Athens International Airport is set to double its passenger capacity by 2032 through a large-scale expansion and redesign influenced by the city’s rich architectural history, according to an article by Nikos Vatopoulos and Sakis Ioannidis in ekathimerini.com
The project will be led by the Anemos consortium, a collaboration of international firms including Grimshaw, Haptic, Arup, Leslie Jones, Triagonal, Plan A, and Greece’s K-studio. Unveiled last week, the design aims to fuse classical geometry, Art Deco, and Bauhaus elements with modern functionality, creating a gateway that embodies the essence of Athens.
Photos: Grimshaw
The expansion will introduce six new zones, incorporating plazas with native vegetation and natural lighting to enhance the passenger experience while promoting energy efficiency.
Speaking to Kathimerini, K-studio co-founder Dimitris Karabatakis emphasized that the design seeks to reflect Athens’ urban landscape, integrating public square-like spaces and even an amphitheater. This transformation marks a significant evolution for the airport, which has long faced criticism for lacking architectural identity, as it moves towards becoming a more mature and culturally distinctive transport hub.
“Our People Their Stories – Οι Άνθρωποί μας, οι Ιστορίες τους” is the name of the pioneering project undertaken by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, which records and showcases the personal stories of members of our community—individuals who migrated from Greece to Australia, primarily in the second half of the last century.
“Our People Their Stories” brings to the forefront an era that is already threatened by the shadow of oblivion, as first and second generation migrants gradually pass away and their narratives fade from the memories of their descendants and the broader community.
This period, during which the foundations for the flourishing and prosperity of Hellenism in Australia were laid, is brought back to life through the website www.opts.org.au. Here, the oral testimonies of Greek Australians are presented in the form of video stories and podcasts, alongside rare photographic material provided by the individuals themselves or sourced from the archives of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.
“Our People Their Stories” brings to the forefront an era that is already threatened by the shadow of oblivion.
The people who share their life stories are indeed “our people,” as reflected in the project’s title. Their experiences and struggles mirror pieces of the personal journeys of older Greek Australians, while for younger generations, they offer glimpses into the lives of their parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. These stories remind us—and reveal to us—a world of different anxieties, concerns, and priorities compared to today:
“I thought to myself, if I stay in Greece with two children, how will I educate them? How?! I never had the chance to study, so at best, my children might finish primary or secondary school… And then what? They said Australia was a good place. Ok then, we will leave for a better future…”
— Giannis Mazmanidis (Bankstown, NSW), on his worries about his children’s future, which led him to migrate.
“We boarded the Patris at 5 p.m., and my mother and sister stayed at the dock until 5 a.m., when the ship finally set sail. Many times, while I was still on board, I thought, ‘Let me turn back. Let me not leave.’ I regretted it so many times, especially seeing my mother standing there on the dock, believing I wouldn’t go through with it.”
— Apostolos Tsanis (Lakemba, NSW), recalling the heartbreaking moments before parting from his family in Piraeus to embark on his journey to Australia.
“We didn’t know where we were going or what we would find. Especially the young women who left their villages with only a photo of a groom introduced to them by someone else—not even knowing if the photo truly depicted the right person.”
— Fr John Daskalakis (Crows Nest, NSW), on the uncertainty that gripped migrants on their voyage to the unknown, particularly the proxy brides who set out not only for an unknown land but also to meet a usually unknown person.
“(The house) had three or four bedrooms, but five different families lived there—18 people in total. Each family had one shelf in the fridge. […] People would ask which factory had the most work, not how much it paid. That was the mindset: more working hours.”
— Giorgos Staikos (Earlwood, NSW), on his first home in Sydney and the determination of Greek migrants to work hard to survive and succeed.
“Within a week and a half, I found a job at a factory. I worked from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. There was plenty of work. I needed the money because I was sending money back home every month both to my father and siblings.”
— Kostas Lianos (Newtown, NSW), on his priority after settling in Sydney: finding work and supporting his family in Greece.
“I started to realise they didn’t want me because I was a ‘new Australian.’ I overheard them saying it to each other.”
— Sofia Haska (Moore Park, NSW), on facing successive rejections from prospective employers due to her migrant background.
“Back then, our community was so close-knit… Every weekend, there was a gathering at someone’s house or a park.”
