About National Schools Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program (NSCSWP)

Schools Seeking Funding

ACCESS ministries has had expressions of interest regarding Chaplains or Student Wellbeing Workers for 2012 from more than 150 schools around Victoria. If your school is interested in applying for funding and finding out more about the unique contribution a Chaplain or Student Wellbeing Worker can make to your school community, please contact us on 1800 063 341 or email chaplaincy@accessministries.org.au

About National Schools Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program (NSCSWP)

The Australian Government has recognized the valuable contribution of the National School Chaplaincy Program and in August 2010, announced that a further $222 million would be provided so that existing school funding under the Program could have their funding extended to the end of 2014. In addition these funds will support up to 1000 additional schools across Australia including remote and disadvantaged areas.

Following a national consultation process a number of changes have been made and incorporated into the program which is now called the ‘National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program.’ Some of these changes include: a choice for schools of a Chaplain or Student Welfare Worker; minimum qualification requirements for funded school Chaplain/Student Welfare Workers; improved complaints handling mechanisms; an increase in the maximum grant for schools in remote locations; and minimum standards for Funding Recipients.

ACCESS ministries has welcomed changes to the chaplaincy program, announced by
School Education Minister Peter Garrett. Canon Dr Evonne Paddison, CEO of ACCESS ministries said: “Overall, the federal government’s changes strengthen the chaplaincy program and will ensure high quality chaplaincy services are consistently maintained across Australia. There is a high level of community support for the chaplaincy program, as evidenced by the thousands of schools currently participating in the program, and improvements to its management and oversight will maintain its long-term health and vitality.’

For further information about the NSCSWP you can visit www.deewr.gov.au/schoolchaplaincyandwelfare