Hobart Archbishop Anthony Ireland has announced the appointment of Debra Sayce as the new executive director of Catholic Education Tasmania. Source: Hobart Archdiocese.
Dr Sayce, one of Australia’s most experienced Catholic education leaders, will take up the position in January 2027.
“Debra brings to this new role extensive executive leadership experience, a deep personal commitment to Catholic education and a strong understanding of its mission and communities,” Archbishop Ireland said.
“She is already well known to many within Catholic education and has served the Church with distinction in senior leadership positions in Western Australia and at the national level.
“I am delighted that she has accepted this important responsibility in Tasmania. Catholic education is one of the great works of the Church in this state, and Debra brings considerable experience, energy and commitment to its continuing mission.”
Dr Sayce served as executive director of Catholic Education Western Australia from 2017 to 2023 and is currently chief of mission enhancement and outreach in the Perth Archdiocese.
Her extensive career in Catholic education has included service as director of Religious Education for Catholic Education Western Australia, as well as leadership roles as a principal and assistant principal.
At the national level, Dr Sayce has been a long-serving member of the National Catholic Education Commission and has contributed to its Resource Standing Committee, Finance and Risk Committee, and Religious Education and Formation Committee.
Her contribution to education has also received significant professional recognition, including the Australian Council for Educational Leaders’ Pre-eminent Educational Leader Award.
Speaking of her appointment, Dr Sayce said: “I cannot thank you enough for this incredible opportunity to serve the archdiocese in this important ministry. I am very excited and look forward to 2027 at CET. I will work in earnest to serve CET to the very best of my ability.”
The appointment follows an extensive national recruitment process led by chair of the Catholic Education Commission Tasmania, Kathryn Westwood.
Archbishop Ireland said Dr Sayce’s appointment marked an important new chapter for Catholic education in Tasmania.
“Our Catholic schools have a wonderful mission: to educate young people within communities where faith and learning belong together, and where every student is invited to discover the fullness of life that Christ offers.
“I look forward very much to working with Debra as we strengthen that mission and serve the students, families and communities entrusted to our care.”
FULL STORY
Dr Debra Sayce appointed Executive Director of Catholic Education Tasmania (By Catherine Sheehan, Hobart Archdiocese)