— Michalis Falaras (Menai, NSW), on the strong bonds among Greek Australians, who spent their free time socialising with fellow compatriots.
“I dressed myself… I prepared myself as a bride. No hairdressers, no friends, no one was there.”
— The late Martha Gianopolitis (Brighton-Le-Sands, NSW), on her wedding day in 1956, in conditions vastly different from those of later generations.
“Our first days were difficult because we stayed locked inside, unable to communicate with anyone. On Fennell Street, where we settled, there was a Greek shop where we could go and at least be understood while shopping. […] (Our children) were enrolled in an English school. But because their names—Dimitrios, Eleftherios, Dimitra—were hard for people to pronounce, they told us that Dimitrios would be called Jim, Dimitra would be called Ari, and Eleftherios would be called Eric. We couldn’t fathom this; we couldn’t accept it…”
— Ioannis Dimou (Parramatta, NSW), on the struggles of adapting to Australia, particularly the language barrier and the cultural compromises Greek families had to make.
“Back then, people would line up outside the real estate offices, find a lawyer, take out a loan—because big companies would lend money—and buy their first house. The whole family worked until it was paid off.”
— Christos Christogeorgis (Bayview Park, NSW), on the rush of migrants to real estate agencies, anxious to secure their first home, often taking out loans and repaying them through hard work and strict budgeting.
These are just some of the memories shared by Greek Australians who narrate the struggles of their lives while painting a broader picture of the Greek Australian experience—especially during the major migration wave from the early 1950s to the mid-1970s.
The “Living Museum” of Our People Their Stories already hosts dozens of moving and captivating stories, freely accessible to anyone online. The project was officially launched and blessed by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in October 2024, in the presence of Archbishop Makarios of Australia and the Director of the Media Office of the Archdiocese, Markellos Petropoulos, who initiated and is responsible for the implementation of this project. Since then, the collection has continued to grow, receiving widespread praise from the public.
The project was officially launched and blessed by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in October 2024.
The project’s team continues to work tirelessly, gathering more personal stories, recording them through audiovisual media, and utilising modern technology and cinematic storytelling. The final results will gradually be presented in the “Living Museum,” but also on the “small screen” of ERT television programs, with which Our People Their Stories has established a partnership.
As for the protagonists of this thoughtful journey into the past when Hellenism took root in Australia, they can be anyone willing to share their personal story and enrich our collective memory. Interested individuals or their relatives, from all corners of Australia, can participate in Our People Their Stories free of charge. To get involved, they can contact the project team by phone (02 9690 6100), email (contact@opts.org.au), or via the submission form at www.opts.org.au/tell-your-story/
Petro Georgiou, a former Liberal MP for Kooyong and a respected advocate for human rights and multiculturalism, has died peacefully at the age of 77.
Born in Corfu, Greece, Georgiou migrated to Australia in 1951 and went on to serve 16 years in federal parliament from 1994 to 2010. Though he remained on the backbench during the Howard Government, he became a prominent voice for refugee rights, civil liberties, and multicultural policy—often challenging his own party’s stance.
In 2005, he introduced a private member’s bill seeking to release children and long-term asylum seekers from immigration detention and later crossed the floor to oppose harsh migration laws. He was instrumental in entrenching multiculturalism as a bipartisan value.
His family described him as “an inspiration… a giant across the Australian community.” Former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg remembered him as “widely respected for his integrity, intelligence and commitment to the local community.”
Outgoing Labor MP Maria Vamvakinou, despite being from an opposing party, also paid heartfelt tribute.
“Although we came from opposing parties, our shared concern for multiculturalism and the rights of migrants often made us allies in joint campaigns,” Ms Vamvakinou said in a statement.
“His contribution to multiculturalism helped establish it as a bipartisan destiny—despite opposition from within his own party, something which cost him dearly in terms of ministerial advancement.
“Those who know Petro’s life and work speak of an exceptional colleague, driven by principle, humanity, and unwavering integrity. His passing is a great loss to multicultural Australia, but he has left us a significant legacy—one we are obliged to continue.”
Georgiou was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2013 for his service to parliament and human rights. He is survived by his partner, two children, and extended family.
The Greek Orthodox Church and Community of Canberra (GOCCC) has proudly unveiled its newest initiative: the GOCCC Emerging Leaders (GEL) Committee 2025 — a hand-selected youth subcommittee made up of dedicated young individuals who are actively contributing to Hellenic life in the nation’s capital.
