Australia’s peak body for Catholic education has appointed a veteran policymaker and former Senate president as its new executive director, replacing Jacinta Collins, who stepped down this year after seven years in the role.
In a statement today, the National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) announced that Scott Ryan – a national leader with “extensive education policy knowledge” – will be stepping into the role from 19 January 2026.
When Ryan begins his tenure as NCEC executive director on 19 January 2026, he will be overseeing an organisation that represents more than 820,000 students enrolled in 1,751 Catholic schools nationwide – a gargantuan role, but one he is well positioned to lead.
Ryan has worked through several major reforms as a ministerial adviser, Parliamentary Secretary and Assistant Minister for Education, and later as Minister for Vocational Education and Skills. He also served as Australia’s High Commissioner to Canada and held senior roles in the Federal Parliament, including President of the Senate and Special Minister of State.
“The demand for faith-driven education is growing as parents and families seek more than curriculum,” Ryan said in a statement. “As well as quality teachers and a school community of shared values, they seek a faith and ethical framework for their children which can guide them throughout their lives.”
Ryan said he’s stepping into the role at a time when families’ expectations of schools — and of Catholic education in particular — are rapidly changing.
“This upswing in the growth of Catholic education presents both an opportunity and a responsibility – one I am delighted to have the privilege to lead.”
In an interview with The Educator following her decision to retire in 2026, Collins said she has had “a rich and fulfilling career” and has loved her time with the NCEC.
“When I left political life to lead the organisation, I admit I thought it might be a lighter pace, but I could not have been more wrong,” Collins told The Educator.
“Taking on the role at the height of a funding debate was a significant challenge, and the stability that emerged from those negotiations is something I am proud to have helped achieve. Similarly, our work with state and territory leaders and governments around protecting religious freedom has been an important contribution to maintaining the integrity of faith-based schools.”
When asked about her vision for Catholic education over the next decade, Collins said her hope is focused on equity and access.
“I envision a system where every student can receive an excellent education, regardless of where they live or their family’s financial means; a system that ends the ‘lesson lottery,’ ensuring quality curriculum materials and pedagogical practices are available to all,” she said.
“Finally, a system where faith practice is both protected and accessible, allowing everyone to participate in what makes Catholic communities so special.”