INFORM Newsletter
2026, Term 2, Issue 4
President's Report
Belinda Hudak
VASSP President
As we approach the end of Term 2, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the dedication, resilience and professionalism that Principals and Assistant Principals continue to demonstrate across Victorian public secondary schools. It has been another busy term, filled with the ongoing demands of school leadership, workforce challenges, industrial matters, Disability Inclusion implementation, the GAT, and preparations already underway for student transitions and planning for 2027.
Despite these competing priorities, school leaders continue to create environments where students can learn, belong and thrive. Thank you for the work you do each and every day in support of your students, staff and communities.
Over the course of the term, VASSP has continued to advocate strongly on issues raised by members. One area of particular focus has been Artificial Intelligence. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in teaching, learning and school operations, it is essential that schools are supported to navigate both the opportunities and challenges it presents. VASSP continues to advocate for practical guidance, professional learning, ethical implementation and equitable access to approved AI tools. I encourage members to read the VASSP AI Position Paper included in this edition of the newsletter, which outlines our recommendations and priorities for supporting school leaders in this rapidly evolving area.
I was also pleased to see VASSP Executive member and VASSP Board member, Dave Armstrong, recognised through his inclusion on the AI Panel at the recent Principals Conference. Dave continues to be a respected voice in the education sector, supporting school leaders to understand and respond to the opportunities, challenges and implications of Artificial Intelligence in schools. His contribution to this important conversation reflects both his expertise and his commitment to supporting the profession, and we congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.
This term also provided an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of school leaders through the Department’s Recognition of Service Awards. It was a privilege to attend and acknowledge the commitment and service of so many dedicated leaders. In particular, I congratulate our VASSP members who were recognised, including former State Committee member David Russell celebrating 40 years of Service. Their contributions have helped shape schools, communities and the profession more broadly, and their service deserves recognition and appreciation.
I would like to congratulate two VASSP members on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours List.
Former VASSP President Colin Axup received the OAM for service to secondary education. This recognition is a fitting acknowledgement of Colin’s longstanding commitment to public education, school leadership and advocacy on behalf of principals across Victoria.
Rod Watson, former member and current Secretary of the Victorian Secondary Schools Past Principals Association, received the OAM for service to secondary education and to the community. Across a 30-year teaching and leadership career, Rod made a lasting contribution to Mathematics curriculum and assessment in Victoria.
On behalf of VASSP, congratulations to Colin and Rod on this outstanding achievement
Before the term concludes, I encourage you to join me for the President’s Online Update and Q&A session next week. These sessions provide an opportunity to hear the latest advocacy updates, discuss emerging issues and ask questions directly. The link has been distributed, and I look forward to connecting with members from across the state.
As we head into the term break, I hope you find time to rest, recharge and spend time with those important to you. Thank you for your continued leadership and for the difference you make in the lives of young people every day.
Need to Know
VASSP AI ADVOCACY CONTINUED
VASSP’s position statement makes the case that the real risk in AI is unsupported engagement, not the technology itself. It calls on the Department for clearer policy settings, sustained investment in professional learning, and ongoing consultation with school leaders, backed by ten specific recommendations.
RECOGNITION OF SERVICE AWARDS
Congratulations to all recognised for their significant contribution recognised at the Department of Education Recognition of Service awards 24th May, recognising 40 – 60 years of Service.
VASSP MEMBER SURVEY: VSBA PRIORITIES AND EXPERIENCES
This survey seeks to identify the experiences and priorities of school leaders working with the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA). Your feedback will guide VASSP’s advocacy and discussions with the VSBA about improving communication, streamlining processes, and reducing the administrative burden on principals.
VASSP Member Survey: VSBA Priorities and Experiences 2026 – Fill in form
JOIN THE PEER GROUP SUPPORT UNIT
Peer Group Support (PGS) program is expanding across Victoria, with a focus on rural and regional schools including Wimmera South West, Outer Gippsland, Ovens Murray and Mallee. The program is open to all principal class employees in Victorian government and specialist schools.
