Executive Director’s Update to Principals #17 - 24 April 2025

Federal Election 2025 – Important Information for Catholic School Communities

As we approach the Federal Election on 3 May 2025, Catholic school communities have an important role in engaging with key issues that affect our sector. The National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) has developed a range of resources to support school leaders and families in understanding and advocating for Catholic education priorities.

These key priorities are:

1. Ensure affordability and choice – every family should have the option of a Catholic education
2. Address hardship, wellbeing, and disadvantage – every student deserves access to quality education and the right support, no matter their background
3. Build and innovate for the future – investing in school infrastructure and support for early childhood education.

It is crucial that staff and parents understand where their local candidates stand on these key issues. Principals are encouraged to review and share the following key resources with their school communities:

• Parent Priorities Document – A two-page overview of key issues for families.
• Briefing Document for School Leaders – A four-page summary for school leadership teams.
• School Funding Explainer – Clarifies how Catholic Schools are funded.
• Dispelling the Myths – Addresses common misconceptions about Catholic education.
• What You Need to Know: Federal Election 3 May – Read more here.

The major political parties, the Greens and Independent candidates have been asked to provide their commitment to the Catholic education priorities. Further to this, the NCEC has released a Federal Election Scorecard to highlight where political parties and key independent candidates stand on issues of importance for Catholic Schools.

The Role of Catholic Voters

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has released a statement emphasising the role of Catholics in shaping Australia’s future through informed and active participation in the election. Principals are encouraged to share this statement with their school communities:

• Media Statement – Catholics have a vital role in shaping Australia’s future.
• Election Statement – Released by the Bishops Commission for Life, Family and Public Engagement. Read the full statement here.

Engaging with Members of Parliament

Elected representatives regularly visit Catholic schools for official openings, presentations, and community events. Principals are encouraged to continue welcoming MPs and candidates during the election period while ensuring an impartial and apolitical approach. Key guidelines include:

• Schools may invite local MPs or candidates to events but should provide opportunities for all candidates to attend.
• MPs and candidates must not use school visits for campaigning, election commitments, or political statements.
• Schools should notify DOBCEL of any visits, including those from Ministers or the Prime Minister/Premier.

For full guidance on managing school visits, media protocols, and maintaining impartiality, please refer to the following detailed advice provided by the Victorian Catholic Education Authority (VCEA).

A Communications Piece for Families

As we move closer to election day, it is essential that our Catholic school communities are well-informed and engaged in advocating for the future of Catholic education.

To aid you in communicating the relevant information to your school communities, the following Communications Piece has been prepared. Please distribute this to families ahead of the election.

All of the relevant documents are linked throughout this update and can also be downloaded from the list below for your convenience.

Thank you for your leadership in sharing these resources and ensuring balanced engagement with the political process.