Catholic educators honoured
The National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) has released a list of recipients of the King’s Birthday Honours Order of Australia Medals (AM & OAM) who were recognised for contributions to Catholic education, the Church and other community services.
Included on the list are:
• Brigidine Sister Jane Irene Keogh was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to the community through social welfare and to primary education.
• Professor Lisa Kervin was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to tertiary education, and to research in early childhood digital literacy.
• Aunty Sue Bulger was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community of Tumut.
• Dominican Sister Helen Merrin was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to special needs education and to the Catholic Church in Australia.
• Dr Pauline Morgan was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the Catholic Church of Australia and to education.
• Sister Janet Mary Woods received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to secondary education and to the Catholic Church in Australia.
Read more.
Report confirms NSW child protection crisis
An auditor-general’s report reveals NSW’s child protection system is in crisis, described as ‘inefficient, ineffective, and unsustainable.’
The Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) is criticised for only responding to families in crisis, leading to more child removals.
Due to privatisation, the DCJ struggles to monitor children in out-of-home care effectively, resulting in almost 500 children living in costly and unsuitable environments.
General secretary of the Public Service Association (PSA) Stewart Little emphasised the chronic understaffing and the need to end privatisation
He highlighted that only one in four at-risk children are seen by caseworkers, calling for urgent reforms to protect vulnerable children.
Boys and young men do not have to die
While girls often discuss their issues, boys and young men remain silent, leading to alarming suicide rates. Ambulances respond to nearly 18,000 calls annually for males experiencing suicidal thoughts or attempts. Suicide is the leading cause of death for men aged 15 to 44, particularly in rural areas.
Educational consultant and author Susanne Gervay stresses the importance of open dialogue between boys and girls. Her book, The Edge of Limits, aims to engage boys in understanding their identity and emotions, encouraging schools to foster honest discussions despite fears of criticism.
This Men’s Health Week, she’s calling on communities to break the silence.
‘It is essential that boys/young men and girls/women talk to each other in a safe space’, she said.
Support resources:
Emergency: 000 (or 112 from a mobile)
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
In brief
The Australian government’s recently released Early Years Strategy aims to improve children’s lives by coordinating policies and programs over the next decade. It prioritises valuing early childhood, involving parents, caregivers, and children themselves in decision-making. Download a copy here. https://www.dss.gov.au/families-and-children-programs-services/early-years-strategy
Brisbane barrister Madeline Brennan KC has been appointed as the independent chair of the Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC).
Pope Francis has appointed Very Reverend Joe Caddy AM VG as the 12th Bishop of Cairns. Fr Joe, 64, a Melburnian, was ordained in 1990 and has extensive experience in pastoral care and social services.
Magdalene Catholic College, Narellan student Caitlyn Halse, 17, is the youngest player to play international Test Rugby for Australia, making her debut for the Wallaroos in Melbourne against the US.
The UN has declared 2025 to be the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Join the national celebration here.
What’s On
Formation for Mission Catholic Educators Gathering: Diocesan directors and leaders of formation, mission and religious education across Catholic education (both in Diocesan and RI & MPJP school authorities) will come together to share practice in a range of areas related to formation for mission.
Date: 13-14 August 2024.
Register here.
Download the brochure.
Busking for change 2024: Students will learn and perform a song in a First Nations language, performing it on Indigenous Literacy Day, 4 September to raise funds to support remote Indigenous communities. Schools raising at least $50 will receive a book pack with bilingual children’s books. The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) invites primary schools to register now. #BuskingForChange #BFC2024
Watch the video: Busking for Change.
Introduction to mission: Catholic Mission and BBI-TAITE offer the eight-week online course, starting 22 July. It’s designed for leaders, teachers, and volunteers in Catholic organisations, with one-hour modules released weekly until 16 September.
Catholic Education Western Australia is seeking applications for the role of executive director. Applications close 1 July. Read more.