Principals Secure National Advisory Role to Federal Education Minister   

Monday July 8 2024

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The Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education convened an important roundtable with the nation's peak principal associations on 28 June 2024 to discuss ways the Australian Government can further support school leader and principal wellbeing and efficacy.

In a demonstration of solidarity, the peak associations presented jointly developed proposals for research and professional support mechanisms to retain and sustain school leaders, and for ongoing engagement on national education policy.

 

Minister Clare committed to ongoing collaboration with the nine associations through a national reference group that will become a regular part of his engagement with the profession, ensuring the voice of the nation’s principals is heard on national education policy.

 

The roundtable was attended by leaders of the Australian Secondary Principals Association (ASPA), the Australian Primary Principals Association (APPA), the Australian Government Primary Principals Association (AGPPA), the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Association (NATSIPA), the Australian Special Education Principals Association (ASEPA), the Australian Catholic Primary Principals Association (ACPPA), the Catholic Secondary Principals Association (CASPA), the Independent Primary Schools Heads of Australia (IPSHA) and the Association of Heads of Independent Schools Australia (AHISA) on 28 June in Sydney.

 

ASPA President, Andy Mison, said Minister Clare’s receptive approach and genuine understanding of the challenges faced by school leaders from all sectors were welcomed.

 

 “This signals a new partnership between policymakers and those on the front lines of education," he said.

 

Formalising a national principals’ reference group is a significant achievement, providing school leaders a direct and ongoing opportunity to contribute to national policy.

 

“When principals are supported and involved in the design of school policy, everyone benefits," added Mison. "This collaborative approach will support initiatives, contribute to a fulfilling environment for teachers, and better outcomes for students." ASPA commends Minister Clare for his leadership and commitment to partnering with school leaders for a stronger, fairer, and more effective education system.

 

Media enquiries: Andy Mison 0400 202 088

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About ASPA:

The Australian Secondary Principals Association (ASPA) is the national peak body representing government secondary school leaders in every Australian state and territory.