Stephen is the inaugural CEO of Christian Schools Australia. He took up this position in 2002, after careers in broadcast journalism and politics.

Professional background

From 1992 until 2002, Stephen was a Member of the NSW Parliament, representing the northern Sydney seats of Ku-ring-gai and (following a redistribution) Hornsby.

Stephen served as a front-bencher in two successive Parliaments as Shadow Minister for Education and Training, Shadow Minister for Community Services, Disability Services and Ageing, Shadow Minister for Small Business and Shadow Treasurer.

Stephen chaired the Fahey Government's Policy Committee on Education and Training. In 1994 he chaired the government's inquiry into Boys’ Education. Its report, Challenges and Opportunities, helped establish new directions for gender equity nationally. Stephen also chaired the Fahey Government Policy Committee on Community Services and Disability. Parliamentary Committee appointments included the Select Committee on Homefund and the Standing Committees on ICAC, Health Care Complaints Commission and Children and Young People.

From 1980 – 92 Stephen was a broadcaster and journalist, hosting 2GB’s drivetime program the Sundown Rundown and the 1230 Report among others. In television he was a political reporter for the 730 Report (ABCTV) and the Walsh Report (TEN).

Stephen is a media commentator on political, educational and social issues, and is a regular contributor to Deborah Cameron's morning programme on ABC Radio 702 Sydney. Other appearances have included the ABC's Q and A, Insight (SBS) and Sky News.

Stephen became a Christian mid-way through his radio career and from that time has committed his personal and professional life to serving God. His ‘mission statement’ verse is Ephesians 4:1 – “Live a life worthy of the calling you have received”.

Board and Community Appointments

Stephen has extensive experience on the governing bodies of Christian and community organisations. Current roles include:

• Board Chairman of Hope Media Limited, licensee of Hope 103.2, Sydney's christian community FM station. 
• Musical Director and Principal Conductor, The Golden Kangaroos (Hornsby Concert Band) Inc. 

Previous board appointments include Brindabella Christian College (Chairman); Pacific Hills Christian School, Australian Associations of Christian Schools (Chairman), School Council member - Mt Colah PS, Wahroonga PS, Berowra PS, Member - Anglican Media Council and Management C'ttee member, Studio ARTES (Northside) Inc (providing pre-vocational training and community engagement for people with disabilities). Stephen is also a Patron of Studio ARTES. 

Family & personal interests

Stephen is married to Georgina, a scientist involved with climate change research. They have two children, James and Daniel. The family attends an Anglican church in north western Sydney.

Stephen plays clarinet and sax, and has been a conductor of school and community bands for more than 25 years. Stephen is the Musical Director of the Golden Kangaroos, a community-based concert and marching band. He also conducts the Concert Band at Pacific Hills Christian School. He writes original compositions and arrangements, mainly for band and choir. His non-work interests include family, music, community affairs, reading, occasional walks, and gardening.

He enjoys supporting his sons' various sporting activities and the Sydney Swans.

Education

Master of Education (Professional Leadership and Training)
Bachelor of Arts (Communication)

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