Federal Election 2022

Both sides contesting the 2022 Federal election agree that Independent schools are central pillars of the Australian education system, alongside government and Catholic schools; that parents have a right to choose a school that best meets the needs of their children; and that all schools are entitled to government support based on need.

While these principles are not contested by the major parties, there are practical issues a newly elected government will have to address.

These include:

• The need for long-term funding certainty so that Independent schools can confidently plan ahead, including measures to address the negative impact on some schools of the new federal funding methodology
• Action to address the mental health and emotional wellbeing of students and school staff, many of whom have been under extraordinary additional stress due to disruption caused by COVID-19
• Support for ISV and interstate counterpart associations to ensure we can assist the implementation of national educational reforms and issues of national significance in Independent schools.

It’s possible that additional issues could emerge in the remaining weeks of the campaign. Our aim is to protect the autonomy and diversity of our Member Schools.

ISV Chief Executive Michelle Green elaborates on the election issues at stake for Independent schools in her Perspectives Blog:

Shane Green talks with ISV Chief Executive Michelle Green ahead of the federal election about the issues that matter to Independent schools, before and after polling day.

We are directly communicating with as many election candidates in Victoria as we practically can.

We will provide them with essential facts and figures about the role and importance of the Independent school sector, with specific reference to the schools in their respective electorates.

We’re also working with our interstate and national counterparts on coordinated communications activities, include direct engagement with the Acting Education Minister, Mr Stuart Robert, and his Opposition counterpart, Ms Tanya Plibersek.

Our key messages and other communications material will also be shared on our social media channels.

Exclusive political briefing presented by Paul Kelly

Nationally, ISV has collaborated with Independent Schools Australia and the Association of Independent Schools of New South Wales to host an exclusive political briefing presented by Paul Kelly, one of Australia’s foremost political analysts and commentators.

In this Zoom presentation, Mr Kelly will provide an informed outline of the political landscape, with a particular focus on issues affecting education and the Independent sector.

ISV Chief Executive Michelle Green will moderate questions in the session, which will also hear from ISA Chief Executive Officer Margery Evans on the key election issues facing the Independent school sector.

The event will be held on:

• Wednesday 11 May 2022 | 4.00-5.00pm (AEST)
• Via Zoom: Click here to join at time of meeting. Webinar ID: 929 1895 6281
  Add this meeting to your calendar.

ISV staff are on hand to assist you in any local political engagement you and your school community want to undertake.

We can provide you with school-related data relevant to your area, facts at a glance, talking points, and contact details for candidates.

Please contact ISV’s Chief Executive Michelle Green via the link below if you require any assistance.

Since 1949, Independent Schools Victoria has been dedicated to diversity and choice in education. Through advocacy and support, we help families access schools that match the needs and values of every student.

The following sources of information can help keep you and your school community informed on election issues related to education.