Dear Friends,

As we move into August, our Catholic social service community is preparing for a genuinely significant occasion – the CSSA 70th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Parliamentary Advocacy Summit on the 12th and 13th of this month. This landmark event promises to be a powerful moment of reflection, inspiration, and connection.

I am overwhelmed to share that the Holy Father has graced our event with his Apostolic Blessing and greetings to mark the occasion. His Holiness joins us in giving thanks to God for CSSA’s witness to the Gospel and positive contribution to Australian society over seventy years. It was particularly pleasing to see the Holy Father make reference to CSSA’s Gospel theme: “as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me” (Mt 25:35-36). This is a wonderful recognition of love, compassion, and mercy of Australian Catholic social services across our seventy years. The Holy Father’s message is provided below.

We are thrilled to welcome former Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull as the distinguished speaker of the McCosker Oration at the Gala Dinner. Mr. Turnbull’s longstanding commitment to bringing his Catholic faith into the public square gives me confidence of an evening of thoughtful and timely reflection on Australia’s current challenges and opportunities. Adding to the evening’s significance, Minister Ged Kearney will officially open the Gala Dinner, underscoring the importance of social justice and community services in shaping Australia’s future.

The two-day event will begin with a Mission, Formation and Governance workshop designed to provide valuable insights and practical guidance for members, strengthening the foundations of mission-centred leadership in Catholic social services. The second day of the Summit will bring together leaders and members to engage with critical themes and speakers shaping our sector and country’s future. The entire event is an unmissable opportunity to deepen our shared submission and renew our commitment to serving those most in need.

I would like to mark a heartfelt farewell to Archbishop Charles Balvo, Apostolic Nuncio to Australia. Archbishop Charles has been a great friend of CSSA and the Church in Australia, known for his warm humour, excellent singing voice, and wise spiritual guidance. After more than five years dedicated service in Australia, he returns to New York City to be closer to family. We thank God for his faithful service and the many friendships he has forged across Australia. His presence and leadership are sorely missed.

I am blessed to continue to visit CSSA members around the country, and I had a truly wonderful week in Western Australia recently. I am thankful to Centacare Kimberley CEO, Ashely Ubrihien, for hosting me and allowing me to see firsthand the excellent work being done in Broome and right across the region. Bishop Tim Norton was very kind to make time for me during my visit. I always find great value and encouragement in conversations with our Bishops around the country, and this occasion was no exception.

Whist in the West, I was honoured to deliver this year’s Mary MacKillop Oration in Perth, hosted by the Archdiocese of Perth and Catholic Social Services WA. The event was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the legacy of Australia’s first saint and the enduring call to serve those most in need. I also attended the launch of Lifelink and the dedication of the Stella Maris Centre in Rockingham – both inspiring events that highlight the vital work being done to support vulnerable communities in the region.

In late July, leaders from Catholic social service agencies in southeast New South Wales, Canberra, and Victoria came together in Melbourne for a two-day gathering hosted by CatholicCare Victoria. The opportunity to meet face-to-face and share experiences was invaluable, strengthening our connections and collective mission. I would be very interested to hear if other regions are keen to facilitate similar gatherings, as these moments of collaboration and mutual learning are genuinely worthwhile.

The CSSA Board have approved our strategy for the next five years – Building for the Common Good – and we will be releasing this shortly. We have revised our Vision and Mission and there is information about this in the sections below. The Gospel theme the Holy Father mentioned in his letter is a wonderful addition to our public persona and identity.

The team have been extremely busy working for our community and some of their work is highlighted below. I am thankful for the people we have attracted and for the fine work they do in pursuit of our collective goals.

I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in Canberra and thank you for your ongoing dedication, compassion, and love.

His Holiness Pope Leo XIV sends cordial greetings and the assurance of his spiritual closeness to all marking the seventieth anniversary of the founding of Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA), taking place on the 12 August 2026.

