A vibrant community of alumni, educators past and present, clergy, and friends gathered on Friday 7 March to mark the golden jubilee of the Catholic Institute of Western Australia (CIWA), celebrating 50 years of service to Catholic education and formation across the state.
Celebrating the occasion with Mass on Friday 7 March at the Chapel of St Michael the Archangel, Leederville, was Bunbury Emeritus Bishop Gerard Holohan, Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton, Geraldton Emeritus Bishop Justin Bianchini, St Charles Seminary Rector, Fr Francis Nguyen, Willetton Assistant Priest Fr CJ Millen and New Norcia Benedictine Fr Robert Nixon OSB.
Not only was the anniversary a time of reflection on five decades of dedicated service but it was also a launchpad for the next generation of educators inspired by the Catholic vision of human flourishing.
A Historic Vision, A Contemporary Mission
The Institute was born out of the vision of WA’s bishops, who saw the urgent need for a centre of theological and pastoral excellence that could support the burgeoning Catholic education sector.
Following its commencement in 1975 with inaugural Director Jesuit Fr John Prendiville SJ, 45 students enrolled in Religious Education units designed and presented by staff of (what was then called) the Catholic Pastoral Institute (CPI) and taught at the Teacher Training Colleges at Churchlands, Mount Lawley and Nedlands, in its Diploma of Teaching program.
This innovative collaboration between church and state education marked a national first.
Speaking at the 50th anniversary celebration, Catholic Institute Managing Director, Dr John Topliss spoke to the younger audience about what was occurring at the time when the Institute was formed in 1975.
“What began with just 45 students and the pioneering work of Fr John Prendiville SJ has now grown into a centre that continues to shape the theological literacy and spiritual depth of those serving in Catholic schools,” Dr Topliss said.
“Fifty years ago, there were no tuition fees thanks to Prime Minister Gough Whitlam’s reforms,” he said.
Today, we face different challenges, but our mission remains the same—helping educators form young hearts and minds in the light of the Gospel,” Dr Topliss added.
Dr Topliss continued by highlighting that at the time, median house price in Perth was around $18,850 off average earnings of around $7600.
A meat pie cost around 20 cent and a six-pack of beer cost $2.50. Qantas also just announced it has doubled the size of no smoking areas to 1/3 of its aircraft.
The population of Western Australia had just hit 1.1 million people and Perth voters had voted against making Daylight Savings being a regular occurrence after a three-month trial.
Equipping Educators for a Catholic Future
Over the decades, CIWA has evolved in its offerings while staying true to its core mission: integrating faith, life, and learning.
With partnerships at Edith Cowan University, Curtin University, and most recently with the University of Notre Dame Australia (UNDA), the Institute provides undergraduate and postgraduate units in theology, religious education, and pastoral leadership.
For prospective teachers, the Institute offers CIWA-accredited units that provide a pathway into the Catholic education system.
These units are complemented by non-university-based short courses, spiritual formation programs, and professional certificates for school leaders.
“Our students are not just learning academic content—they are engaging with a Catholic vision of the human person, the dignity of life, and their own spiritual growth,” said Dr Topliss.
“It is this formation that sets Catholic education apart and prepares graduates to lead with purpose.”
The Institute’s 2025 Prospectus features cutting-edge courses such as Catholic Pastoral Leaders and Spiritual Wellness, Science and Faith in Catholic Schools, and Leading Catholic Identity and Mission, reflecting its ongoing commitment to forming holistic, faith-filled leaders.
A New Era of Growth
In 2024, CIWA took a major step forward by signing a Strategic Alliance with UNDA, formalising its role in providing advanced formation programs for Catholic teachers across the state.
This alliance opens doors for CIWA students to pursue Graduate Diplomas or Master degrees with advanced standing at UNDA, making Catholic theological formation more accessible and integrated than ever before.
With the rise of new cultural and educational challenges, CIWA’s programs are also designed to be responsive to contemporary questions of faith and identity.
“In a pluralistic society, Catholic educators must be grounded in their own faith tradition while being able to navigate complexity with compassion and confidence,” Dr Topliss said.
“That’s what we prepare them for—both in their spiritual journey and their professional vocation.”
Why Choose CIWA?
As CIWA celebrates its golden jubilee, the Institute continues to welcome students seeking to make a difference in Catholic education.
With flexible course delivery, deeply experienced lecturers, and a warm, faith-filled environment, CIWA is more than a place of study—it is a community of formation.
Whether you are an aspiring teacher, a current educator, or someone exploring a deeper calling in Catholic leadership, CIWA offers a pathway to not only develop professionally but grow personally and spiritually.
“Our door is always open,” said Dr Topliss.
“If you want to teach with purpose, lead with faith, and be part of a mission that changes lives, then CIWA is the place for you.”
For more information or to explore 2025 study options, visit www.ciwa.wa.edu.au or contact the Institute directly at admin@ci.wa.edu.au.