Industrial Action - Advance notice

We have been informed last night that there is planned Industrial Action to occur on Thursday 23rd July .

At this stage, we have no confirmed numbers of staff that will be participating in the action and hence the impact on the school's program for the day is unknown. However, similar action earlier this year meant that only children in two year levels attended school on the day. There may be more or less staff involved this time.

May you please prepare for the possibility that your child will not be in attendance at school on that day. Confirmation will be provided to you all no later than Wednesday 22nd July at 2:00 pm but no earlier than Tuesday morning. It is not possible to be earlier than this due to the timelines that are to be adhered to.

Further information in relation to the proposed action will be provided to you as soon as it is known.

AusAlert

We’ve been advised that a national test of AusAlert will happen across Australia on Monday 27 July at 2 pm.

AusAlert is a new, national emergency warning system. It sends warning messages to compatible mobile devices during emergencies, to keep people informed so they can act quickly. The Australian Government plans to launch AusAlert in October 2026.

On Monday 27 July at 2 pm, all compatible mobile devices will receive a Critical Alert. Compatible mobile devices include phones, tablets, smart watches, safety watches and some vehicle devices. These will vibrate and make a loud, siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds. This will happen even if they are on silent or do not disturb. The message will clearly state that it is a test. No action is required from the test.

To minimise disruption, student phones and smart devices should always be switched off and stored securely in lockers or bags during the school day. Students who use their mobile phone as part of a documented exception can continue to do so. If appropriate, they can turn their phone off during the test.

You may also wish to let your child know that if they see or hear the alert, school staff will support them. You can learn more at AusAlert: children and teens. Information is also available in other languages.

Safe phones

AusAlert may increase risk for people experiencing violence, especially if they live with someone who uses violence. Alerts may expose safety devices.

If you or someone you know has a hidden device, the best way to stay safe during the test is to:

turn off your mobile device or put it in aeroplane mode
keep your device off or in aeroplane mode for 24 hours.

Silent mode and do not disturb will not stop the alert.

For more information, please refer to the Staying safe with AusAlert page.

Assembly News

Our first assembly of the term will be held next Friday 24th July. This coming Friday, after lunch during our regular assembly time, children will be engaging in a variety of NAIDOC activities .

We will share further information about this special focus in next week's newsletter.

Staffing Update

We would like to let our school community know that Jo Reid is currently on leave and will not be returning to Golden Square Primary School.

Over many years, Jo has been a valued member of our wellbeing team, supporting many students and families. We thank Jo for her dedication and contribution to our school community and wish them all the very best for the future.

As we move into the second half of the year, we want to reassure families that the wellbeing of our students remains a priority. Students continue to be supported by their classroom teachers, our wellbeing team which includes ourselves, our Mental Health & Wellbeing Leader, Social Worker and SEL teacher. Together, we remain committed to ensuring every child feels safe, supported and ready to learn.

Victorian State School Spectacular