Who We Are
Catholic Education Queensland Limited (CEQL) is the peak body representing Catholic education in Queensland. CEQL works with the five diocesan school authorities and 18 Religious Institutes and other incorporated bodies which operate Catholic schools within the state.
Following a 2024 governance review commissioned by the Queensland Bishops, CEQL replaced the Queensland Catholic Education Commission as the new peak body from 1 January 2026.
CEQL holds a state-wide strategic role focused on advancing Catholic education. It is led by an independent board supported by a central office. CEQL also draws on the wisdom and expertise within the Catholic education sector through a series of committees.
Our Vision
A united Catholic education sector inspiring participation in faith-based learning for a hope-filled future
Our Mission
To enable and shape Catholic education that is guided by faith; and is progressive, valued by the communities we serve, and accessible.
Strategic Plan 2026
Working within a dynamic and evolving environment, Catholic Education Queensland Limited (CEQL) now serves as the peak body for Catholic education in Queensland, following the transition from the Queensland Catholic Education Commission. As a newly established entity, CEQL is working to develop its first Strategic Plan, which will set clear priorities and objectives for the years ahead and is scheduled for launch later this year. This work is being undertaken through collaborative and reflective engagement with partners across the sector.
Our story began in 1845, when Queensland’s first Catholic school opened with 56 students taught by Michael and Mary Bourke in an old government store. Today, Catholic education in Queensland encompasses 313 schools, educating more than 167,000 students across the state.
At the heart of this work is a shared commitment to the education of young people within the Catholic faith tradition, supporting them to become resilient individuals, respectful of others, capable of shaping their own futures, building meaningful lives, and contributing to their communities wherever they live in Queensland.
Commitment to Student Safety
CEQL is supporting staff across schools and early years settings to implement the Child Safe Standards and Reportable Conduct Scheme, equipping Catholic education communities with the resources and guidance they need to meet their obligations and prioritise student safety.
Annual Reports
Prior to the transition to CEQL, the Queensland Catholic Education Commission produced an Annual Report to detail activities and achievements and to report financial information.
Reconciliation Action Plan
Our vision for reconciliation is for everyone to be treated with equal respect and dignity and for the wisdom of our First Nations’ Peoples to be acknowledged and embraced. CEQL is committed to the achievement of authentic reconciliation, justice, equity and healing.
From the Chief Executive Officer
Welcome to Catholic Education Queensland Limited.
CEQL supports Queensland’s 313 Catholic schools who educate more than 167,000 students and employ more than 22,000 teachers and school staff.
Our role is a state-wide strategic one focused on advocacy, liaison with state and federal governments and other education stakeholders, and the administration of government funding to Catholic School Authorities.
With one in five students in Queensland attending a Catholic school, it is important that our sector retains a strong voice in the discussion of all education issues.
CEQL is dedicated to ensuring that all families who choose a Catholic education for their children can have access to high quality, affordable, faith-based education, responsive to the needs and challenges of contemporary Australian society.
Allan Blagaich
