School councils play a key role in Victorian government schools. Participating as a school council member is a rewarding and challenging experience. The school council supports the principal to provide the b​​est possible educational outcomes for students.

​All school councils in Victoria operate under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006.

School councils have three main responsibilities:

• finance: overseeing the development of the school’s annual budget and ensuring proper records are kept of the school’s financial operation
• strategic planning: participating in the development and monitoring of the school strategic plan
• policy development and review: developing, reviewing and updating policies that reflect a school’s values and support the school’s broad direction outlined in its strategic plan.

Other key functions of school councils include:

• raising funds for school related purposes
• maintaining school grounds and facilities
• entering into contracts
• reporting annually to the school community and the Department
• creating interest in the school in the wider community
• representing and taking the views of the community into account
• regulating and facilitating after-hours use of school premises and grounds
• operating a children’s service at the school.

The school council is comprised of parents, teachers, the Principal and community representatives. School councillors nominate for the various sub-committees, which report back to council. The three sub-committees are Finance, Education (formerly Engagement and Wellbeing) and Buildings and Grounds.

The term of office for school councillors is two years with elections held each February/March. The School Council and Finance sub-committee usually meet monthly, with the other sub-committees meeting each term. All parents are encouraged to consider nominating for Council vacancies, or attending sub-committee meetings.

2023 School Council President: Matt Hall

Parent Electorate:
Kate Ashdown

James Goode

Matthew Hall

Grace Kelly

Christina Smith (Community Member - Parents Group)

Dept of Education Electorate:

Jo Braden

Jacqui Purcell

Kathy Verbi

Executive Officer: Principal - Kim Dray

Standing Orders for Laburnum Primary School Council