Cook Labor Government Refuses to Rule Out Cutting Vital Principal Chaplaincy Program

Media Release | 11 September 2025
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Liam Staltari MLA
Shadow Minister for Education; Early Childhood; Disability Services; Heritage
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A vital initiative providing pastoral care and practical support to Western Australian school principals in regional WA has been left in limbo, with the Cook Labor Government refusing to guarantee ongoing funding.

The Principal Chaplaincy Program – operated by chaplaincy provider YouthCARE – offers in-person pastoral care and wellbeing support to principals in regional schools. In 2024, 249 principals accessed the service.

When questioned in Parliament, Education Minister Sabine Winton refused to confirm whether the program would be renewed ahead of its contract’s expiry on 31 December.

In 2024, the Cook Labor Government attempted to cut the program before backing down after a backlash from principals, principal associations and school communities.

Shadow Education Minister Liam Staltari said one year on, the Government needed to give principals confidence by guaranteeing ongoing funding for this essential service.

“WA school principals go above and beyond in support of their staff and students – their job can be extremely challenging and they deserve the highest standard of face-to-face pastoral care,” he said.

“At a time of growing burnout and stress, it is inconceivable that the Government could cut the Principals Chaplaincy Program despite clear support among school leaders – especially in regional schools.

“This is a Government that will fully fund its $217.5 million Burswood Racetrack while pinching pennies over a much-loved program that supports principals at a cost of just $400,000. Their priorities are all wrong and our schools will suffer for it.”

Hon Michelle Boylan MLC, who previously worked for YouthCARE in country WA said the program was invaluable.

“I’ve sat with principals in need and have seen firsthand the trials they go through while serving their school communities,” she said.

“In the challenging modern school sector, we know that more than half of surveyed principals have considered quitting and leaving the profession.”*

Mr Staltari called on the Education Minister to commit to extending the program.

“We need more support for our principals’ wellbeing, not less,” he said.

“The Minister must guarantee this program and its funding so that our school leaders can do their crucial work with the backing they deserve.”

ENDS

Contact: Graham Mason – 0419 194 792
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* Source: Australian Principal Occupational Health, Safety and Wellbeing Survey, Australian Catholic
University (2025).

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