The GEL Committee reflects a forward-looking vision for Canberra’s Greek community, aiming to “future-proof our emerging leaders” while preserving and promoting the foundational pillars of Faith, Language, and Culture for generations to come.
Chosen for their involvement in community activities, church services, and cultural celebrations, the members of GEL 2025 represent the vibrancy and passion of young Greek Australians.
Meet some of GEL’s inspiring members:
Petros Satsia, GEL Leader, shared what he loves most about the Canberra Greek community: “I love that we are one strong and united Greek community that is close knit.”
Evdoxia Mantinaos, Committee Member, proudly listed her heritage: “Mytilene, Karpathos and Cyprus.”
Mariana Kartsonas, also on the committee, spoke about her Greek roots: “Kalamata, Sparta and Trikokkia (near Meteora).”
Andreas Tsoulias, when asked about his favourite place in Greece, simply said: “Florina.”
Iliada Mantinaos shared her go-to Greek dishes: “A ntakos salad, sheftelia or makaronia sto fourno.”
Elijah Athanasiou highlighted his love of Greek nightlife: “I love going to the live bouzoukia in Greece.”
These young leaders are not only embracing their cultural identity, but are actively working to ensure Hellenism continues to thrive in the ACT and beyond.
The GEL initiative is a testament to the GOCCC’s commitment to empowering youth, encouraging cultural continuity, and nurturing leadership potential through faith-based and community-driven pathways.
Stay tuned for more initiatives and events led by this inspiring new generation of Greek Australians.
This April, children from Kindy to Year 6 are invited to dive into Greek culture, heritage, and fun at the Hellenic Kids Activities Program, running from Tuesday, 15 April to Thursday, 17 April 2025 at the Hellenic Club of Canberra at Woden.
Held in the Apollo Room from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily, this three-day school holiday event is packed with exciting and engaging sessions tailored for curious young minds. Children will take part in interactive cultural activities designed to educate and entertain, all while making new friends in a welcoming community setting.
From Greek myths and music to arts, language, and traditional games, each day offers something fresh and vibrant. Whether your child is already immersed in Greek culture or just beginning to explore, the Hellenic Kids Program is a unique opportunity to connect with heritage in a hands-on, creative way.
Bookings are open now. The cost is $90 per full day, including lunch. Morning and afternoon tea breaks are included, though families are asked to supply their own snacks.
A 10% discount applies to multiple sibling bookings (up to five children in the same session). For six or more children, please contact organisers directly on 6281 0899.
Important notes for parents:
Bookings are exclusive to Hellenic Club members. If you are not a member, you can join here.
You may only book tickets for your own children.
This programme is not eligible for Centrelink Child Care rebates.
Event Details:
What: Hellenic Kids
When: Tuesday, 15 April to Thursday, 17 April 2025
Where: Apollo Room, Hellenic Club Woden, 1 Matilda Street, Woden 2606
In a major boost for local sport and community engagement, the Coalition has announced a $2 million funding commitment to Heidelberg United Alexander Football Club, should it win the upcoming federal election.
The announcement was made in the electorate of Jagajaga by Liberal candidate Chris Parr, joined by local MP Keith Wolahan and Senator James Paterson, who was praised for his behind-the-scenes advocacy to help secure the funding.
The investment will fund significant upgrades to the club’s facilities, including the development of an Olympic Museum, expanded training areas, open green space, and larger clubrooms to accommodate growing community use.
“It is just so important to keep our kids engaged, our parents volunteering and families achieving in all our community activities,” Parr said on social media. “I’m proud to be part of a team that recognises the importance of community infrastructure.”
The announcement has been welcomed as a win for local families, sports fans, and volunteers, with the Coalition emphasising its commitment to strengthening communities by partnering with local groups and the Banyule City Council.
“I’m very much looking forward to our community enjoying these new facilities,” Parr added.
Heidelberg United Alexander FC expressed its appreciation in a public statement: “Thank you to the Liberal Party of Australia and Chris Parr for his commitment to this great club and icon in the community. Thank you for the support.”
The proposed upgrades aim to support both the club’s on-field development and its broader role as a community hub, providing accessible spaces for a wide range of local activities.
The Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry National Federation (HACCI NF) marked a significant milestone with its inaugural online event ‘Bridging Markets: Greece-Australia Trade Insights’ on Thursday 20th March.
Organised in collaboration with the Greek Exporters Association – SEVE and international industry leaders KLEEMANN Hellas SA and ALUMIL, the event attracted over 100 participants from both Australia and Greece.
The webinar was part of the collaboration between the HACCI National Federation, SEVE, and Greece’s leading Chambers of Commerce and Industry (in Athens, Piraeus, Thessaloniki, and Rethymnon) focusing on promoting B2B connections, facilitating knowledge exchange, organising joint events, and exploring the potential for a trade delegation next year.
It marked a monumental step in strengthening the ties between the two nations and fostering new opportunities for trade, investment, and strategic partnerships.
In his address to the panel, Executive Vice-President of SEVE, Panayiotis Hassapis praised HACCI for setting an example for cooperation between Greece and the Hellenic Diaspora, commenting that this sort of unity is not a given.
Mr Hassapis pointed out that Greece presents significant opportunities for Australian businesses seeking to expand their presence, despite the fact bilateral trade is low. Australia is Greece’s 45th export destination and Australia is Greece’s 67th importing country. Elaborating on this “huge potential,” Mr Hassapis identified areas of opportunity, such as real estate; industrial equipment and machinery; and the high-quality chemical imports.
Two of the main points of interest were the experiences of KLEEMANN Hellas SA, a leading manufacturer of elevators, escalators, and related mobility solutions, and ALUMIL, Greece’s leader in research, development, and production of aluminium architectural systems, in their efforts to establish a presence in Australia.
KLEEMANN’s has been a story of success, starting with the company participating in trades and exhibitions, then looking for a reliable partnership, and finally moving from a B2B approach to a B2C model, which allowed them to now claim 8 per cent of the market.
ALUMIL’s experience, on the other side, had been different: after two failed joint ventures, the company tried to operate in Australia on its own, facing logistical challenges, and insurmountable rental and operational costs. More importantly, it was a difference on business mindset that made partnerships difficult. In the end, ALUMIL found that the most sensible approach is to ship directly from Greece to Australia.
These two diametrically opposite experiences shed light to the challenges, but also to the opportunities for Australian businesses in Greece and the potential for Greek businesses to expand into the Australian market.
A strong foundation for future growth:
Dr. Elena Limnios, Chair of HACCI National Federation, expressed her enthusiasm about the event’s success, stating: “This event marked a pivotal moment in the growing Hellenic Australian business network. By bringing together over 100 participants from both countries, we’ve demonstrated the shared appetite for collaboration and the strength of this network.”
“HACCI National Federation, the Greek Chambers of Commerce, and SEVE are together laying the foundation for long-term trade and investment growth. We are committed to creating real opportunities by connecting the innovation and heritage of Greece with the dynamism of the Australian market,” Dr Limnios added.
Future Opportunities and Strategic Considerations:
The event also provided a platform for discussing broader global trade dynamics, the impact of tariffs, and strategies for market entry into both Europe and Asia. Attendees were encouraged to explore strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and potentially local manufacturing options to enhance market penetration in both regions.
The movement for the recognition of the Genocide of the Armenians, Assyrians and Greeks has gained momentum with three Victorian Members of Parliament mentioning the Genocide in addresses to Parliament this week.
At the time, over thirty five influential community groups, including Armenian, Assyrian, Greek, Kurdish, Cypriot, Tamil, Tigray, Lebanese, Indian, Hindu, Christian, and Islamic community groups wrote to Victorian MPs calling for the recognition. Despite this groundswell of community support, at the time, neither of the major parties indicated that they would support the motion.
Chris Crewther MP – Member for Mornington pressed the Allan Government to clarify their stance on Victoria’s role in aiding survivors of the Genocides.
Chris Crewther.
Ann-Marie Hermans MP – Member for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region and Kim Wells MP – Member for Rowville made Private Members Statements on the issue, whilst Chris Crewther MP – Member for Mornington pressed the Allan Government to clarify their stance on Victoria’s role in aiding survivors of the Genocides.
