NT COGSO partners with School Representative Bodies
to advance public education.

Parent Roundtable on Wellbeing for Students – Hosted by Hon. Minister Jason Clare MP

On Friday, 22nd November, the federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare, hosted a Parent Roundtable in Sydney, bringing together parent representative organisations to discuss priority areas for national attention.

The roundtable recognised the unique insights parents bring to addressing wellbeing issues and complex challenges faced by students across Australia. These conversations were crucial in highlighting key areas for ongoing focus and improvement in education policy.

Our Executive Officer, Michelle Parker, had the opportunity to present feedback from the Northern Territory, gathered from the Annual Full Council meeting. The presentation included insights from the NTCOGSO motions, as well as the wellbeing survey results, emphasising the wellbeing challenges faced by students in the Northern Territory.

Motion on Urgency

We want to hear from you!

On the 9 November, the NTCOGSO Annual Full Council passed the following motion on urgency:

“THAT NTCOGSO urgently calls on the Education Minister to ensure that school bus transport services prioritise and improve student safety, provide adequate supervision and a secure environment for all Northern Territory students on their journeys to and from school.”

The NTCOGSO President will soon meet with the Chief Executive and Minister for Education and Training to address this issue. We’d appreciate your feedback on any concerns or insights you have regarding student safety on school bus transport.

Financial and Resource Manual

As requested by School Council and Board members, NTCOGSO has created a simplified guide of FARMS inclusive of the relevant financial and resource management functions applicable to you as members. Link to download is below.

IMPORTANT: Members must refer to the FULL AND COMPLETE FARMS MANUAL prior to making financial and resource management decisions.

Our calendar is filling fast for 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) support. 

Please reach out to book your AGM support now! 

Important AGM reminders: 

• Must be held by 15 March 2025 

• 14 days notice required  

• Audited Financial Report (AFR) and Management Letter must be provided to members 14 days prior. 

• AGM cannot proceed without the AFR  

Speak with your Principal and Business Manager to ensure that your Council/Board is prepared to meet the required timeline for your 2025 AGM.

Improved Complaint Process Now Online

The Department of Education and Training has launched a new and improved online complaint form as part of the refreshed Complaint Resolution Framework (CRF). This user-friendly form makes it easier for parents and students to share their concerns, ensuring essential details are captured to help schools resolve issues efficiently. Schools are instantly notified of submissions, streamlining the process for all parties.

This update represents a step forward in improving communication and support for school communities.

For more details or to share feedback, email resolution.doe@education.nt.gov.au.

That's my water!

Registrations open now

Registrations are open for Power and Water’s 2025 That’s My Water! education program. This program offers hands-on learning with STEM professionals to explore water sustainability. Students are challenged to create social action projects and contribute to a more sustainable future.

The programs also include whole of school water efficiency, identifying ways to save water and detect leaks. Past participants have cut water use by nearly 50%, leading to substantial savings.

Programs are available for Years 3-7 in the Darwin region and Years 2-10 for remote schools.

Spaces are limited. Link below for more information and to submit your expression of interest.

Image Credit: www.afl.com.au

Champion leader!

A massive congratulations to Barunga School Principal, Malcolm Hales on winning the prestigious 2024 BHP Community Coach of the Year award at the annual W Awards in Melbourne on Monday night. Malcolm is the Coach of the highly successful Arnhem Crows Football Club and has worked tirelessly to promote and develop pathways for women and girls involved in Australian Rules Football.

Well done Malcolm!!