Executive Director’s Update to Principals #36 - 22 July 2025

Matthew O'Brien Announcement

I write to inform you that Mr Matthew O’Brien has advised me he will conclude his position as Principal of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Warrnambool, effective at the end of the 2025 school year.

Matt joined the St Joseph’s community as Principal in 2021. During his time at St Joseph’s, Matt has made significant contributions to the learning and teaching practices in the school, with a particular focus on student learning, wellbeing, and curriculum development. Matt has supported staff in working collaboratively to develop an engaging curriculum and to deliver high-quality teaching and learning for all students. Over the years, Matt has developed the leadership capabilities of others, which has contributed to building a professional, effective, and cohesive staff.

I would also like to acknowledge the contributions Matt has made to Catholic Education more broadly over his 39-year career, spanning both the Melbourne Archdiocese and the Ballarat Diocese. In this time, Matt has taught across all year levels and held many leadership positions, including Religious Education Leader, Curriculum Leader, Deputy Principal and an Education Officer for Catholic Education Ballarat. Matt entered principalship when he was appointed as Interim Principal at St Patrick’s Koroit for three terms, spanning 2018 and 2019, which led him to the Principal’s role at St Joseph’s in 2021.

Matt has also exhibited a great love of learning, not just in relation to children but also for himself. Throughout his career, Matt gained a wide range of qualifications, including a Diploma of Education, a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Educational Leadership. Matt has been a dedicated servant of Catholic education, willingly sharing his knowledge and skills gained from his extensive educational experiences.

Matt has demonstrated great commitment to all members of the St Joseph’s community and Parish, working tirelessly to build a strong sense of engagement and belonging, placing great importance on the development of the whole person.

Our wider diocesan education community is also grateful to Matt for his passionate and willing contributions through local, zone and Diocesan Principal networks.

I ask that you join me in offering our gratitude to Matt for his wonderful contributions to our community and every blessing for the next phase of his journey.

Ensuring a smooth transition to the next principal of St Joseph’s is a high priority, and a consultation and advertising process will shortly commence. We will share further information about this process over the coming weeks.