Why Peer Group Support?
School leadership can be isolating. This program offers school leaders a safe and supportive environment, amongst colleagues, for guided reflection on professional practice and personal wellbeing. Principals and assistant principals can use tese small group sessions to develop strategies for challenges at wotk, grow professional skills, network or understand how to better support their wellbeing or their staff.
Each group is facilitated by an independent and qualified professional and most participants are placed in a peer group based on their location and preferred time and format. Sessions run for 90 minutes, 2-3 times per term to fit into busy schedules.
How to register your interest?
To join the PGS program, submit a short expression of interest here, or email Peer.Group.Support@education.vic.gov.au and the program staff will be in touch with more details.
OPPORTUNITIES
Bank First, a longstanding and valued business partner of the Victorian Association of State Secondary Principals (VASSP), is proud to sponsor the 2026 VASSP Professional Learning Awards.
These awards support Principal Class members who are committed to growing their impact as system leaders – those who lead strategically, influence beyond the school level, and contribute to the advancement of public education in Victoria.
Applications close Wednesday 1 July 2026
Two awards are available:
- 1 x Principal Award valued up to $3,000
- 1 x Campus Principal or Assistant Principal Award valued up to $2,000
Recipients will use the award to undertake a future-focused professional learning activity that builds their leadership capacity and benefits the broader system.
For more information and to submit your application please visit this page.
ON-DEMAND WEBINAR: ENHANCING SCHOOL CULTURE WITH THE HIGH PERFORMING SCHOOL CULTURE SURVEY
Enhancing school culture with the High Performing School Culture Survey
VASSP Field Officers Deb Gentle and John Richmond speak with Ben Palmer from Genos International about a school-led approach to understanding and strengthening staff culture-without relying on delayed or incomplete feedback.
You will come away with practical insight on:
- how the survey works and how to run it in your school
- common pitfalls: anonymity concerns, skewed responses, data lag; and how to avoid them
- relational leadership actions that help staff feel genuinely valued
- turning evidence into action, quickly and with momentum
Using this webinar to strengthen school culture
- Use as a leadership team professional learning session to build a shared understanding of staff culture
- Pause at key points to discuss how the ideas apply in your current context
- Identify 1–2 priority areas for improvement based on your school’s current pressures
- Consider whether a structured approach, such as the High Performing School Culture Survey, would add value in your setting
A useful resource for principals and leadership teams seeking a credible, school-owned way to strengthen staff experience and focus improvement efforts during sustained pressure.
ASPA Update
by Andy Mison, ASPA President
Agency is the Precondition for Improvement
When ASPA brought public secondary school leaders from every state and territory to the National Gallery of Australia in March for our 2026 National Summit, we asked them to actively participate in the development of national policy. The Summit might be remembered for Minister Clare’s announcement of Commonwealth funding for the reflective supervision pilot, a genuine win for principal wellbeing that ASPA pursued alongside APPA, ACEL, and Headspace. But the work delegates did in the room matters just as much, if not more.
We put three questions to the profession. What role should school leaders play in shaping education policy and reform? What would genuine co-design between school leaders and policymakers look like in practice? And what capabilities do school leaders need to contribute effectively to system reform? Throughout the Summit, we gathered 278 contributions, which we have now consolidated, analysed, and presented in this report: https://www.aspa.asn.au/2026-aspa-national-summit
Read more https://www.aspa.asn.au/post/agency-is-the-precondition-for-improvement
Members
If you would like to receive the ASPA Bulletin and be part of the mailing list, please register here: https://www.aspa.asn.au/contact
*VASSP values our members’ privacy and will not share member information without authorisation.
Chief Operating Officer’s Report
Amy Rashid
Chief Operating Officer
VASSP State Committee 2
VASSP’s State Committee met in May for a full day of member-driven discussion on the issues shaping secondary education right now.
Discussions reflected the complexity of the current environment: complementary education settings, Disability Inclusion, principal selection panels, school finance, recruitment, child safety, and workforce. State Committee members bring state-wide perspectives to these conversations, strengthening VASSP’s advocacy on behalf of all members.
