The federal election campaign is well underway and advocacy on behalf of Catholic schools is taking place at various levels. QCEC has been active in talking to the Government and Opposition about key issues in Catholic education.  In particular, we have been focused on early learning opportunities. QCEC has written to both the Government and Opposition advocating for assistance with capital funding to increase kindergarten infrastructure. This would support both major parties’ commitment to increasing participation in pre-school education.

The National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) is also arranging a number of meetings with key players in the political landscape to ensure the voice of the Catholic education sector is heard in this election.  Next Tuesday, 30 April, Opposition Education spokeswoman Tanya Plibersek will address a forum in Sydney to discuss issues pertaining to Catholic schools.  Education Minister Dan Tehan was also invited to the forum but is unable to attend due to other commitments.  The forum will be webcast and we will make details available as soon as they are known.

NCEC will be issuing an election newsletter each week during the campaign.  The first edition was issued last week and the next one is due out Friday.  Please circulate this newsletter to your schools and networks to ensure all those with an interest in Catholic education are kept up to date.