On Wednesday, 2 April 2025, Ms Hermans, as Member for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region and Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Armenia in Victoria, addressed the Legislative Council as follows: “I rise to acknowledge the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, which commemorates the 110th anniversary of one of the gravest horrors of humanity. An estimated 1.5 million Armenians, 500,000 Assyrians and 350,000 Greeks were persecuted and murdered from 24 April 1915 to 1923.”
The next day, on Thursday, 3 April 2025, Ms Wells, as Member for Rowville and Secretary of the Parliamentary Friends of Armenia in Victoria, made the following statement in the Legislative Assembly: “This member’s statement is to acknowledge Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, which this year commemorates the 110th anniversary of this horrific event inflicted on Armenians, Greeks and Assyrians, which began on 24 April 1915.”
On the same day, Mr Crewther, as Member for Mornington, called upon the Victorian Government to clarify their position, given that Victorians, especially those in his electorate, played an important role at the time in providing aid to survivors of the Genocide.
Joint Justice Initiative activist Dean Kalimniou, welcomed the stance of the Victorian MPs on the Genocide.
“It is often cited that the Genocide was the first in the twentieth century. Sadly, it was not the last, with genocidal acts still being currently perpetrated around the world. This is why the recognition of the Genocide is fundamental and a condition precedent in the cause of reconciliation and the fight against racism and intolerance in all its forms,” Mr Kalimniou said.
“Increasingly Victorians are calling upon their political representatives of all persuasion to take a stance on this issue and we can see that principled Members of Parliament are heeding that call. We applaud any effort that has at its heart the championing of humanity and the promotion of peace.”
The highly esteemed Hellenic Presidential Guard will visit Australia from 23 April to 4 May 2025, participating in Anzac Day commemorations and a series of cultural events celebrating the enduring bond between Greece and Australia.
This historic visit is hosted by the Hellenic Studies Foundation (Adelaide), the Hellenic Club Sydney, and the Joint Committee for the Commemoration of the Battle of Crete and the Greek Campaign.
The tour provides a rare opportunity for Australians to witness the ceremonial precision and cultural significance of the Evzones.
Adelaide Itinerary: 23-28 April 2025
The Hellenic Presidential Guard (the Guard) will participate in the following public events in Adelaide:
Friday, 25 April – Anzac Day formalities: The Guard will participate in the Dawn Service at the Memorial Gardens, adjacent to the West Torrens Council Chamber, commencing at 5:30 a.m., and will march along Sir Donald Bradman Drive. Later that day, they will join the official Anzac Day March through Adelaide city, concluding with a Service of Remembrance at the Cross of Sacrifice in Pennington Gardens. All welcome.
Saturday, 26 April – St Basil’s Nursing Home (10:00 am): The Guard will visit St Basil’s Nursing Home for the Aged, sharing morning tea with residents and invited guests.
Sunday, 27 April – Divine Liturgy at the Greek Orthodox Community and Parish of Saint George (9:30 am): The Guard will attend the Divine Liturgy hosted by the Greek Orthodox Community and Parish of Saint George, Thebarton and Western Suburbs.) All welcome.
Sunday, 27 April – Thebarton Hellenic Festival (Lunchtime): Following the Divine Liturgy, the Guard will join the Thebarton Hellenic Festival, featuring traditional Greek music, dance, and cuisine. Attendees are encouraged to meet the Guard and take photographs. All welcome.
Sydney Itinerary: 28 April – 4 May 2025
After their Adelaide visit, the Guard will travel to Sydney for the first time since 2018, participating in the following events:
Monday, 28 April (4:00 pm) – Doxology Service: A solemn opening ceremony at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady in Redfern, officiated by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia. All welcome.
Thursday, 1 May (12:30 pm) — “The ANZACs of Greece” Luncheon: Held at Beta Grand, Level 2, 238 Castlereagh Street, Sydney. This luncheon honours Greek Australians’ contributions to the ANZAC legacy. Bookings: hcaccinsw@gmail.com
Thursday, 1 May (6:15 pm) – Visit to St Basil’s NSW/ACT Randwick: This includes a chapel service and presentation, followed by a photo exhibition of The Evzones Collection by Nick Bourdaniotis. Previously exhibited at the Athens War Museum, the collection has been permanently installed at the Presidential Palace and the Guards’ headquarters (Garrison). All welcome.
Friday, 2 May (1:30 pm) – Guard of Honour Ceremony, Martin Place Cenotaph: A formal tribute at the Martin Place Cenotaph, recognising the sacrifices of Australian and Greek servicemen and women, especially those in the Greek and Cretan campaigns. All welcome.