His Holiness joins you in giving thanks to Almighty God for CSSA's witness to the Gospel and its positive contribution to Australian society over these years, and he prays that this occasion will inspire the staff, volunteers and supporters to renew their commitment to preaching the Good News of our salvation to all people, especially the marginalized and most in need of God's love. Indeed, being made in God's image, our inherent human dignity can often be hidden in those who are disenfranchised, vulnerable and disadvantaged, just as the divinity of our Lord was not immediately obvious to those he encountered.

The Holy Father therefore invites those present to recall the words of Jesus who identified himself in a special way with those most in need, stating that "as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me" (cf. Mt 25:35-36). At the same time, he encourages your ongoing efforts to advocate for those without a voice, keeping in mind that "the moral greatness of a nation is manifested, above all, in its capacity to accompany, protect and love those lives that are most fragile." (Meeting with Members of the Spanish Parliament, 8 June 2026). With the assurance of prayers that your work will bear lasting fruit for the Australian people, Pope Leo XIV imparts his Apostolic Blessing as a sign of joy and hope in the Lord.

Catholic Social Services Australia's Strategic Placemat provides a concise overview of the organisation's purpose, direction and priorities. It brings together our Vision, Mission, Gospel Theme, Values and Strategic Impact Priorities for 2026–2031, demonstrating how our work is grounded in Catholic Social Teaching and guided by the Gospel call to serve "the least of these" (Matthew 25:40).

The placemat outlines our commitment to empowering Catholic social service providers, strengthening collaboration, and advocating for policies that uphold the dignity and wellbeing of vulnerable Australians. The Placemat highlights the key areas where we will focus our efforts over the next five years, including Closing the Gap, housing and homelessness, family support and domestic violence, and disability and dignity, ensuring our work continues to build stronger, more compassionate and inclusive communities.

From Right to left: Dr Jerry Nockles, CSSA Chief Executive Officer with Annemaree Binger, Chief Executive Officer at Centacare South West NSW; Michael Austin, Chief Executive Officer at CatholicCare Wollongong; Anne Kirwan, Chief Executive Officer at Marymead CatholicCare Canberra & Goulburn and  Agnes Sheehan, Chief Executive Officer at CatholicCare Victoria

CSSA joined Catholic social service leaders from across south-east New South Wales, Canberra and Victoria in Melbourne for a two-day leadership gathering dedicated to strengthening collaboration across our national network.

Hosted by CatholicCare Victoria, the gathering provided an opportunity for leaders to exchange insights on integrated service models, workforce sustainability, funding reform and strategic advocacy and through open dialogue and shared learning, all leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working together to better support individuals, families and communities experiencing vulnerability. Read more about it here.

Dr Jerry Nockles, CSSA Chief Executive Officer  delivering the 2026 St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Oration at the Duxton Hotel, Perth,

In the month of June, I had the privilege of delivering the 2026 St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Oration in Perth, hosted by the Archdiocese of Perth and Catholic Social Services WA.

The Oration invited us to reflect on what I believe is one of the defining challenges of our time: to look through difference and see dignity.

Drawing on the witness of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, the courage of Dr Martin Luther King Jr., and the wisdom of Catholic Social Teaching, I reflected on the importance of recognising that beneath every label, every difference and every barrier is a person made in the image of God, worthy of dignity, compassion and love.

At a time when division and polarisation can too easily shape our public discourse, I believe we are called to respond differently—to see beyond our differences, embrace our shared humanity, and, in the spirit of St Mary MacKillop, "Never see a need without doing something about it."

This message lies at the heart of Catholic social services. Every day, I see our members living this mission by walking alongside people experiencing vulnerability, restoring hope and affirming the inherent dignity of every person.

If you have the opportunity, I warmly encourage you to watch the Oration or read the transcript. I hope it offers encouragement and inspires us all to continue building communities where every person is seen, valued and loved.

Watch the full Oration: https://youtu.be/ckIDLnGVNJ8?si=sSTMnP8lsPczDTgj

Read the written Oration here

Dr Jerry Nockles (L), CSSA Chief Executive Officer, with David Smith MP, Federal Member for Bean and Mark Parton MLA, Leader of the Opposition, Leader of the Canberra Liberals in ACT and Member for Brindabella in ACT Legislative Assembly.

