2026 AACS Advocacy and Policy Summit

The Australian Association of Christian Schools 2026 Advocacy and Policy Summit will bring together Christian school leaders from across Australia—principals, board chairs, and school executives—to hear directly from political representatives and to be equipped for effective, confident advocacy in their local communities.

Program

The Summit program is designed to deliver the latest policy insights alongside practical advocacy training and meaningful political engagement.

Commencing at 2pm in the Theatrette, you will have the opportunity to engage directly with political representatives and policy experts on the key issues shaping Christian education. Through in-depth sessions, you will gain practical advocacy strategies that can be implemented within your school community, equipping you to influence policy and practice in tangible ways.

Following the afternoon session, the Summit shifts from learning to connection. Join us for a time of fellowship with old friends and new over drinks and canapés, concluding with a delicious two-course dinner at the beautiful Strangers’ Restaurant featuring special guest, Greg Sheridan. Greg is a respected journalist at The Australian and author of the new book, How Christians Can Succeed Today.

By the end of the Summit, we hope you will be equipped, encouraged and inspired —ready to advocate confidently for Christian education in your local context and beyond.

Speakers

As in 2025, we have invited the Minister for Education, Jason Clare MP to present the Government's education policy positions. 

We are pleased to have confirmed the following speakers:

Julian Leeser MP
Shadow Minister for Education

Dr Hugh McDermott MP
NSW Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney General

The Hon Susan Carter MLC
NSW Shadow Assistant Minister for Attorney General, Shadow Assistant Special Minister of State, and Shadow Assistant Minister for Corrections

Hon Maryka Groenewald
Member of the Western Australian Legislative Council

Pastor Mark Edwards
Deputy Chair of the Freedom for Faith Board

Monica Doumit
Director, Public Affairs and Engagement
Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney

Graham Catt
CEO, Independent Schools Australia

Alice Mustin
CEO, NT Christian Schools

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

George Tryfiates
Vice President for Public Policy & Legal Affairs
Association of Christian Schools International

Gaelle Broad MLC
Member of the Legislative Council of Victoria

Speaker update: Greg Sheridan

We are sorry to announce that due to unexpected health concerns, Greg Sheridan has recently notified us that he will be unable to join us at the Summit. Greg was looking forward to speaking (as we were looking forward to hearing him), and regrets very much not being able to attend. Please join us in praying for Greg’s ongoing health.