Dr Joy de Leo has worked in the field of education for over 35 years in both the public and private sectors, in policy, curriculum development, educational administration and teaching at all levels. She has worked with Indigenous and culturally diverse migrant communities, international students, teachers, teacher educators and student teachers throughout the Asia Pacific region in Education for Sustainable Development.

Her roles have included Principal Policy Adviser to CEO Education SA, Regional Director AusAID SA, Director Multicultural SA, Founding President UNESCO-APNIEVE Australia. Member of: the Australian National Commission for UNESCO, National Human Rights Education Committee, UNESCO's Asia Pacific Regional Group of Experts on Education for Sustainable Development, and of the Australian National Green Skills Advisory Implementation Group.

Joy has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal for public service.