CSSA team participated in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout - an experience that offered a small glimpse into the reality faced by far too many Australians experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this initiative. Thanks to your generosity, together we raised $3,586, helping to fund 11 support programs, provide 29 safe beds, and deliver 119 meals to people who need them most. 

Your support is a powerful reminder that when communities come together with generosity and a shared commitment to the Common Good, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those experiencing vulnerability. Thank you for your kindness, your encouragement and your ongoing commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.

Picture 1 - CSSA Director of Policy and Advocacy, Carmel Sefian; CSSV Executive Director, Josh Lourensz and CSSA Director of Strategic Engagement and Mission, Katie Walsh-Smith 

Picture 2 - CSSA Director of Strategic Engagement and Mission, Katie Walsh-Smith; Chief Mission Officer at VMCH, Marcelle Mogg and CSSA Director of Policy and Advocacy, Carmel Sefian

Catholic Social Services Australia team joined Catholic Social Services Victoria (CSSV) in celebrating a remarkable double milestone - 25 years as a state-wide body and 45 years as a peak community organisation in Newman College in Melbourne.

The Annual Dinner brought together leaders, members and partners from across the Catholic social services sector to reflect on CSSV's legacy of service, advocacy and compassion, while looking ahead to the opportunities and challenges of the future.

Most Reverend Joe Caddy AM, Bishop of Cairns, shared reflections on CSSV's journey and future direction reminded everyone of the enduring importance of faith-led leadership and our shared commitment to serving people and communities with dignity, compassion and hope.

Congratulations to Executive Director Josh Lourensz and the entire Catholic Social Services Victoria team on this significant achievement.

Picture 1 - Dr Jerry Nockles, CSSA Chief Executive Officer with Bishop Tim Norton, Bishop of Broome at Stella Maris, Rockingham

Picture 2 - Katie Walsh-Smith, CSSA Director of Strategic Engagement and Mission with Dr Robyn Miller, Chief Executive Officer of MacKillop Family Services

CSSA's team were delighted to spend time in Western Australia, connecting with members across Broome and Perth. During the visit, the team participated in a range of significant meetings and events, including engaging with Catholic Social Services Western Australia members, attending the launch of Lifelink 2026 in WA Catholic primary schools, meeting with the Western Australian Department of Communities, celebrating the blessing of the new Stella Maris Centre in Rockingham, participating in the Archdiocese of Perth Synodality Workshop, and attending the St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Oration. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships with our Western Australian members, deepen engagement with key partners, and celebrate the vital contribution Catholic social services make to communities across the state.

Neha Shetty, CSSA Communications Officer; The Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury and the Federal Member for Fenner and Carmel Sefian, CSSA Director of Policy and Advocacy.

CSSA was pleased to attend Dr Andrew Leigh MP's address at the National Press Club on 10 June 2026, where he spoke about the importance of strengthening community connection and rebuilding social trust. His address highlighted the vital role charities and the community sector play in bringing people together and fostering social cohesion. Dr Leigh also outlined the Australian Government's intention to develop a more coherent policy agenda for the sector, with a focus on reducing unnecessary regulatory and reporting burdens, encouraging greater individual philanthropy, corporate giving and volunteerism and strengthening partnerships between government and community organisations through existing reform initiatives. Read more about the address here.

Dr Jerry Nockles, CSSA Chief Executive Officer with His Eminence Mykola Bychok, Basilica of Santa Sofia (Saint Sophia) in Rome, Katie Walsh-Smith, CSSA Director of Strategic Engagement and Mission, Neha Shetty, CSSA Communications Officer, and Carmel Sefian, CSSA Director of Policy and Advocacy.

CSSA was delighted to attend the St Thomas More Parish and Forum Annual Dinner, joining faith leaders, community members and colleagues from across the Catholic sector for an evening of reflection and fellowship. We were deeply moved by the address from Cardinal Mykola Bychok, whose reflections on the Christian family as our "first church" highlighted the vital role families play in teaching us love, belonging, sacrifice and hope. The evening also reinforced the importance of coming together in faith, sharing experiences, listening to one another and renewing our shared commitment to serving those most in need.

