On 20 August 2026, Catholic Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn Education Limited (CACGEL) launched its new Apostolic Action Plan 2027-2033, Grounded in Faith, Growing in Service, setting a shared direction for Catholic education across the Archdiocese for the next seven years.
Executive Director David de Carvalho formally introduced the plan before an audience of distinguished guests, parish clergy, parent representatives, school and system leaders, teachers and students, bringing the Catholic education community together to mark an important moment in its mission.
Reflecting on the launch, Mr de Carvalho said the occasion inspired a strong sense of gratitude, hope and shared purpose.
“It was a privilege to launch Grounded in Faith, Growing in Service alongside so many people who contribute to Catholic education across our Archdiocese. The plan reflects who we are, what we value and where we want to go together. I am deeply grateful to everyone who helped shape it and look forward to seeing it come to life in our schools and communities.”
More than a strategic document, the Apostolic Action Plan represents a collective commitment to the future of Catholic education. Developed in the spirit of synodality - a way of journeying together that values participation, dialogue and attentive listening - the plan brings together perspectives from across the Archdiocese to shape the priorities, aspirations and initiatives that will guide our work in the years ahead.
Inspired by Pope Leo XIV's description of the educational community as a "we", the plan recognises that Catholic education is sustained by the relationships and partnerships that surround each young person and create the conditions in which they can grow and thrive.
Looking towards 2033, a year that marks two millennia since the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Apostolic Action Plan provides a clear and purposeful direction for the future of Catholic education.
Two bold goals sit at the centre of the plan:
- Faith oxygenates all areas of the curriculum in every classroom.
- All schools achieve above expected growth in literacy and numeracy.
Alongside these goals, the plan commits to strengthening support for students and families, investing in staff formation and leadership, responding thoughtfully to emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and deepening partnerships with parishes and community organisations. It also seeks to ensure Catholic education remains accessible to families who seek it and continues to grow in response to the needs of communities across the ACT and NSW.
Importantly, this is not a plan for schools alone. It reflects the conviction that the future of Catholic education will be shaped by the contribution, commitment and goodwill of all who share in its mission.
Together, these commitments provide clear direction for the years ahead while remaining firmly anchored in our purpose. The plan calls us to respond to a changing world with hope, wisdom and courage, ensuring every young person entrusted to our care is equipped to lead a life of meaning, service and faith.
Grounded in Faith, Growing in Service is not simply a plan to be implemented. It is an invitation to journey forward together, strengthening our communities and shaping the future of Catholic education across the Archdiocese.
