FROM THE FRONT
16-05-08: A BUDGET OF PROMISE
Representing the hopes, fears and expectations of parents of public school students around the country is often a heavy responsibility but, as the President of ACSSO, I do get the occasional opportunity to gain some special insight into how our country operates.
The Federal Budget is a case in point.
From the lock-up, fuelled by a keen sense of expectation and high hopes, to the formal presentation on the floor of the Parliament, I was able to observe at close hand the process that decides how our money will be spent.
It was fascinating to watch such a complex, detailed plan being brought into clear shape and focus as a framework for the future, and then to work out the implications for the public education system.
I'm glad to say we back this education budget, which we view as a thoughtful plan that addresses key issues without heating up the economy ... read more
21-04-08: 2020 VISION
Parliament House. The steps lined with reporters. Crowded with the famous, the politicians - the best and brightest in the nation - and me.
A beautiful clear calm Canberra morning - yet I could feel the shared excitement, the sense of opportunity. So many feelings running through my mind. I knew something special was about to happen - and I was going to be part of it.
Brought together in the Great Hall like a precision military operation. Proud to be Australian as we all sang the National Anthem together. Then the Prime Minister’s inspirational speech of what this might deliver for the future of Australia.
The challenges were exhilarating. Think big, wide, long-term, inclusive and linked-up. Think outcomes and impacts. The things that will take us forward together to a future we can only guess at. The future our children will inherit ... read more
21-02-08: THREE LOVE
Report from Parliament House, Canberra by Jenny Branch, President of ACSSO
All the executive representatives of the two national parent organisations were there in the House of Representatives wing as Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard went to the microphone.
For many, this was the first time they would meet the Minister.
Julia Gillard was going to bring us news about a particular decision.
Whether or not the Government would fulfil its election promise to fund ACSSO and APC's proposal to establish and run a Family School and Community Partnership Bureau ... read more
14-02-08: SORRY IT TOOK SO LONG Report from Parliament House Canberra by ACSSO Executive Director Terry Aulich
Thousands were on the lawns, others waited patiently in long lines to get into Parliament House. Young, old, indigenous, non-indigenous; they had come from all over the country. The mood was quiet and determined as if a long overdue obligation was about to be fulfilled.
Then, it happened. The Parliament opened with a prayer and Kevin Rudd walked to the despatch box and went straight to the heart of the matter, saying the word that most Australians had waited so long to hear. Sorry. Without equivocation, without qualification. Sorry ... read more