CSSA have held two successful Communities of Practice (COP) with June’s session being “Measuring Excellence, Outcomes and Impact” with guest facilitator Mel McSeveny from CatholicCare Sydney. The session was intended to understand each organisation’s outcome and impact measurement maturity and share solutions and practical approaches to measuring the impact of a broad range of programs and services across our participating members.

A Community of Practice was held in July on “Working with ACCOs” and garnered significant interest from members who walk alongside and work closely with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations. The session was an opportunity to share insights into partnerships and building genuine trust and relationships with our First Nations Communities.

The next CSSA Community of Practice will be held on Wednesday 16th September on “Thriving Kids”. Registrations for the September CoP will open closer to the event, but if you have any questions, please email [email protected].

DSS Community Sector Advisory Group (CSAG) update:

CSAG has ramped up its engagement with the sector since mid-June 2026 to progress priority items and key reforms. CSSA has commenced regular ‘one-pager’ updates and email summaries for members covering all discussion items since the last quarterly CSAG meeting. The last update was circulated on 17 July and can be accessed here

Key updates include:

• Informal CSAG Working Groups commenced from late June 2026. Two meetings occurred throughout July 2026 (Data Exchange, Relational Contracting). Monthly Working Groups will continue from August to the end of 2026. CSSA will provide more frequent and informal sharing of information and updates with key topics including: the Children and Family Support (CaFS) program reform, Relational Contacting, ACCO transitions, SCHADS Awards changes, Indexation, Grants Reform, Social Cohesion.

• DSS is seeking feedback from service providers on its staff who are currently employed under the SCHADS Award, and interest in participating in an AIFS-led workshop on Data Exchange SCORE materials. Please contact [email protected] for further information.

• DSS has engaged with service providers eligible for recommissioning under the new CaFS program on draft Grant Opportunity Guidelines with feedback due 28 July 2026 and applications expected to be released in September 2026 for approx. 6 weeks.

• Read the latest CSAG Communique from 16 June 2026. 

• For further detail on CSAG please contact CSSA Director of Policy and Advocacy [email protected] 

Submissions, Consultations and Campaigns

DSS Relational Contacting Draft Documentation 

• CSSA’s submission on the new Relational Contracting commissioning model was submitted on 26 July 2026. While supporting Relational Contracting in principle, the submission offers suggestions for preparing to implement the model from the early ‘Test and Refine’ stage. 

• The Relational Contracting model will be trialled through the Department’s Children and Family Support (CaFS) program from 1 July 2027. CSSA thanks members for their previous contributions and will provide further CSAG updates as more draft documentation is released. Read CSSA’s submission here. 

DSS Second Action Plan (National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022-2032) 

• CSSA will be providing a brief submission to the Second Action Plan for the National Plan by 7 August 2026 (extension period), incorporating feedback provided at a CSAG member consultation workshop on 14 July 2026. 

• CSSA is happy to highlight members’ submissions in the CSSA submission. 

Submission to Treasury Consultation on Implementation of Government’s Reform of Trusts Taxation 

• CSSA’s submission on Treasury’s consultation on the implementation of reforms to discretionary trusts was submitted on 31 July 2026. The submission advocates for a carve-out or exemption from the 30 per cent minimum tax on discretionary trust income for donations made to (DGR charities, and for greater transparency and engagement on the policy formation process more broadly. Read CSSA’s submission here. 

Submission to the Productivity Commission Inquiry into Housing Supply Regulation 

• CSSA’s submission to the Productivity Commission into Housing Supply Regulation was submitted on 30 June 2026. The submission recommends that the Australian Government commission, through the National Cabinet, a comprehensive, whole-of-government audit and ongoing tracking of the regulatory burden on home buying and building. Read CSSA’s submission here. 

