Anne Stanley, the member for Werriwa, wants to see teachers be recognised more in the country’s highest honours – Order of Australia.
“There aren’t many jobs more important than being a teacher,” Ms Stanley said.
“There are teachers in every community around Australia working hard in classrooms every day to provide children with the priceless gift of a good education.
“These teachers work long and passionately outside school hours and school weeks – including weekends and holidays – to prepare classes and give their all to ensure their students receive a rewarding learning experience.’’
Ms Stanley, pictured above visiting a school in her electorate last year, is a strong supporter of a new campaign launched by education minister Jason Clare to encourage more Australians to nominate a teacher for an Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
The campaign is supported by former Governor-General of Australia, Peter Cosgrove.
In the last three years, 2020-22, more than 3000 people have been awarded an OAM.
Only 11 were classroom teachers.
On Australia Day this year, a further 517 OAMs were awarded. Only one is a working teacher.
“Many teachers spend years and decades devoted to their students and their profession,’’ says Ms Stanley.
“They deserve recognition and there is no higher honour than an OAM.
“I encourage everyone – parents, associations, and community groups – to get together and nominate our local grassroots teachers for an OAM.
“Let’s get organised and give our teachers the recognition they deserve.”
There are four easy steps to nominating someone for an Order of Australia Medal:
• Make sure the teacher is an Australian citizen or permanent resident and then get the nomination form from gg.gov.au
• Fill out the nomination with teacher’s name and contact details and provide your contact details
• Explain why your teacher deserves an OAM
• List four referees to support your nomination
Well said Anne Stanley.
Keep up the hard work.