Statement of Democratic Principles

RATIONALE

The VRQA Minimum Standards for School Registration includes a standard concerning the school’s adherence to Australian democratic principles and practice. This standard is as follows:

The programs of, and teaching in, a school must support and promote the principles and practice of Australian democracy, including a commitment to:

  • elected Government;
  • the rule of law;
  • equal rights for all before the law;
  • freedom of religion;
  • freedom of speech and association;
  • the values of openness and tolerance.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this statement is to affirm St Michael’s school’s adherence to the principles and practice of Australian democracy.

STATEMENT

Australian society is defined, among other aspects, by a belief in elected Government; by a commitment to the rule of law, to equal rights for all before the law; and by a belief in freedom of religion, freedom of speech and freedom of association. Our society is also tolerant of a range of religious, political, social and cultural beliefs and values in the context of the fundamental principle of our democracy.

The „Education and Reform Act 2006‟ requires all education providers to operate in a manner consistent with this set of Australian democratic principles.

In accordance with the Act we will deliver our programs and teaching in a manner that supports and promotes the principles and practice of Australian democracy. This includes a commitment to:

  • Elected government
  • The rule of law
  • Equal rights for all before the law
  • Freedom of religion
  • Freedom of speech and association
  • The values of openness and tolerance

 

The following processes and resources assist our school to support and promote the principles and practice of Australian democracy in our programs and teaching.

The Catholic School Review processes require St Michael’s to present a published vision and mission statement based on the mission or purpose of a Catholic school. By the very nature of Catholic schools, which seek to develop the whole person and to assist students to become active members of the Catholic Church and contributors to the common good of society, these statements acknowledge Australian democratic values.

Evaluation

This policy will be reviewed as part of St Michael’s four-year review cycle or as required.

Ratification

This policy was last ratified by staff in 2020.