School mathematics leaders play a significant role in leading improvement in mathematics education in schools. An online survey was administered to obtain an overview of the current nature of the role of the school mathematics leader. Responses were received from 56 primary school mathematics leaders from Victorian government schools. Findings based on leaders' views contributed to building a picture of the complex nature of the role. Survey responses suggested the impact of school mathematics leaders was often compromised by lack of time, confidence, expertise and funding. The extent of classroom teaching, teacher content knowledge and principal support also impacted on effectiveness of the role.