The Committee also heard from the Australian Catholic University on its review of the School Staff Surveys, and from the Department of Education’s School Finance and Resource Branch and Principal Support Unit.
The day concluded with the Annual State Committee Dinner, joined this year by participants from the VASSP Pathways to Leadership program, led by Assistant Principal and VASSP member Brooke Roy. Connecting emerging leaders with State Committee is part of how VASSP builds the profession’s future, and this was a strong example of that in practice.
VASSP Elections 2026: Nominations Open in August
The 2026 VASSP election cycle is approaching. Nominations open in August for Regional Group Chair and State Committee Representative positions, with all 12 Regional Groups open for nomination for the 2027-2028 term.
Stage 1 covers Regional Group Chair (formerly known as Regional Group President) and State Committee Representative positions.
Stage 2 follows in September, covering Executive Board positions including Deputy President, Principal -General Representative, Assistant Principal – General Representative, Treasurer, and the 6 General Representative positions for State Committee.
If you are considering a leadership role within VASSP, please reach out to your Field Officer. Details will be sent out to members in accordance with the VASSP constitution at the beginning of Term 3.
VASSP Annual Conference: Sold Out
The 2026 VASSP Annual Conference is sold out.
Demand has been strong, and we are pleased to confirm the programme is full. A waitlist is now open for those who missed out.
To join the waitlist, please register here: VASSP Conference 2026 Waitlist
Speaker Spotlight: Professor Arnold Dix
In November 2023, 41 miners were trapped underground in the Silkyara-Bardot Tunnel collapse in India. Professor Arnold Dix was called in by the Chief Engineer of India and the Secretary for the Prime Minister to lead the rescue. He promised all 41 men would be brought home alive. They were.
A barrister, geologist, and internationally recognised expert in underground disasters, fire, and life safety, Professor Dix brings a rare combination of technical expertise, legal acuity, and calm under pressure. He is currently President of the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, the peak advisory body to the United Nations on all matters underground.
This session will explore what perseverance, leadership, and unity can achieve in the most complex of circumstances. It is a story that resonates well beyond the tunnel.
Professional Learning & Upcoming Events
Coming up:
- VASSP Conference 2026 – 13-14 August, Rydges Melbourne
- Responding to Challenging Behaviours – Friday 4 September, VASSP Offices
- Applying for Principal Class Positions – Tuesday 8 September, VASSP Offices
- AGM and Leadership Seminar – Friday 13 November, Pentridge
For further information and to register for events visit VASSP Professional Learning
Industry Updates
Be Ahead of the Game School Education Program
Driven by saturation levels of gambling advertising, rapidly changing technology, and a blurring of the line between gaming and gambling, young people are increasingly at risk of harm from gambling. The Victorian Department of Health, Be Ahead of the Game School Education program is a free secondary school program that helps school communities understand how young people may be affected by gambling and mitigate the risks.
Our program offers:
- free face-to-face and online information sessions for teachers, parents, carers and students
- units of work to incorporate in your curriculum plans across a variety of subject areas
- useful resources for parents and teachers
For more details about this program visit beaheadofthegame.vic.gov.au or email beaheadofthegame@health.vic.gov.au
VASSP Project Services
Customised, on-site project support
VASSP offers customised, on-site and independent project support, professional development and logistical support in most areas of school operations.
What services are available?
Project services include but is not limited to:
- Leadership team development workshops
- Leadership coaching – individual and team
- School Improvement Review processes
- Curriculum reviews
- School Policy and Workforce reviews
- Principal preparation – application writing and interview skills
- In-depth individualised support
Regional Meetings
VASSP Field Officers
Regional Group Meetings, 2026
- Term 1: Thursday 5 February, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Thursday 30 April, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Thursday 23 July, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Thursday 15 October, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Tuesday 17 February, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Tuesday 19 May, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Tuesday 28 July, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Tuesday 27 October, 8:30am – 10:30am
Term 1:
- Thursday 19 February, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Thursday 26 March, 9:30am – 11:30am
Term 2:
- Thursday 7 May, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Thursday 11 June, 9:30am – 11:30am
Term 3:
- Thursday 30 July, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Thursday 10 September, 9:30am – 11:30am
Term 4:
- Thursday 29 October, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Thursday 10 December, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Term 1: Friday 13 March, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Friday 15 May, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Friday 4 September, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Friday 4 December, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Term 1:
- Wednesday 25 February, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Term 2:
- Wednesday 20 May, 9:00am – 11:00am
Term 3:
- Wednesday 26 August, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Term 4:
- Tuesday 13 October, 10:30am – 12:30pm
- Wednesday 28 October, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Wednesday 18 November, 8:00am – 10:00am
- Term 1: Wednesday 11 March, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Wednesday 17 June, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Wednesday 2 September, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Wednesday 25 November, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Friday 6 March, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 2: Friday 22 May, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 3: Friday 28 August, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 4: Friday 6 November, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 1: Tuesday 10 March, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Tuesday 2 June, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Tuesday 25 August, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Tuesday 17 November, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Thursday 26 February, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Thursday 4 June, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Thursday 27 August, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Thursday 19 November, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 1: Thursday 5 March, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Thursday 21 May, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Thursday 6 August, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Thursday 12 November, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Wednesday 11 February, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Wednesday 6 May, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Wednesday 5 August, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Wednesday 4 November, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 1: Thursday 19 March, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Thursday 18 June, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Thursday 3 September, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Thursday 22 October, 8:30am – 10:30am
Partner Messages
Partner messages
Short, sharp and designed for the times. Select from hundreds of curriculum-aligned bite-sized videos and interactive lessons paired with dynamic assessment tools, all built in tune with how students learn best.
Leave your super to your loved ones
Did you know, if you don’t have an active beneficiary nomination on your super account, state laws and your super fund rules may decide who gets your super when you pass away?
This could mean more stress, paperwork and delays for your loved ones. Your superannuation and any associated insurance benefits are generally not covered by your will, so it’s important to make a nomination directly with your super fund.
When you make a binding beneficiary nomination, you’re in charge of who your super is paid to.
You can make a binding non-lapsing nomination
A binding non-lapsing nomination is legally binding and remains in place unless you decide to change it. You can make a new nomination any time you need.
General advice only. Consider if this is right for you having regard to your objectives, financial situation, or needs, which have not been accounted for in this information and read the PDS and TMD before acting. Issued by Aware Super Pty Ltd (ABN 11 118 202 672, AFSL 293340), the trustee of Aware Super (ABN 53 226 460 365).
The Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership delivers world-class professional learning and resources that strengthen teaching and leadership, improve student outcomes and elevate the profession.
Explore the highlights below or visit the Academy website for further professional learning opportunities.
- When: Thursday 9 July, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Where: 41 St Andrews Place, East Melbourne
- Cost: $100 – $150
Support your middle leaders to grow their leadership impact at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership’s Middle Leaders Conference, where they will gain practical, evidence-informed strategies to drive school-wide improvement.
Under the theme ‘Leading with Influence’, this is an opportunity to connect with fellow leaders and learn from expert practitioners who will help strengthen middle leadership capability.
- Wednesday 22 July
Designed for aspiring and emerging leaders, this program builds the confidence and capability to lead collaborative, data-driven school improvements that enhances student achievement, engagement and wellbeing.
Thought Leadership Series: Climate Change Education
- When: Wednesday 29 July, 3:45 pm – 5:15 pm
- Where: Online
- Cost: Free
Join the Academy for a conversation about how schools can prepare children for the challenges of climate change and explore evidence-based strategies for how sustainability can be applied to school settings.
This session will be led by Peta White, Associate Professor in Science and Environmental Education at Deakin University.
Subscribe to the Academy Connect newsletter to stay up to date with professional learning. Phone: 03 8199 2900
Provisional Appointments
VASSP would like to congratulate the following provisionally appointed leaders.