Parent Organisations

Getting involved in your child's school can be a rewarding experience. There are many types of school activities and parents/caregivers are always welcome to participate.

The Federation of Parents and Citizens' (P&C) Association was established in 1912 and represents, at state level, more than 2,100 public school parents and citizens' associations.

These associations are made up of parents/caregivers, citizens, teachers and students. The federation is committed to fostering the parent-teacher partnership at every level within the Department and celebrating the achievements of the government school system.

Members of the P&C attend regular school meetings and work with the school on fundraising and other activities within the school, such as organising working bees and holding gift stalls and fetes.

The Federation offers its member P&Cs a range of services such as insurance, incorporation, legal services and advice on all matters relevant to parents.

The Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG) provides support to Aboriginal communities on Aboriginal education and related issues. It is a community based Aboriginal organisation made up of volunteers and has regional and local branches throughout the state. It aims to promote involvement and participation of Aboriginal communities in the development of Aboriginal education policy in NSW.

For general enquiries and information about starting a local AECG contact:

The NSW AECG Inc.
Secretariat Offices
37 Cavendish Street
Stanmore NSW 2048

The Isolated Children's Parents' Association (ICPA) is a voluntary non-profit organisation formed in 1971 which seeks access to education for geographically isolated children. It is the only parent organisation representing children being educated under both government and non-government systems.

ICPA continues to achieve and seek improvement in educational opportunities for all children living in remote and rural areas through its involvement in education allowances, distance education, boarding schools/agricultural high school/hostels, small rural schools, travel, curriculum, communications, country areas program, special education, early childhood and tertiary education.

For further information about the ICPA in NSW contact:

The Secretary
Mary Butler
'Palari'
Balranald NSW 2715
Phone Number: 03 5020 6884

About 70 percent of NSW Public Schools have school councils. Their role is to set policies and goals for their school according to the needs of students and the local community. Each council is made up of parents and caregivers, staff, community members and, in some cases, students.

If you would like to find out more about school councils, you can request a copy of All About School Councils, available in 22 languages (including English) from your school or local district office.