Executive Dean, Dean, Associate Dean and Head of School.

She currently serves as a non-executive director on a number of education Boards, as a member of academic boards and advisory committees, and as an external reviewer of educational programs and organisational units.