Every day in our public schools there are 35,000 School Administrative and Support Staff who help keep our schools running efficiently and provide comprehensive support to principals, teachers and parents.

Our SAS staff play many roles supporting the efficient management of schools, including administration, health and safety, asset management, project management and finance.

They include school administrative managers and officers, school learning support officers, Aboriginal education officers, business managers, assisted travel officers, technical support officers, general assistants and farm assistants.

SASS Recognition Week, which starts today, is an initiative of the Public Service Association – supported by the department – to promote the work and role of SAS staff.

These staff are often the first point of contact for parents and play a vital role in customer service. With an incredible year so far – bushfires, floods, COVID-19 – our staff have had to be increasingly flexible to adapt to changing scenarios and pandemic restrictions.

On behalf of the Department of Education, thank you for your service and commitment.