Tim Hines, an English teacher at Oakleigh Grammar, has been recognised as one of the best educators in Australia under 35 in The Educator’s annual Rising Stars & School Leadership Awards for 2025.
With close to 100 different nominees for the awards, candidates were judged on their leadership, innovation and achievement in their education careers to date.
After just three years into his teaching career, Tim has displayed remarkable leadership in his teaching and learning, as well as his development of student agency.
Principal Mark Robertson praised Tim for “quickly distinguishing himself as a dedicated professional who cultivates a culture of trust and innovation, empowering his students to take greater ownership and authorship of their own learning.”
Tim’s dedication to continuous development of teaching practices and elevating student outcomes makes him a worthy recipient of the award.
Oakleigh Grammar is proud of its commitment to fostering the development of brilliant young teachers and looks forward to the continued contributions to the School and its students by all of its passionate teachers.
Around 700 teachers, representing the 297 community language schools across the state that teach 61 community languages, will attend their annual conference organised by NSW Federation of Community Language Schools on Saturday 26th of April.
The conference at Sydney University will follow the inspiring theme: ‘Stronger Together and Making a Difference for Community Languages.’
The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early learning, Prue Car, has sent a video message to the conference in which she expressed her pride in backing the work of the Federation to be as wide-reaching as possible.
“In 2024 the Government boosted support for the eligible community language schools with an extra $100 per student to ease the load on families and to support the Federation’s work even further,” she said.
“The new funding will help ensure students can maintain connection to their heritage and alleviate some of the costs that parents face in supporting their children’s language education.”
Describing the Federation as “a powerhouse” the Deputy Premier said: “The impact that you have across the state cannot be understated.
“I have seen first-hand – kids learning, laughing, proudly learning, switching between languages and sharing in the joy of being understood. That’s what your schools give.
“You help kids stay connected to who they are, keeping language alive in homes and hearts for generations.
“The NSW Government is so pleased to be backing your work and thanks you for everything you do to help kids hold onto a vital part of themselves.”
The CEO of the Federation, Michael Christodoulou AM,said today: “After last year’s wonderful success, we’re absolutely thrilled to bring back this highly anticipated event!”
“This year will be packed with even more opportunities for language educators and school management committees to connect with top-notch expert presenters and explore the latest trends and innovations in language teaching and learning,” Mr Christodoulou added.
“We’ve prepared a fantastic lineup of renowned international and local speakers aimed specifically at community language teachers.
“I thank the Deputy Premier for her video message. We very much appreciate her time, her thoughtful words, her support and her sincerity expressed in that message which all participants will hear at the conference.”
An online professional development workshop was recently held for Greek language teachers, students preparing for the Certificate of Attainment in Greek, and their parents.
Held as part of an annual initiative, the workshop aimed to provide essential training, guidance, and resources to educators, exam candidates, and their families in preparation for the upcoming Greek language exams in May.
More than 60 participants from across Australia joined the online session, reflecting the strong national interest in Greek language learning and certification.
Dr Patricia Koromvokis, Head of the Greek Language Examination Centre and Lecturer in Global Cultures and Languages in the School of International Studies at Macquarie University, delivered a thorough and insightful presentation.
She focused on effective preparation strategies and the structure and style of the exams, providing valuable guidance for both teachers and students.
Dr Koromvokis was joined by Ms Tserentzoulia, Assistant at the Greek Examination Centre, and Mr Dagopoulos, representative of the Centre for the Greek Language in Thessaloniki, who also contributed to the discussion and responded to questions from participants. Katerina Vetsikas, Project Officer (Greek Curriculum) of the Sydney Institute for Community Languages Education (SICLE) coordinated the workshop.
This year, Macquarie University will host the Certificate of Attainment in Greek exams from 20 – 22 May 2025. As the largest examination centre in the Southern Hemisphere for this certificate, Macquarie will welcome over 100 candidates—a record number.
His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew received Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn and her delegation on Tuesday, April 22, for a warm and cordial meeting at the Patriarchate.
Their discussion focused on the work of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, with particular emphasis on the role of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in Australia. Both leaders also paid tribute to the late Pope Francis, praising his significant contributions to the Christian world.
