Parents Voice in Government School Education

Media release – celebrating 100 years

Parents Victoria celebrates 100 years of supporting Victorian public school families

Today, Parents Victoria proudly marks its centenary — 100 years since the formation of the organisation that has championed the voices, needs, and rights of parents and carers in Victorian government schools.

Founded on 26 November 1925 as the Victorian Federation of Mothers Clubs, Parents Victoria has evolved over a century into a statewide, non‑party political nonprofit organisation supporting parent clubs and families, advocating for public education, and representing parent perspectives to government, schools, and the broader community.
Read more about our history on our website.

A Legacy of Parent Leadership & Advocacy

From its early days, Parents Victoria has been driven by the power of grassroots parent action: in 1925, delegates from 19 Mothers’ Clubs came together to formalise their commitment to public education. Over the decades, the organisation has been a persistent voice on issues that matter — cost of schooling, immunisation, school crossing safety, equitable funding, discipline policies, and more.

In the 1970s, the Federation played a part in establishing annual grants to schools, school councils, and parent representation.

In the 1980s, the organisation advocated for abolishing corporal punishment in schools and for parents to have a say in selecting school principals.

In 2000, the organisation renamed to Parents Victoria, reflecting its broader role across Victoria.

In 2003, Parents Victoria successfully campaigned for 40 km/h speed limits around schools, demonstrating its influence on community safety.

Parents Victoria continues to champion fully funded public schools and to insist that our education system actively supports meaningful family engagement and parent-school partnerships, which are essential to student success.

To all the parents, carers, and volunteers who have given their time, passion, and voice to Parent Clubs over the decades — thank you. Your dedication to Victorian public education has shaped our organisation and strengthened our communities. We stand on the shoulders of your tireless work, and we are deeply grateful.

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