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In a resounding display of accountability and dedication to his constituents, Member of Parliament (MP) Tim Mander recently took centre stage in the Queensland Parliament to address a pressing concern. The issue at hand revolved around the actions of the Anglican Schools Commission at St. Paul's, its implications for the education sector, and the fundamental principles of governance and accreditation of governing bodies. In a move that highlights the essence of democracy, Mander demanded Education Minister Grace Grace's attention to a heartfelt complaint made by the school community, and he posed a critical question that shook the foundations of educational governance standards.

For those who may have missed this significant moment in Queensland politics, here is a closer look at what transpired and why it matters:

A Call for Accountability and Transparency

MP Tim Mander's address to the Queensland Parliament is a powerful example of a representative's commitment to ensuring accountability within the government and protecting the rights of the people he serves. The issue pertains to the actions of the Anglican Schools Commission at St. Paul's, which have raised concerns within the school community. In his role as a diligent advocate for the people, Mander took it upon himself to raise these concerns to the highest legislative body in the state.

The School Community's Plea for Attention

At the heart of this matter lies the heartfelt plea of the St. Paul's school community. These individuals have vested interests in the education and well-being of their children. Their complaint to the non-state schools accreditation board is a call for action, an expression of their concerns, and a testament to the power of community involvement in the democratic process.

Questioning Governance Standards and Practices

One of the most significant moments in Mander's address was his pointed question regarding the command and control actions of the Anglican Schools Commission over the past 12 months. This question extends beyond the specific issue and delves into the fundamental principles of governance, particularly as they relate to educational institutions. By raising this question, Mander underscores the importance of governance standards and practices, ensuring that governing bodies meet the high expectations set for institutions entrusted with the education and welfare of our children.

In conclusion, Tim Mander's address in the Queensland Parliament represents a critical moment in our democratic process. It signifies a commitment to transparency, accountability, and protecting the rights of citizens and students alike. As the discussion around the actions of the Anglican Schools Commission at St. Paul's continues, the spotlight on governance standards and practices in educational institutions grows even more intense. In the end, the actions of an engaged MP remind us all that democracy thrives when the voices of the people are heard, their concerns addressed, and their rights safeguarded.

Below is The Hansard Excerpt:

St Paul’s School

Mr MANDER (Everton—LNP) (7.15 pm): St Paul’s School is situated at Bald Hills just outside my electorate. Many past and present students and parents are my constituents. For the past 15 years, the college has been expertly led by award-winning principal Dr Paul Browning, who, after the school featured in the Royal Commission into child sex abuse, was instrumental in restoring its good name as he reached out to sexual abuse survivors.

In May 2022, the chair of the Anglican Schools Commission, the ASC, Bishop Jeremy Greaves, and the executive director, Sherril Butterworth, met the school council to discuss Dr Browning’s contract that was due to expire at the end of 2023. An extract of the minutes of that meeting states—

Sherril Butterworth advised it was clear Paul Browning was very experienced and knew how to run a school and that it would, therefore, not be necessary to undertake the comprehensive process outlined in his current contract. She felt a process involving self-reflection based around his vision for the future, coupled with a 360 survey, would be adequate.

A few months later, the school council, after following the direction of the ASC, unanimously recommended Dr Browning be offered a further five-year contract. The 360 review came back with an 89 per cent approval of Dr Browning’s work. In March 2023, the Anglican Schools Commission informed the school council it was sacking Dr Browning despite never contacting the school council in the six months following the recommendation to reappoint him. After the school council continued to press for an explanation, they themselves were sacked.

In September 2023, again with no discussion with the parent community, the ASC terminated Dr Browning’s employment early, effective from the end of term 3. To say that the aforementioned actions shocked the school community is an understatement. They were and remain devastated. Here is an excerpt from a letter from a year 12 student describing the impact on the student body—

The uncertainty and disruptions caused by this decision have left many of us feeling adrift, anxious, and unsure of what the future holds for our school community. It has affected our morale and confidence at a time when we should be celebrating our accomplishments and looking forward to a promising future.

I table that letter.

Tabled paper: Letter, undated, from an anonymous student regarding the decision by the Anglican Church not to renew the contract of the Principal of St Paul’s School, Dr Paul Browning.

Putting aside any arguments about the merits of the decision made by the ASC, the process not to renew Dr Browning and then finish him early has been abysmal. I call on the education minister to heed the submission made by the school community to the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board. Minister, do the command and control actions of the ASC over the last 12 months meet the governance standards and practices of a modern education institution?

(Time expired)