Wreath laying at Martin Place. Photo: Bourdo Photography.
Friday, 2 May (7:30 pm) – Doxology and Community Gathering, Parramatta: A Doxology service at St. Ioannis Greek Orthodox Church, Parramatta, followed by a meet-and-greet in the church hall. All welcome.
Saturday, 3 May (1:30 pm) – ANZAC Memorial Ceremony at Hyde Park, Sydney: The week’s flagship event features a ceremonial march and flag-raising at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park, honouring shared Greek-Australian military heritage. Fourteen Evzones will be marching to the ANZAC Memorial from Elizabeth Street. Bring your Greek Flags. All welcome.
Sunday, 4 May (9:30 am) – Church Service and Wreath-Laying at ANZAC Memorial, Kogarah: A memorial service will be held at the Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Kogarah, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kogarah ANZAC Memorial, located in Town Square. All welcome.
Sunday, 4 May (9:30 am) – Church Service at the Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Belmore and District “All Saints”: A memorial serviceand wreath-laying at All Saints Greek Orthodox Church, Belmore. All welcome.
Sunday, 4 May (12:30 pm) – Tribute Luncheon at Hermes Lounge, Kogarah: Hosted by the Australasian Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) NSW, to honour the Presidential Guard. Bookings: George +61 466 237 707
The Guard will also visit several schools and aged care facilities, including All Saints Grammar, St Spyridon College, St Euphemia College, and the Greek Community of Sydney nursing home. These events are closed to the public.
“We are incredibly honoured to welcome the Hellenic Presidential Guard to Australia for these historic events,” Harry Patsouris, spokesperson for the Hellenic Studies Foundation, said.
“Their visit underscores the deep bond between our two nations, particularly as we commemorate the sacrifices made by Greek and Australian soldiers during the World Wars. This is a unique opportunity for all Australians to engage with Greek culture and heritage while paying tribute to the brave men and women who fought for our freedom.”
Nick Hatzistergos, President of the Hellenic Club Sydney, added, “This visit provides a momentous opportunity for reflection and celebration. It unites the Greek and Australian communities in honouring our shared history and the contributions of Greek Australians to our national story.”
Acknowledgment of Sponsors, Adelaide
The Hellenic Studies Foundation would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the following sponsors whose generous support has made the Adelaide events possible:
TRIO Group
Maras Group
Patsouris and Associates
St. George Church
City of West Torrens
Vlassis & Co
Diaspora
Theo Samaras, Managing Director of Kyren Group, and owner of Crowne Plaza Adelaide
Dr Nick & Anna Vrodos.
Acknowledgment of Sponsors and Partners, Sydney
The Hellenic Club Sydney, the Joint Committee for the Commemoration of the Battle of Crete, and the Greek Campaign sincerely thank the New South Wales Government for its invaluable support and investment in making the Sydney events possible. They also extend their deepest gratitude to their partners, whose generous contributions helped create truly memorable experiences during the visit to Sydney.
NSW Government (Event Sponsor)
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia
Greek City Times
Business Sydney
AHEPA NSW
The commitment to preserving and promoting Greek heritage in Australia ensures that these significant cultural and commemorative events can take place, fostering a deeper understanding of the shared history between Greece and Australia.
Peter Dutton has pledged a Coalition government would review the national school curriculum to eliminate “indoctrination,” aiming to restore “critical thinking” and “common sense” in schools.
According to ABC News, the proposal sparked concern in the education sector, with some fearing key social programs could be defunded. However, the Coalition confirmed it would retain consent education, introduced in 2022 with bipartisan support.
Chanel Contos, the leading advocate behind Australia’s consent education campaign, welcomed the reassurance.
Chanel Contos. Photo: Mick Tsikas / AAP Image.
“It’s been quite disturbing to see the topic of violence against women and children become an increasingly polarised issue in America and I’m very happy to confirm that in Australia that has not been the case,” Contos told ABC News.
She emphasised that consent should remain above politics: “We want to make it so that consent is not a divisive topic, to give us the best chance of raising the next generation with respectful values at heart.”
While consent education is safe, other programs—particularly those supporting LGBTQ+ students—remain uncertain under Dutton’s proposed reforms.