Photo: Nikos Papachristou.
The meeting was attended by Simeon Beckett, husband of the Governor-General; Australian Ambassador to Ankara, Miles Armitage; Consul General in Istanbul, Tony Huber; and members of Mostyn’s staff.
Representing the Patriarchate were Metropolitan Elder Emmanuel of Chalcedon, Metropolitan Maximos of Sylivria, and the Grand Ecclesiarch Aetios, Director of the Patriarchal Office.
The historic vote, which took place in mid-April 2025, saw 87 UNESCO member states—including major global players such as China, Germany, Egypt, Argentina, India, Italy, and South Korea—co-sponsoring the proposal. Despite this broad international support, Australia abstained from endorsing the initiative, prompting concern among the Greek Australian community.
In a formal letter dated 22 April 2025, signed by AHC President Peter Stefanidis and Secretary Dean Kalimniou, the Council expressed its surprise and disappointment at the Australian government’s stance, especially considering the country’s significant Greek-speaking population and the longstanding contribution of Hellenism to Australian society.
“We note with surprise, given the large population of Greek-speaking people in Australia, their long presence within our country which goes back over one hundred years, and the fact that Greek is one of nine Australian priority languages, that Australia did not support the proposal and did not vote in favour of its adoption,” the letter states.
The AHC has asked Ambassador Alblas to provide clarity on the reasoning behind Australia’s decision and is awaiting a response.
The outcome has sparked broader debate within the Greek Australian community, with many questioning how a language formally recognised as a priority in national policy could be overlooked in such a globally significant forum.
The Australian Government, through its Permanent Representative to UNESCO, refused last week to vote in favour of recognising 9 February as an International Day for the Greek Language. Via its representative, Australia declined to join the other members of UNESCO’s Executive Board in acknowledging the uniqueness of the Greek language within global civilisation.
Mr Koumoutsakos, I can confidently say, presented Australia’s Permanent Representative with arguments of particular relevance and sensitivity to Australia itself.
Australia’s decision not to support the recognition of an International Day for the Greek Language is a disgrace and an insult to Hellenism in Australia, a community that plays a leading role in the country’s economic and cultural affairs.
The Australian Government’s refusal to support this proposal — one that directly concerns the Greek ethnic minority, a group with significant contributions to Australia — is especially provocative and offensive, given that Greek has been officially recognised as one of the ten Priority Languages in Australia since 1987. Even more so, when 87 UNESCO member states had already expressed their support.
Under pressure, Australia’s Permanent Representative eventually agreed not to vote against the proposal, as did a few others for various reasons. As a result, the motion passed unanimously.
This is a major achievement, and everyone must understand the historical significance of this decision. Among other things, it is particularly important for the Greek Diaspora and the preservation of cultural identity, of which language is the most immediate and accessible component.
But this is not simply about another language being endorsed. It is about the unparalleled nature of the Greek language and its profound cultural contribution to humanity — something Australia refused to acknowledge.
It concerns the recognition of this truth, which all 195 United Nations member states — in other words, every country on the planet — are expected to affirm unanimously.
Unfortunately, Hellenism has yet to fully grasp the importance of this global recognition.
The Greek language, once studied and taught in countries with a strong Greek diaspora and strong philhellenic sentiments, will from 2026 be celebrated with events, cultural activities and competitions dedicated to our language in countries across the globe — helping make foreigners and non-Greek speakers initiates and sharers of its value.
*Professor Anastasios M. Tamis taught at Universities in Australia and abroad, was the creator and founding director of the Dardalis Archives of the Hellenic Diaspora and is currently the President of the Australian Institute of Macedonian Studies (AIMS).
The Federal Liberal Party has committed to supporting a range of Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) projects designed to enhance the organisation’s ability to expand its cultural offering, should they win the upcoming election.
At an announcement held at the Greek Centre, attended by Shadow Minister for Housing, NDIS and Social Services Michael Sukkar, Member for Menzies Keith Wolahan, candidate for Chisholm Dr Katie Allen, and candidate for Hotham Harmick Singh Matharu, a commitment was made to fund the fit-out and completion of the Community’s Multi-Arts Community Space. This includes extending the fit-out and technical capabilities of the HUB on Russell Street and completing the St Dimitrios multi-function community theatre space in Windsor.