‘Breaking the Crisis Cycle’ campaign – Homelessness Australia 

• CSSA is proud to be supporting Homelessness Australia’s ‘Breaking the Crisis Cycle’ campaign which calls on state and federal ministers to invest in a National Mental Health Homelessness Prevention Program.
• The campaign urges governments to delivery 20,000 additional supportive housing places using Housing First principles, alongside a national tenancy sustainment program for people with psychosocial disability. The campaign aligns with key actions in the 2025-26 ACBC Social Justice Statement: ‘Signs of Hope on the Edge: Serving People Living in Homelessness and Mental Ill-Health’ including developing a national strategy to prevent people living with mental ill-health from becoming homeless after leaving hospitals, mental health facilities, and prisons and detention centres. 

• Further information about the ‘Breaking the Crisis Cycle’ campaign can be found here.

Research Projects

Real Costs, Real Impacts Program of Work

• CSSA and our research partners at the Centre for Public Value, UWA will present a proposed Program of Work at the next CSAG quarterly meeting on 22 September 2026. 

• The Program of Work is an invitation to work with Government through the DSS Community Grants Hub and the sector on resources and tools to be understand and apply pricing and costing frameworks for the quality delivery of social services. 

• The Program of Work directly contributes to Pillar 4 objectives under the Not-for-Profit Sector Development Blueprint (the Blueprint) to ‘improve the financial stability of the NFP sector’. 

• This work is part of broader sector advocacy efforts which recognise the need to improve the structural limitations applied to indexation within current Commonwealth grant arrangements.

• This work continues from key findings in the CSSA-commissioned ‘Real Costs, Real Impacts: a Path to Social Services Sustainability’ developed by the UWA. CSSA will provide a member briefing on the Program of Work in September 2026. 

Tracking Key Issues and Opportunities

CSSA is tracking developments on the following priorities:

• National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026. The Bill is now before the Senate with reporting expected on 14 August 2026. 

• Implications for the social services sector following the Fair Work Commission’s (FWC) decision on 2 June 2026 to raise award wages by 4.75% and the national minimum wage by 6%. 

• Implications for the social services sector following the FWC’s Gender-Based Undervaluation Priority Review: Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services (SCHADS) Award – Decision on 1 June 2026, including support to transition to the new system. 

• Inquiry into racism, hate and violence directed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people – the Committee is due to report on 15 September 2026. 

• Australia’s Offshore processing and resettlement arrangements – Review of the final Report released on 2 July 2026. 

• Australia’s youth justice and incarceration system – Final Report due 31 August 2026. 

What other consultations, inquiries or issues should CSSA be tracking? Please contact [email protected] for your suggestions. 

We extend our warmest congratulations to St Francis Social Services as they celebrate the 25th anniversary of their House of Welcome program. The program has provided safe housing, practical support and a welcoming community for refugees and people seeking asylum as they rebuild their lives in Australia. This milestone is a testament to the organisation's enduring commitment to dignity, compassion and hospitality, ensuring that those seeking safety are met with care, hope and opportunity.

A special congratulations also goes to Paula Washington, CEO of Centacare North Queensland, who is celebrating an outstanding 20 years of dedicated service to the organisation. Paula's leadership, commitment and passion have made a lasting impact on Centacare North Queensland, strengthening services, supporting vulnerable individuals and families, and helping the organisation grow its reach and impact across the region. We thank Paula for her two decades of dedicated service and congratulate her on this remarkable milestone.

We congratulate CatholicCare Diocese of Wollongong on being named a finalist in the Illawarra Business Awards for Outstanding Community Organisation. This well-deserved recognition reflects the organisation's unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality services and making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities throughout the Illawarra. We wish the team every success and commend them for their outstanding contribution to the community.

The Hon Malcolm Turnbull AC to Deliver McCosker Oration at Catholic Social Services Australia’s 70th Anniversary Gala Dinner

Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) is honoured to announce that The Hon Malcolm Turnbull AC will deliver the prestigious McCosker Oration at CSSA’s 70th Anniversary Gala Dinner, to be held at the Australian Parliament House in Canberra on 12 August 2026.

