Decades before the emergence of public education in the country, Australia had established Catholic Church schools and educational charities.

Australia – Canberra (02/07/2021 22:40, Gaudium Press) On the occasion of the bicentenary of the establishment of the Catholic Church’s teaching apostolate in Australia, five federal parliamentarians have promoted a tribute to the Church for its role in spreading education over the past two centuries.

“It gives me great pleasure to rise today to recognize the bicentenary of Catholic education in Australia,” said MP Julie Ownes, noting that, “Two of the schools in my electorate, St Patrick’s Parramatta and Parramatta Marist High School, have their origins as the first schools on Hunter Street.”

Ownes also congratulated all Catholic schools, “On what is now their third century. Congratulations to the teachers, staff, and students on this incredible achievement. I know we will see many more great achievements in the years to come.”

Catholic schools in Australia were established before public schools

Decades before the emergence of public education in the country, Australia had Catholic Church schools and educational charities, where children from all walks of life received a quality education.

One of the MP’s pointed out that “This legacy was not only formative in Australia’s history but continues to serve the Australian community today, with the incredible service that Catholic schools provide to families and communities.”

One in five students attend an institute of Catholic learning

According to Bennelong John Alexander, Church-run schools have become the largest non-governmental education providers in the country. He states that one in five school-age students attend a Catholic institution.

“Catholic schools will continue to represent a vital part of the Australian education landscape in the future. This government is committed to continuing to support Catholic schools,” concluded Mr. Alexander. (EPC)

Compiled by Sandra Chisholm