The $1.6 million commitment across the three projects will enhance the GCM’s community outreach and enable the further development of programs.
This latest commitment would fast-track the technical fit-out of both Russell Street spaces, enabling more cultural and community projects to launch sooner.
Housing programs that range from spoken word presentations and comedy to immersive multimedia, exhibitions, and community events, the MAC (Multi-Arts Centre) is designed to celebrate emerging multicultural artists and support a variety of community initiatives.
The HUB at 272 Russell houses the GCM’s Archive and Historical Centre and features a ground-level meeting, workshop, and performance space — currently in use as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
The works at St Dimitrios Hall would continue from the current refurbishment, which is part of the Federal Government’s infrastructure investment across the GCM’s four suburban community halls in Yarraville, Brunswick, Thornbury, and Windsor.
President of the GCM Bill Papastergiadis OAM said: “It’s great that today we meet at the Greek Centre with some of the leading members of the Liberal Party and members of Parliament, who made a terrific announcement for the Greek Community of Melbourne.”
“Our organisation spans many electorates here in Melbourne and Victoria, and this announcement supports important initiatives in culture, education, and, most importantly, infrastructure — which will benefit generations to come. We want to thank Michael Sukkar, Keith Wolahan, Katie Allen, and Harmick Singh Matharu for their support. Their support has spanned multiple election cycles and campaigns, so this is not a one-off. This bipartisan support is proof that Australia is a thriving, cosmopolitan, multicultural society that values diversity,” Mr Papastergiadis added.
Announcing the support, Mr Sukkar said: “It’s a great honour to be here to announce a range of projects and upgrades. We know that the Greek Community of Melbourne punches above its weight in virtually every way, which is a great credit to Bill and his committee.”
“This is a hub of activity. The number of people who come through these doors, enjoy the space, and most importantly, feel that sense of community — that’s what you embody here. So, we see this as a great investment… That sense of family, entrepreneurialism, and a tight-knit community. And I think Easter Monday is as good a day as any to make this announcement, given how meaningful this day is for your community,” Mr Sukkar said.
MP for Menzies Mr Wolahan said: “I’m really proud of this announcement. This is such an amazing community. Many of my staff and volunteers are Greek, and they’re out there campaigning hard. Having this Centre here means a lot to many people — so it’s important that this commitment has been made.”
Candidate for Chisholm Dr Allen was equally enthusiastic and supportive.
“It’s been great to be here today. The Greek community is a much-loved, multicultural part of Melbourne. As we know, Melbourne has the third-largest Greek population in the world, and Greeks are part of the fabric of this city,” Dr Allen said.
“Having represented the electorate of Higgins, which has a large Greek population, and now as the candidate for Chisholm, I’m delighted that this Greek Cultural Centre is receiving the infrastructure boost it needs. This will help preserve the heartbeat of Greek multiculturalism, which is such an essential part of vibrant Melbourne.”
Finally, the candidate for Hotham, that features a strong Greek community presence, Mr Matharu said: “It’s an absolute honour to be here for this announcement. Earlier today I was discussing how organisations like the Greek Community of Melbourne and their facilities are vital to the wellbeing of all communities in Australia. It’s heartening to see the contribution of the Greek community and the foundations they’ve laid, which have greatly enriched the Australian way of life.”
Also attending the announcement on Easter Monday were Greek Community Board members Nick Koukouvitakis, Assoc. Prof. Marinis Pirpiris, Dr Jim Bossinakis, Dr Spiz Demetriou, and Michael Karamitos, along with a visiting delegation from Wellington, New Zealand.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Tuesday, April 22, announced a €1 billion three-part economic support plan targeting low-income pensioners, renters, and public investment, following Eurostat data showing a 1.3% fiscal surplus for Greece in 2024.
Under the plan, renters will receive a full month’s rent refund each November to help ease pressure from the country’s ongoing housing crisis. This will complement existing programs supporting home ownership for young couples.