The McCosker Oration pays tribute to the legacy of Monsignor McCosker, whose commitment to social justice and the common good continues to inspire CSSA’s work across Australia.

CSSA CEO Dr Jerry Nockles spoke warmly about Mr Turnbull’s participation, highlighting the significance of this moment:

“We are truly honoured that Malcolm Turnbull will join us for this important occasion. His leadership and thoughtful engagement with the challenges facing our nation bring a depth and resonance that will greatly enrich the evening.”

Read the entire media release here.

CSSA calls for comprehensive audit of regulatory burden to improve housing supply and affordability for Australia’s most disadvantaged

Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) has called on the Australian Government to commission a comprehensive, whole of government audit of regulatory burden on home buying and building across the federation, to be conducted under the National Cabinet.

CSSA has made a formal submission to the Productivity Commission’s Inquiry into Housing Regulation calling for a comprehensive, whole-of-government audit of the regulatory burden on home buying and building across the federation. CSSA also contributed jointly with the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference through the Bishops Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service to the Senate Select Committee’s Inquiry into Intergenerational Housing Inequity, reinforcing the critical need to understand and address how regulation impacts housing supply and affordability.

Image credit – DAPA images

Read the entire media release here.

CSSA Launches Vital National Survey to Map the Impact of Catholic Social Services

Catholic Social Services Australia has launched a national initiative designed to gather detailed data on the operations, challenges and contributions of Catholic social service organisations across Australia.

As Australians face rising cost-of-living pressures, growing housing insecurity, increasing mental health concerns, and escalating family and domestic violence, Catholic social services continue to stand alongside those most in need – offering support, restoring dignity, and helping build pathways to safety and hope.

“Our sector is a beacon of compassion and resilience, yet our collective impact often remains overlooked in national conversations about social policy and funding,” CSSA chief executive Jerry Nockles said.

CSSA’s “State of the Sector Survey 2026 – Mapping the National Footprint of Catholic Social Services” initiative “is far more than just data collection”, Dr Nockles said.

“It is a vital opportunity to ensure the voices of Catholic social services and the communities we accompany are heard clearly and powerfully,” he said.

Read the entire media release here.

CSSA calls for transparent and robust enquiry into taxation changes and NDIS reform

Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) today calls on the Australian Government to support a more robust, comprehensive, and transparent enquiry into two significant legislative matters: the proposed changes to taxation arrangements, and the reform of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

In recent years, there has been a positive rise in public demand for transparency and good governance in legislative processes. This trend strengthens our democracy by ensuring that reforms are well-considered, effective, and reflective of community needs. Legislation and reform are invariably stronger when debate and enquiry are given the time and rigour they deserve.

“The Senate Committee system is one of the strongest pillars of our democratic Parliamentary framework,” said Dr Jerry Nockles, CEO of CSSA. “It must be allowed to do its work thoroughly and without undue pressure to rush decisions. Robust scrutiny and open dialogue are essential to crafting policies that serve the common good.”

Read the entire media release here.

Catholic Social Services Australia Congratulates Ben Carroll as New Premier of Victoria

Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) warmly congratulates Ben Carroll on his appointment as the Premier of Victoria. We look forward to continuing our work with the Victorian Government to support Catholic social service providers in their vital work accompanying Victoria’s most vulnerable communities.

CSSA CEO Dr Jerry Nockles said:
“We extend our sincere congratulations to Premier Carroll at this pivotal moment for Victoria. Catholic social service providers are committed to walking alongside those experiencing vulnerability, and we welcome the opportunity to work collaboratively with the government to advance policies that promote justice, inclusion, and compassion across the state.”

Image credit - CathNews

Read the entire media release here.

