The classic image of Australia as a new and young country of opportunity and promise is an illusion. We are not a young country. We have history, languages, cultures, lore and traditions going back tens of millennia. We live in diverse places across the continent which historically recognised hundreds of First Nations. We, as Australians should all be proud to have a direct lineage to the world’s oldest, continuous culture and civilisation. We are a country whose very earth and land formation speak to deep time, history, mythology and dreaming. What we can agree on is that we are a country of opportunity.

Sydney, Monday, 13th February 2023

The Edmund Rice Centre for Justice and Community Education (ERC) welcomes news of the change in policy towards Temporary Protection (TPV) and Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) holders by the Albanese Labor Government.

On 26th January 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip raised the Union Jack and proclaimed British sovereignty over the eastern part of the Australian continent. What historically started as a day to celebrate the founding of the British colony of New South Wales, January 26th has now become a day when many Australians celebrate national identity and unity.

Dear Friends,

As some you may have already heard, after nearly 27 years in the role, I am resigning as Director of the Edmund Rice Centre. My last day will be January 31.

Next year, from early February to June 30, I will be working part-time on special projects for the Centre before taking a break and then commencing private consultancy work in 2024.

It has been an honour and a privilege to work with Edmund Rice Centre for the past quarter of a century and a bit, but now is the right time for me to step back.