Gen Z backs GenAI
Young Australians are embracing generative AI tools such as ChatGPT to learn, create and even seek emotional support. But concerns about deepfakes, job loss, and creative theft are influencing how they use the technology, a new report reveals.
The Insight Centre’s report, From Gen Z to GenAI, surveyed more than 1000 people aged 14–27 and found nearly 90% had used GenAI, with 74% using it to support their studies. Despite fears about cheating, 82% of students said they would not use AI to plagiarise in the future. ‘There’s a clear tension between the opportunities Gen Z sees in AI and the concerns they hold about its impact,’ Dr Anna Denejkina, the report’s author said.
The report also highlights a gender gap, with young men twice as likely as women to feel confident using GenAI. Women were more likely to fear deepfakes and creative theft.
Schools urged to create safe, welcoming spaces for First Nations students
Remote schools need to shift focus from attendance rates to creating safe, culturally inclusive environments that engage First Nations students, a new study reveals.
Research led by associate professor John Guenther from Flinders University found that First Nations students are more likely to connect and succeed when schools foster a sense of safety, respect, and cultural inclusion. The study challenges education policies that measure success solely by attendance, urging schools to prioritise welcoming spaces over blaming families for absences. A copy of this research is available here.
New Charism guide
A new document on charisms seeks to engage all the baptised in the evangelising mission of the Church. ‘Gifted for the Mission: An Introduction to Charisms’ was developed by the Bishops Commission for Evangelisation, Laity and Ministry and its advisory council over the past 12 months.
‘Gifted for the Mission’ introduces the concept of charisms through reference to the writings of St Paul. It then traces the history of charisms in the life of the Church and provides examples of Christians who have used their charisms to bring God's mercy and salvation into the lives of others. Find out more here.
New appointments for Bishops Commission for Catholic Education
Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP has been re-elected as Chair of the Bishops Commission for Catholic Education (BCCE), continuing his leadership at a time of opportunity and challenge for the Catholic education sector.
The Bishop of Wagga Wagga, Mark Edwards OMI, returns to the Commission, bringing valuable pastoral experience and insight. Joining the BCCE for the first time is the Bishop of Cairns, Joe Caddy AM. The Commission farewelled Tony Ireland, Auxiliary Bishop of Melbourne.
The BCCE’s remaining members are Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney, Daniel Meagher, and Jacinta Collins, executive director of the National Catholic Education Commission, who serves as executive secretary.
Public backs action on sugary drinks, research shows
A new national survey has revealed strong public support for government measures to curb sugary and sweetened drink consumption, prompting public health experts to urge the Albanese government to act.
Published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, the study found 83% of Australians support clearer warning labels on sugary drinks, 73% back a ban on marketing to children, and 56% favour a health levy tax. Lead author Professor Caroline Miller said sugary drinks were a key contributor to obesity, now the nation’s leading preventable disease burden.
PHAA CEO Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin called for action similar to the government’s anti-smoking and vaping measures, saying Australians expect leadership to protect children and help people make informed choices. The survey also showed support for better labelling of diet drinks and fruit juice, with health experts warning these are not healthy alternatives.
In brief
Jacqueline Wilkinson has been appointed Director of Schools for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. With 35 years of experience, she has served in roles from classroom teacher to Acting Director.
Eighty-two early career teachers were formally welcomed into Catholic education in Canberra-Goulburn at a recent Commissioning Mass at St Christopher’s Cathedral, Manuka.
What’s on
Pilgrims of Hope – National liturgy and music conference: Join liturgists, musicians, and educators from across Australia and New Zealand for three days of workshops, worship, and keynote talks by Rita Ferrone, Fr Ricky Manalo CSP and Fr Richard Leonard SJ. Hosted by the APMN and NLC, the conference explores how liturgy and music can renew our communities in hope.
When: 1 – 3 October 2025.
Where: Hilton Hotel, Adelaide
Register by 31 May for early bird rates here
Free webinar on the New National Framework: Learn about the new National Framework for assessing children’s functional strengths and support needs in Australia. Presented by Prof David Trembath and Dr Rachelle Wicks. For practitioners, parents, and policy makers.
Date: Tuesday, 3 June
Time: 1pm (AEST)
Register here.