New law to save chaplaincy program
THE Gillard government introduced urgent legislation last week to ensure the survival of the school chaplaincy program, following a landmark ruling from the High Court last week that deemed it constitutionally invalid.
THE Gillard government introduced urgent legislation last week to ensure the survival of the school chaplaincy program, following a landmark ruling from the High Court last week that deemed it constitutionally invalid.
Attorney-General Nicola Roxon briefed the Opposition, Greens and independents on the new law, which was expected to pass through Parliament unopposed on Wednesday as The AJN went to print.
The Coalition threw its support behind the move, despite concerns over the lack of a sunset clause it said would give the government more time to perfect the legislation.
The government’s hand was forced after the High Court found the Commonwealth had exceeded its funding powers in bankrolling the national school chaplaincy program, which has benefited many Jewish schools around the country since its inception in 2007.
In a speech to Parliament, Roxon said the government was “committed” to saving the program.
“The programs supported by the bill include the National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program,” Roxon said. “This program is widely supported for its assistance for students. The government is committed to maintaining the funding for the chaplaincy program.
“This is a prudent approach in the light of the new requirement identified by the High Court, and it is designed to ensure administrative
certainty.”
Roy Steinman, principal of Leibler Yavneh College and chairman of the Victorian Chapter of the Association of Principals of Jewish Day Schools, said the program’s reprieve was welcome news.
“We are delighted that the Commonwealth government has introduced legislation into Parliament that will enable the chaplaincy program to continue,” Steinman said.
“Our schools fully utilise the funding to enhance the delivery of pastoral care in our schools.
“The program assists our school communities in supporting the spiritual, social, and emotional wellbeing of our students,” Steinman said.
“This often includes the support and guidance of our students in ethical matters, values, relationships and Jewish spirituality. The program has been a success and ensures the successful engagement with the broader community.”
The fate of the program was unclear last week after the High Court upheld a challenge from a Queensland man, who argued the program was constitutionally invalid. He also contended that the program violated religious freedom, a charge the court summarily dismissed.
ADAM KAMIEN
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