The NSWP is an initiative funded by the Commonwealth Government to support the wellbeing of Australian school students through chaplaincy and/or student wellbeing services. Previously called the National School Chaplaincy Program (NSCP), the purpose of the NSWP is to support the wellbeing of the broader school community through the provision of pastoral care services and strategies, developed in consultation with the school community, relevant school staff and principal. These may include volunteering activities, breakfast clubs, excursions, lunchtime activities and parent/carer workshops.

Catholic Schools NSW (CSNSW) is the sector authority responsible for assessing applications, managing, and allocating funding. The program is voluntary for all schools and students.

Applications for the 2024-2027 round of funding will open mid-2023.

Schools receiving NSCP funding in 2022 are eligible to continue receiving funding under the NSWP in 2023. A list of participating Catholic schools can be found here.

Catholic schools must enact general complaints handling processes for managing complaints related to individual chaplains or wellbeing officers. In accordance with the program guidelines CSNSW must be notified of any complaints against chaplains or wellbeing officers.

As part of the NSWP (formerly the NSCP), all funded chaplains and wellbeing officers must complete free professional learning in preventing and responding to cyberbullying, provided by the eSafety Commissioner. Chaplains/wellbeing officers can register for the training now at https://www.esafety.gov.au/educators/training-for-professionals/national-school-chaplaincy-program.

CSNSW acknowledges and recognises the role of the Commonwealth and NSW Governments in supporting this wellbeing initiative.

For further information, please contact Nathan Smith (Senior Policy Officer, Wellbeing, Catholic Schools NSW).