Payal Goundar is a Research Officer in the Education and Development program at ACER. Her area of expertise is in primary education, 21st century learning and international development. Payal's PhD candidate from the University of New South Wales focused on the area of ‘Actionable Knowledge’ in primary education. Prior to joining ACER, Payal served as a primary school teacher in the New South Wales public sector, complemented by roles in tertiary education and international development organisations including UNESCO. Beyond educational research, her interests encompass a deep fascination with the marine world, alongside a passion for classical Indian music and dance.