Giving Young People A Voice

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St Joseph’s Regional College, Port Macquarie, Year 12 student Madeline Hele was chosen to debate constitutional reform issues at the highest level at the National Schools Constitutional Convention. (21 - 23 March 2023)

Congratulations to St Joseph’s Regional College, Port Macquarie, Year 12 student Madeline Hele for being selected to attend the 28th National Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC).

Madeline was among 116 Year 11 and 12 students selected from around Australia to attend the prestigious program, which was held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Canberra.

The program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education (DOE), coordinated by National Curriculum Services (NCS) and supported by the Australian Curriculum Studies Association (ACSA) and Department of Education from all states and territories. 

The topic for the 2023 NSCC was ‘Constitutional Reform - Is Section 128 still a necessary requirement to change such an important document as the Australian Constitution?’  The students experienced rich learning opportunities to guide them to be better informed about how Australia's Constitution provides a democratic framework and to encourage them to take an active interest in the operation of the Australian Government.

The NSCC was one of the best experiences of my life, as I got to discuss political issues with other like-minded people and meet some of the greatest friends from a variety of states.  I have been able to expand my knowledge and further my interest in politics as a future career path,’ said Madeline.

Madeline’s incredible three-day trip to Canberra from Tuesday, 21 March to Thursday, 23 March, involved numerous excursions to other key political and constitutional locations, including Question Time in the Federal House of Representatives, Government House, the High Court of Australia,  and the Museum of Australian Democracy.

This unique experience included lectures from keynote speakers, discussion groups, and soapbox sessions, where students were able to share their personal opinions and a mock referendum conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission.