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SA Schools Constitutional Convention

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The annual SA Schools Constitutional Convention encourages student learning about civics and citizenship, democracy, the Australian Constitution and what it means to be an Australian citizen.

Students will:

  • learn and share their views about Australia and its Constitution
  • find out how the Constitution shapes our democracy
  • learn how the Constitution promotes understanding of our democratic heritage and traditions.

The convention is designed to connect across multiple curriculum areas, and is open to all year 11 students, including government, Catholic and independent schools.

Students do not need to be enrolled in or have completed any prerequisite subjects to attend.

The SA Schools Constitutional Convention has been running since 1995. It is an initiative between the department and the Parliament of SA. It is supported by the Australian Government.

Students who attend the 2025 SA convention will be invited to apply to attend the 2026 National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra (travel, accommodation and meals will be provided).

About the 2025 convention

Friday 19 September 2025
8.30am to 3.30pm
Parliament House
North Terrace, Adelaide.

This year’s theme: Should the Constitution be easier to change?

The 2025 program includes:

  • presentations by expert speakers
  • a Q&A panel with Members of Parliament
  • group workshops
  • a debate and mock referendum in the House of Assembly Chamber.

Parliament House provides a unique venue for this learning experience with an optional tour on offer for students. Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

Students will engage with speakers presenting arguments in favour of and against making the constitution easier to change, be provided opportunities to reflect on some of the major.

We encourage nominations for any year 11 student (regional and metropolitan) interested in civics and democracy.

Pre-convention learning

Teachers will be provided with resources and suggested learning programs to support student engagement prior to the convention.

Nominating students to attend

Up to 2 students from metropolitan schools and up to 4 students from regional schools can be nominated. To nominate students, teachers should complete the nomination form by 5pm Friday 8 August 2025.

Individual schools are responsible for seeking parent/caregiver consent and transport arrangements. Registered teachers and staff from the Department for Education will be present, however schools are encouraged to provide supervision on the day.

SA Schools Constitutional Convention

Colleen DeCeukelaire, Manager Education Partnerships
Email: SchoolsConstitutionalConvention [at] sa.gov.au