SAVE THE DATE

1) CSSA August Community of Practice - Thriving Kids

Date: 16th September 2026 (1 - 2 pm)

2) CSSA 2026 Parliamentary Advocacy Summit and 70th Anniversary event

Date: 12 - 13 August 2026

1) Head of Religion

Marist College, Emerald (QLD)

Application close date: 10 August 2026

Apply now

2) Director, Catholic Identity & Mission

Catholic Education South Australia (CESA)

Application close date: 17 August 2026

Apply now

3) Director, School Improvement Services

Catholic Education Diocese of Wagga Wagga (CEDWW)

Application close date: 06 August 2026

Apply now

4) Head of Student Wellbeing & Engagement

Catholic Education Diocese of Wagga Wagga (CEDWW)

Application close date: 06 August 2026

Apply now

5) Head of School Improvement

Catholic Education Diocese of Wagga Wagga (CEDWW)

Application close date: 06 August 2026

Apply now

6) Head of Curriculum and Pedagogy

Catholic Education Diocese of Wagga Wagga (CEDWW)

Application close date: 06 August 2026

Apply now

7) Pastoral Care Practitioner

VMCH

Application close date: 26 August 2026

Apply now

8) Principal

St Catherine’s Catholic College

Application close date: 16 August 2026

Apply now

9) National Director

Aid to the Church in Need (ACN)

Application close date: 23 August 2026

Apply now

10) Executive Director

Toowoomba Catholic Schools

Application close date: 22 August 2026

Apply now

1) Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Worker Retention Payment

This grant provides funding to support a wage increase for all eligible Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) workers. The initiative aims to strengthen the ECEC workforce by ensuring fair remuneration and improving workforce sustainability.

For more information or to apply, click here.

2) General Practice in Aged Care Incentive

The General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI) is designed to improve access to high-quality, proactive healthcare for older people living in residential aged care homes. It supports this by incentivising general practices to provide regular visits, structured care planning, and coordinated healthcare services.

Under the initiative, primary care providers and practices registered with MyMedicare receive incentive payments to deliver ongoing, planned care to their registered patients residing permanently in aged care facilities. 

For more information or to apply, click here.

3) 2026-2029 Indigenous Employment Initiative

The Indigenous Employment Initiative (IEI) provides funding to create entry-level employment and training opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the aged care sector. The program aims to build a skilled Indigenous workforce that can deliver culturally safe, trauma-aware, and healing-informed aged care services to older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, close to home and on Country.

The initiative supports workforce development, improves access to quality aged care services, and contributes to the Australian Government’s Closing the Gap targets. Funding is available through two streams: Stream One for selected organisations that have previously demonstrated successful delivery of the program and have been invited to apply, and Stream Two for organisations that meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the Grant Opportunity Guidelines.

For more information or to apply, click here.

4) Inclusion Support Program Guidelines

The Inclusion Support Program (ISP) aims to strengthen the capacity and capability of eligible Child Care Subsidy (CCS) approved early childhood education and care (ECEC) services to support the inclusion of children with additional needs. It focuses on addressing barriers to participation, ensuring all children can access, engage, and achieve positive learning outcomes alongside their peers in line with Approved Learning Frameworks.

The program also supports services to meet their obligations under the National Quality Framework (NQF), including alignment with the National Quality Standard (NQS), by promoting inclusive, equitable, and high-quality practices within early learning environments. 

For more information or to apply, click here.

As we approach the end of another financial year, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our member organisations for their continued support and partnership. Your commitment to our shared mission empowers CSSA to advocate for a more just, compassionate, and inclusive society.

Throughout the past year, we have worked together to strengthen the voice of the Catholic social services sector and support those experiencing disadvantage. The impact we have made is a testament to the dedication, generosity, and trust of members like you.

As we enter a new financial year, we warmly invite you to renew your membership and remain part of a community united by service, advocacy, and a commitment to the common good. Thank you for walking alongside us. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and look forward to continuing this journey together.

For those who are not yet members but feel aligned with our purpose, we warmly invite you to reach out to us for a private consultation. You may contact our National Office on (02) 6285 1366, or email us at [email protected].

We would be delighted to learn more about your organisation, your vision, and the mission that guides your work and explore how we may support you in moving forward.

God be with you,

Feel free to share this newsletter with your network, and if you haven’t subscribed yet, sign up now to receive regular updates, news, and insights from CSSA. Follow us on our social channels to stay connected, share your voice, and amplify our collective impact. We would love your support in expanding our online community!