Στόχος της κυβέρνησής μας είναι η συλλογική πρόοδος να μετατρέπεται σταδιακά και σε ατομική προκοπή. Ανακοινώνουμε σήμερα πρωτοβουλίες ύψους 1,1 δισ. ευρώ για την ενίσχυση των εισοδημάτων, με ισχύ εντός του 2025. https://t.co/FmfiQQ6oWwpic.twitter.com/peCinQYrXv
Additionally, 1.5 million low-income pensioners, the uninsured elderly, and people with disabilities will receive a permanent €250 supplement each November.
The plan also includes an annual €500 million boost to Greece’s public investment program to accelerate infrastructure projects and social initiatives.
In a poignant tribute during the Paschal season, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew mourned the passing of Pope Francis, calling him “a precious brother in Christ” and “a true friend of Orthodoxy.”
“Throughout these twelve years of his papacy, he was a faithful friend, companion, and supporter of the Ecumenical Patriarchate… He left behind an example of genuine humility and brotherly love,” said the Patriarch.
Photo: CNS photo / Vatican Media.
Reflecting on their 2014 meeting in Jerusalem, just a year after Francis’ enthronement, Bartholomew recalled, “We knelt side by side in prayer before the Lord’s Tomb,” and shared that he had proposed a joint celebration in 2025 for the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea—an idea Pope Francis had warmly welcomed: “This is an amazing thought, an amazing idea and proposal.”
Though the Pope will not see that moment, Bartholomew affirmed that the Ecumenical Patriarchate will still honour the anniversary, while the Catholic Church’s role will depend on the new Pope’s direction.
“Eternal be your memory, Brother Pope Francis,” the Patriarch concluded, offering prayers for his soul and hope for a worthy successor.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton narrowly won the third and final leaders’ debate of the federal election campaign, following a fiery exchange with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese over key issues such as the cost of living, nuclear energy, budget savings, and foreign policy.
The debate, aired on Nine’s The Great Debate, was decided 2-1 by a panel of experts. Nine political editor Charles Croucher and radio host Deborah Knight gave the edge to Dutton, while Australian Financial Review’s Phil Coorey favoured Albanese.
“Very close, but I think by far Peter Dutton’s best debate… in my eyes, he won by a nose,” Croucher said.
The debate turned heated early when Albanese accused the Coalition of slashing $80 billion from health and education in the 2014 budget.
Dutton interjected, “Prime Minister, you couldn’t lie straight in bed. Honestly, this is unbelievable.” Albanese replied, “You can go to personal abuse, that’s a sign of desperation, Peter, frankly.”
AAP FactCheck later clarified that Dutton’s 2014 plans included $50 billion in proposed but unrealised hospital spending reductions, along with $30 billion in projected education savings.
Moderator Ally Langdon criticised both leaders’ fiscal plans, saying, “I’m not sure that anyone at home is feeling that either of you are being fiscally responsible… we’re really concerned about the level of debt we’re going to be leaving our grandkids.”
Photo: Alex Ellinghausen.
Dutton backed nuclear energy, saying it was essential despite political unpopularity: “We’re paying three times the cost of electricity… compared to other parts of the world that have nuclear underpinning renewables.”
Albanese dismissed nuclear as a “friendless policy,” citing legal and state-level roadblocks. “That’s why the business community signed up to our plan… Renewables, but backed by gas, hydro and batteries,” he said.
Dutton, who previously admitted to never meeting Donald Trump, emphasised his experience with past US administrations and accused Albanese of weak diplomacy: “He can’t even get a phone call.”
Albanese called Dutton’s claim that he could negotiate tariff exemptions with Trump “complete nonsense.”
Despite the combative tone, there were brief moments of consensus. Both leaders supported making big tech pay for news and restricting under-16s from social media. Dutton said the parties were on a “unity ticket,” and Albanese called the ban “world leading.”
They also exchanged compliments when asked to name three things they admired about each other, with both citing family as a shared value.
The debate concluded a high-stakes campaign stretch with Dutton gaining momentum, though the final decision now rests with voters.
