The Archdiocese of Perth’s Chief of Mission Enhancement and Outreach, Dr Debra Sayce, has been appointed Executive Director of Catholic Education Tasmania.
Dr Sayce, one of Australia’s most experienced Catholic education leaders, will assume the position in January 2027.
In making the announcement, Archbishop of Hobart, the Most Reverend Anthony J. Ireland, said Dr Sayce brought extensive executive leadership experience, a deep personal commitment to Catholic education, and a strong understanding of its mission and communities to the role.
“Debra 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,” he said.
“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.”
Prior to her current role with the Archdiocese of Perth, Dr Sayce was Executive Director of Catholic Education Western Australia from 2017 to 2023, and Director of Religious Education prior to that. She has also held leadership roles as a principal and assistant principal.
At the national level, she 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.
Dr Sayce holds a Doctorate of Education from the University of Notre Dame Australia, a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Education from Edith Cowan University, together with an undergraduate degree in Education and five postgraduate diplomas.
Speaking of her appointment, Dr Sayce said she looked forward in earnest to serving the Archdiocese “in this important ministry.”
Archbishop Ireland also paid tribute to Dr Terry McCarthy, who has served as Interim Executive Director of Catholic Education Tasmania during 2026 and will continue in the role until Dr Sayce commences.
“Terry stepped calmly into this role and has been a gentle and healing presence for Catholic Education Tasmania. I thank him for coming out of retirement to put on the business suit once more,” he said.
“During these months he has given of himself generously and provided leadership, reassurance and guidance. I will be calling on him in the future!”
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.”
Dr Sayce’s appointment follows an extensive national recruitment process led by Chair of the Catholic Education Commission Tasmania, Kathryn Westwood. The selection process was supported by Chris Ryan, Executive Director – Administration of the Archdiocese of Hobart; Nichii Mardon, Director of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Port Pirie; Paul Velten, Executive Director of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Sale; and Fr Suresh Sion.