Greens’ claims refuted amid calls for funding reforms
The National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) has rejected claims by Greens Senator Penny Allman-Payne that non-government schools do not support disadvantaged students.
NCEC executive director Jacinta Collins called the statement ‘absurd’ and ‘incorrect,’ saying Catholic schools are educating a growing number of disadvantaged students, particularly in rural and remote areas.
‘Over 42 per cent of our students come from the lowest socio-educational quartiles,’ she said, stressing that all schools, not just government ones, face challenges in addressing disadvantage. She called for more resources to help all students succeed.
The comments come as Catholic School Parents Australia (CSPA) advocates for sustainable funding for remote Indigenous boarding students.
The group criticises current funding as inadequate, placing financial strain on families and schools.
It urges the government to collaborate with Indigenous communities and educational institutions to create a long-term strategy that supports families, provides resources for schools, and respects Indigenous culture.
In addition, the parent representative group is calling for Commonwealth teaching scholarships to be made accessible across all school sectors, including Catholic schools, to address the national teacher shortage.
The group argues that scholarships should be awarded based on merit and need, not school type, to ensure all schools can attract qualified teachers.
CSPA emphasises the need for a fairer, more inclusive funding approach to benefit all students, regardless of the sector.
Youth homelessness crisis demands urgent action
Youth homelessness in Australia remains at alarming levels, with thousands of young people aged 15-24 seeking crisis support each year.
Despite increased government investment, the number of young Australians facing homelessness has not significantly decreased, with around a quarter of those seeking help aged 15-17.
Experts warn that family violence remains the leading cause, disproportionately affecting young women, First Nations youth, and LGBTIQ+ individuals.
The call for action is growing. The Home Time Youth Housing Coalition is demanding 15,000 dedicated youth tenancies and the removal of financial barriers to housing.
Popular course boosts teacher mental health
A five-fold increase in enrolments for the Teachers’ Mental Health: The First Five Years university unit is helping pre-service and early career teachers manage their wellbeing.
Led by Dr Debra Phillips, the initiative includes an online resource and a symposium in May, aiming to equip teachers with tools to maintain their mental health.
Dr Phillips stressed the importance of supporting teachers for better outcomes and retention, saying, ‘To teach well is to be well.
This effort is led by Australian Catholic University (ACU).
Time to get swapping
The Indigenous Literacy Foundation’s (ILF) Great Book Swap is back for 2025, celebrating reading, supporting Indigenous languages and culture, and raising funds for literacy in remote First Nations communities. Participants swap a favourite book for a donation to the ILF.
ILF Ambassador Andy Griffiths launched the campaign at the Australian Museum in Sydney on 5 March. First Nations students from local schools joined the event, taking part in the book swap and then exploring the Burra (eel) interactive space, with activities led by First Nations educators, including scat and animal matching in Gundungarra language.
This year, ILF aims to raise $300,000 to donate 30,000 culturally relevant books.
ILF CEO Ben Bowen said access to quality books is important.
‘Having culturally relevant books in language is a fundamental human right and builds on intergenerational strength’
What’s on
Media internship program – applications close this month: Internship participants work with us for a week over Zoom to write and compile the September edition of Australian Catholics magazine. It is an immersive work experience program. The theme of the edition will be 'Voices of hope'. The deadline for applications for this year's program 5pm (AEDT) on Friday, 21 March 2024. Find out how to apply here.
A Living Hope – Guided Retreat: Weekend retreat at the Santa Teresa Spirituality Centre, exploring ‘living hope’ in response to Pope Francis’ Jubilee Year call. Take time to connect with God through personal prayer, group discussion, and fellowship.
Date and time: 5pm Friday, 4 April to 1pm Sunday, AEST 6 April 2025.
Location: Santa Teresa Spirituality Centre, Ormiston
Cost: $250 live out, $450 live in
Hosted by Brisbane Archdiocesan Ministries Adult Formation team.
Vatican photography contest: Photographers under 25 can enter Sport in Motion, celebrating the Jubilee of Sport 2025. Five categories, grand prises, and a meeting with the Pope. Submit by: 30 April 2025 | Details here.
2025 Young Voices Awards: the theme is ‘Voices of hope’, echoing that of the 2025 Jubilee Year ‘Pilgrims of hope’. The competition is open to secondary school and senior primary school students – junior (years 5 and 6); intermediate (years 7 to 9); or senior (years 10 to 12). Each section has three entry categories: articles, photographs and digital (video or podcast) and prizes will be awarded for each category. Find out more here.
Mission – One Heart, Many Voices Conference: Join experts for a dialogue on inclusive mission leadership.
19–21 May 2025, Sydney | More: 2025.mohmv.com.au
2025 Australian Catholic Education Conference: Registration is now open for the conference, which is taking place 20-22 August at the Cairns Convention Centre. Find out more.