Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and social media have fundamentally reshaped how information is produced, shared, and consumed. Improved and appropriate use of the General Capabilities of the Australian Curriculum are crucial in addressing this change

On the 31 July 2024, the Federal Minister for Education announced the Australian Government’s new funding agreement - Better and Fairer Schools Agreement (BFSA) - for the period 2025 to 2034. According to the Federal Minister, reforms, targets and transparency are at the centre of the agreement and collaboration occurred with state and territory governments, First Nations education representatives and nongovernment peak education bodies. The agreement requires states and territories (jurisdictions) to adopt specific reforms and measures to improve student outcomes to be eligible to receive increased federal funding for schools.

School can arouse many emotions in people (students and Staff), they can be - excited, nervous, unsure and indeed concerned about what the future may hold. These are all totally normal feelings in your educational journey – especially with COVID seemingly behind us now.

Traditional schooling models are increasingly failing to meet the diverse academic and wellbeing needs of students. As a result, many students are experiencing mental health issues and lack a feeling of safety at school, leading to a significant decline in attendance rates.

Good Principals can develop great schools. And the benefits of great schools are felt well beyond the school gate and well after the bell rings for the day. For those of us dedicated to the education and wellbeing of our children, there can be no greater reward than leading a school of dedicated and skilled teachers.

This paper focuses on four issues related to the use of Generating Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) in Australian schools, specifically in the context of equity and excellence. The issues are examined primarily from a policy perspective to inform and assist key decision makers across the Australian education sector.

Education and training are critical pathways into employment and social participation and a means of escaping poverty. Education is also critical to creating economic growth, generating higher standards of living and creating the basis of a socially cohesive society.

The traditional model of schooling in Australia, is characterised by a unionised workforce with restricted flexibility in workforce practices, strict regulation governing teacher qualifications and eligibility to teach in schools, and a school structure organised by year levels.

Imagine a vibrant Australian school where every student is purposefully and actively engaged in their learning. In this environment, assessment occurs in many forms and does not drive the curriculum; instead, the focus is on holistic education that nurtures each student's unique interests and talents.