Diocese of Broken Bay to share school principals amid funding cuts

The Diocese of Broken Bay has announced a new leadership model where more than a dozen Catholic primary schools across Sydney’s north shore and northern beaches will share principals. This move is intended to offset a significant reduction in funding and keep school fees low.

Danny Casey, director of Catholic Schools Broken Bay, stated that 14 smaller primary schools—ranging from Manly to Avalon and Berowra—are expected to participate. He noted that the diocese faces an annual funding reduction of $90 million, which he estimated is equivalent to approximately $5,000 per student. This decrease follows new funding rules introduced five years ago that consider parents’ taxable income and their capacity to contribute to fees.

The diocese maintains that the shared model will boost collaboration and allow leaders to maintain a “meaningful presence” in each school. However, the Independent Education Union of Australia has criticized the decision, suggesting it effectively leaves schools with “part-time” leaders. Some parents have also expressed concerns regarding the lack of prior warning about the changes.