December 9, 2024
 

Andy Mison, President and Executive Director of the Australian Secondary Principals' Association (ASPA), today welcomed the second meeting of the National Principal Reference Group with the Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education. “ASPA has long advocated for a unified national voice representing school leaders and their communities," Mison stated. "We're incredibly proud of the role ASPA has played in helping to establish this vital group, bringing together the collective wisdom and experience of principals from across the country. It's a significant step forward, and we're optimistic about the potential for positive change from this collaboration.”

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The Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education, met with the new National Principal Reference Group in Sydney on Friday 22 November 2024. The Reference Group comprises the nine national peak principal associations, representing principals and school leaders across all school sectors and levels of education in Australia, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander principals and principals working in special education. The Reference Group will bring their expertise and knowledge to issues of national importance in school education.

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The Reference Group discussed a range of issues including implementation and support for the reform directions in the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, the National Teacher Workforce Action Plan and teacher registration issues.

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A strong focus of the meeting was on ways to better support principal and school leader wellbeing and efficacy. There was broad recognition of the challenges facing principals and school leaders, including high workloads, teacher shortages and increasing levels of violence and abuse. Minister Clare committed to work with principal associations and sector stakeholders on potential new measures proposed by the group.

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Mison added, “While this initial meeting is a promising start, we recognise that ongoing commitment and action are vital. The nine Associations comprising the group has sent a follow-up letter to Minister Clare outlining key election commitments we believe are essential to support the wellbeing and efficacy of principals. This includes supporting research and implementing practical measures to address the challenges they face.  ASPA remains committed to working constructively with all stakeholders to achieve the best possible outcomes for our students and communities.”

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Media enquiries: Andy Mison 0400 202 088