National schools body says Vic gov’s payroll tax pressures families and teachers
Plans by the Victorian Government to remove the payroll tax exemption on some non-government schools are irrational and unprecedented, national Catholic education executive director Jacinta Collins said today. 'The move by the Victorian government has serious cost of living implications and puts greater pressure on school fees and a teaching workforce that is already under considerable strain' Ms Collins said.
'National Catholic school leaders have expressed concern today at the Victorian government’s decision that has been made without consultation and is outside of the National School Reform Agreement.
Ms Collins said the tax, that may impact on non-government secondary schools charging $7,500 or more in school fees, is inconsistent with the minimum fee expectations of the national school funding model. Read more.
Child maltreatment effects persist well into adulthood
The Australian Child Maltreatment Study (ACMS) team found the harm associated with experiences of child maltreatment crystallise early and have long-lasting effects. The report found differences are evident by age 24, and appear to persist over life, with differences still being apparent in people 45 years and older. The ACMS has found Australians who experience maltreatment are substantially more likely to have mental health disorders, health risk behaviour and are more frequent users of health services. Read more.
Thinking about where to begin
This year National Child Protection Week (3-9 September) will continue to champion the message ‘Every child in every community needs a fair go’. The aim of the week is to promote a safe and healthy life for every child, now and into the future. In 2023, the message will be complemented with the theme ‘Where we start matters’. Get involved.
Expert says spiritual direction might help teachers
Offering spiritual direction to teachers could transform Catholic school communities according to the National Head of School of Theology at Australian Catholic University. Associate Professor Michael T Buchanan said spiritual direction could be an effective, non-threatening option for all staff members including those who do not identify as Catholic but are committed to working in Catholic schools.
‘Drawing on the skills of spiritual direction would allow an approach to formation that enables a teacher make sense of who they are, as a person dedicated to a vocation and the practice of being a teacher in a Catholic school.’
Understanding the Referendum
Need help understanding the Indigenous Constitutional Recognition through a Voice?
An online course might just be the answer. Individuals can do the 15-20 minute course, or perhaps have a wider parish or group meeting to discuss the Voice and the information raised. It is hoped that the more people are informed about the issues, the more constructive and productive debates will be. Find out more.
Alternatively, Catholic Social Services Victoria and Catholic Social Services Australia have opened registration for their three-part webinar series on this year’s Voice to Parliament Referendum. The webinar series begins tonight at 4pm, followed by events on 29 June and 27 July. Registration is essential to be sent the online link. Tickets for CSSV & CSSA members are free and non-members can purchase tickets for $12 per session or $30 for all three sessions. Find out more.
Giringai man honours grandmother for supporting his education
Respected Koori historian, researcher, educator and author, Uncle James Wilson-Miller has accepted an honorary doctorate from Australian Catholic University on behalf of the woman who first encouraged him to read and write. Uncle James, a member of the Gringai clan of the Wonnarua people of the Hunter Valley in NSW, received a Doctor of the University, ACU’s highest honour, in Sydney on 18 May. Dedicating the doctorate to his grandmother Jean Miller, who raised and protected him after her own seven children were traumatically stolen from her, he said that though she was limited in her education she encouraged him to go to school every day.
Giringai man honours grandmother for supporting his education
Respected Koori historian, researcher, educator and author, Uncle James Wilson-Miller has accepted an honorary doctorate from Australian Catholic University on behalf of the woman who first encouraged him to read and write. Uncle James, a member of the Gringai clan of the Wonnarua people of the Hunter Valley in NSW, received a Doctor of the University, ACU’s highest honour, in Sydney on 18 May. Dedicating the doctorate to his grandmother Jean Miller, who raised and protected him after her own seven children were traumatically stolen from her, he said that though she was limited in her education she encouraged him to go to school every day.
What’s On
The Young Voices Awards (YVA) 2023 close tomorrow! The theme is ‘Climate for change’. Find out more.
Jesuit Mission Webinar – Hope for Families Fleeing Ukraine: During the 45-minute webinar, special guest Fr Marius Talos SJ, project partner of Jesuit Mission and Director of Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Romania, will provide an update on the Jesuits’ emergency response, uplifting vulnerable families who fled to Romania. Thursday 1 June at 6:00pm AEST. Register here https://jesuitmission.org.au/ukraine-webinar.
2023 QHTA State History Conference: The program assists teachers with implementing state and national curriculum documents, pedagogical approaches, historical thinking, knowledges and skills, Information Technology, as well as considering interesting historical topics, issues and arguments.
Where: Brisbane Girls Grammar School.
When: Saturday, 24 June 2023, 9am-4pm
Theme: Voices
Find out more.
LUMINOUS Lantern Parade 2023 (Qld): 9 June, 5.30-8.30pm
Southbank Parklands; Clem Jones Promenade South Brisbane QLD 4101
Welcome people from a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds to Queensland by attending this event at Southbank or at one of the satellite events. Find out more about Southbank here and other neighbourhoods here.