BCE launches inaugural First Nations Student Voice Council

A collective of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student leaders are ready to shape the future of Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE), having been selected to serve on the inaugural BCE First Nations Student Voice Council in 2026.

The BCE First Nations Student Voice Council has been established initially as a pilot to provide a culturally informed platform for young people to contribute to decision-making processes, while strengthening their leadership skills, deepening connections to community, and helping guide initiatives that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across the system.

Throughout the pilot program, students participated in a range of opportunities, including online gatherings, leadership development sessions, and a Term 3 visit to The University of Queensland. During the visit, students engaged in sessions focused on critical thinking and media literacy, explored the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Support Unit, took part in a design workshop and an exercise science session, and learned about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership.

As part of the Council's work, students will also develop recommendations that can help shape future BCE policies, programs, and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Senior Manager, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education, Dr Mayrah Dreise, said the Council reflected BCE's commitment to ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have a meaningful voice in shaping their own educational experiences.

"The First Nations Student Voice Council was established because we know our students are the experts in their own experiences,” she said.

“Creating a dedicated space where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can come together, share their perspectives, and help shape future priorities ensures their voices are not only heard, but genuinely influence decision-making.

“This council is about empowering young leaders, strengthening connections to culture and community, and creating better outcomes for current and future generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across BCE.”

Aligned with the BCE Molum Sabe Strategy, the initiative demonstrates BCE's commitment to listening to, valuing, and responding to the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, ensuring their perspectives help guide future educational outcomes and opportunities.

The 2026 BCE First Nations Student Voice Council Members include:

Year 12 student Kane, St Peter Claver College, Riverview,

Year 12 student Rylan, St Peter Claver College, Riverview,

Year 10 student Finn, St Augustine's College, Augustine Heights,

Year 10 student Macy, St Augustine's College, Augustine Heights,

Year 10 student Nate, St John's College, Nambour,

Year 12 student Holly, St John's College, Nambour,

Year 11 student Indie,  Siena Catholic College, Sippy Downs,

Year 10 student Koda, St Teresa's Catholic College, Noosaville,

Year 10 student Ruby, St Teresa's Catholic College, Noosaville.

BCE Head of School Performance and Reconciliation Action Plan Committee Member Brett Horton said that, as a member of the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group and BCE RAP Champion, he sees the Student Voice Council as a practical and meaningful step towards achieving true and lasting reconciliation.

“Student voice and agency are essential to shaping and advancing meaningful change across our system of 146 schools,” he said.

“More importantly, the Council will empower young people to contribute to decisions that affect their learning, their communities, and their futures.

“When students are genuinely heard and valued, we create opportunities for deeper understanding, stronger relationships, and shared responsibility.”

A thank you event will be held on 21 October recognising and celebrating the BCE students participating in the First Nations Student Voice Council in 2026.

About Molum Sabe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Strategy 2026-2027

Molum Sabe is BCE’s commitment to strengthening educational excellence, cultural safety and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff, and communities.

Guided by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, Molum Sabe reflects deep listening, partnership and respect. It recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as knowledge holders, leaders and decision-makers, and honours their enduring connections to Country, culture and community.

Image caption: (From left to right) St Augustine's College, Augustine Heights students Finn and Macy, Turrbal Elder and Traditional Custodian Aunty Sandra King, St John's College, Nambour students Nate and Holly. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).