One hundred and twenty senior secondary students from across Australia gathered in Canberra recently for the National Schools Constitutional Convention, debating one of the country’s most contested constitutional questions.
The annual event, a cornerstone of the Australian Government Civics and Citizenship Education Program, brought together Years 11 and 12 students to explore Australia’s democratic framework. This year’s central question asked whether Section 53 of the Constitution should be amended to prevent the Senate from blocking supply – that is, rejecting money bills.
Students participated in structured debates and heard from distinguished guest speakers throughout the convention. New South Wales public school students, drawn from diverse regions and backgrounds, described the experience as transformative.
Emelia Greville of Jindabyne High School said the event had a lasting effect on her civic understanding.
“My understanding of the Constitution and democracy has really been enhanced,” she said. “This program has broadened my leadership and career possibilities.”
Liam Griffiths of Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School pointed to the value of engaging with peers from around the country.
“There are so many incredible people and perspectives to learn from and appreciate and affirm,” he said. “It’s deepened my understanding of both democracy and the Constitution.”
Rhea Mukherji of Cherrybrook Technology High School, whose school enrols more than 2,000 students – 75% from non-English-speaking households – underscored the significance of diverse representation at such forums.
“We all live in Australia. We all have something to say, and I feel like opportunities like these really help young Australians know what they’re getting into and know how they can actually raise their voice,” she said.
For Neve Rhodes of Grafton High School, the convention marked her first visit to Parliament House and proved decisive in her career thinking.
“This experience is definitely going to influence my future studies and leadership, and career because the whole point of me coming was to decide whether I wanted to go into politics or not,” she said. “And I think being able to experience like their job on a firsthand has really inspired me to potentially go into it.”
Teachers accompanying the delegation also reflected on what they witnessed. Callum Macdonald of Sylvania High School praised the conduct of the students throughout the event.
“I think with the way that they’ve treated each other, I think accessing opportunities like this reflect the strength of public education,” he said.
Brooke Mills of Illawarra Sports High School echoed that sentiment, noting the convention’s particular value for students in the public system.
“This opportunity is extremely valuable, especially for public education students who might not otherwise have access to such experiences,” she said.