Australian Bishops launch social justice statement on building unity
The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has launched its latest Social Justice Statement, Living the Gospel in Times of Social Division, calling on Australians to respond to growing social division with compassion, dialogue and a commitment to human dignity. The statement was launched in Brisbane by Bishop Tim Harris, Chair of the Bishops Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service.
In his address, Bishop Harris highlighted the challenges of polarisation, misinformation and prejudice within society and encouraged people to choose understanding over division. Grounded in the Gospel message of love, the statement invites Catholics and all people of goodwill to foster respectful dialogue, build stronger communities, and support those on the margins.
The statement draws on the vision of Pope Leo for a “civilisation of love”, promoting justice, peace and meaningful encounter as pathways to healing divisions and strengthening social cohesion. Australians are encouraged to embrace kindness, friendship and active compassion in their daily lives as a witness to Gospel values.
[Photos shared by Annette Laoughlin-Smith of NCEC]
Catholic education supports stronger online privacy protections for children
The National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC), together with Independent Schools Australia (ISA), has welcomed efforts to strengthen online privacy protections for children and young people through the proposed Children’s Online Privacy Code.
In a joint submission, NCEC and ISA highlighted the importance of creating safer digital environments while ensuring schools can continue to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and wellbeing support through trusted online platforms. The submission emphasises the need for child-centred privacy protections that are practical, balanced and support the educational use of technology.
The recommendations seek to safeguard students’ personal information, promote responsible data practices, and ensure young people can engage safely in the digital world while benefiting from the educational opportunities technology provides.
For more information, read the joint submission from Independent Schools Australia and the National Catholic Education Commission.