Bishops appoint new Catholic education peak body Chair

The Bishops of Queensland have announced the appointment of Ms Madeline Brennan KC as the inaugural Chair of Catholic Education Queensland (CEQ).

“Ms Brennan’s outstanding leadership as the current Chair of the Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC) has been instrumental in guiding the organisation through significant developments. Her experience will be invaluable as we transition to a new governance structure,” Archbishop Mark Coleridge said.

Following an extensive review, the Bishops in February announced the formation of CEQ as a company limited by guarantee to replace QCEC from 1 January 2026. The new company will feature an independent board overseeing accountability, compliance, and advocacy functions, while preserving the voice of frontline educators through a new Catholic Education Leaders Committee.

Ms Brennan brings to the role deep experience not only in the law but also in a range of government and community organisations, including as a past member of the Ethics Committee of the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Mater Health Services board, and All Hallows’ School Council.

“We would like to thank Ms Brennan for all she has done and continues to do for our Queensland Catholic School Authorities, their schools and for all the families in our communities who choose a Catholic education,” Archbishop Coleridge said.

“We look forward to working alongside Ms Brennan.”