What we do

APEN works at the intersection of education, culture, climate justice, human rights, and Indigenous sovereignty, recognising that learning is deeply connected to identity, community, and the broader social and environmental realities shaping Pasifika lives. We work across advocacy, research, professional learning, leadership development, and community partnerships to strengthen pathways for Pasifika learners, educators, families, and communities across Australia and the Pacific.

Our work spans early childhood, school, tertiary, community, and lifelong learning contexts, with a strong focus on systems change, culturally responsive practice, and Pacific-led solutions that centre our voices, knowledges, and futures.

 

Our Key Areas of Work

• Research and advocacy: Driving policy reform and evidence-based change for Pasifika learners

• Professional learning: Building educator capability through culturally grounded practice

• Leadership and scholarship: Including the Tavake Pasifika Doctoral Society and emerging leaders

• National convening: Through APEN’s biennial conference and sector partnerships

• Climate justice and human rights: Connecting education with the realities shaping Pacific futures.

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Purpose and Charitable Objects

APEN exists to advance equitable and culturally responsive education for Pasifika learners in Australia.

The organisation works to:

• Advocate for education systems, policies, and practices that are equitable, inclusive, and culturally responsive to the needs of Pasifika learners.

• Build platforms that amplify Pasifika leadership, voice, and visibility across the education sector.

• Strengthen connections between educators, learners, families, and communities through research, mentoring, and community-centred initiatives.

• Promote and embed the recognition and integration of Pasifika languages, identities, histories, and cultural knowledge within learning environments.

• Relieve educational disadvantage and support the wellbeing of Pasifika learners through advocacy, scholarships, partnerships, and community support initiatives.

 

Not-for-Profit Commitment

APEN operates as a not-for-profit organisation. All income and property of the organisation are applied solely toward advancing the organisation’s charitable objects. No income or assets are distributed to members except as reasonable compensation for services provided to the organisation.

Review our Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Certificate.

 

Governance

APEN is governed by a Board responsible for strategic direction, organisational accountability, and compliance with legal and regulatory obligations. The Board works collaboratively with educators, researchers, community leaders, and institutional partners to ensure APEN’s work remains grounded in community priorities and supports Pasifika learner success across all levels of education. Review our Constitution.

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Legal and Governance

The Australian Pasifika Educators Network Inc (APEN) is an Australian not-for-profit, community-led organisation committed to advancing educational equity, leadership, and wellbeing for Pasifika learners, educators, and communities across Australia.

APEN was incorporated in New South Wales on 13 July 2023 and operates under the Associations Incorporation Act 2009 (NSW). The organisation complies with relevant legislation including the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 (Cth).

 

Organisation Details

Organisation name: Australian Pasifika Educators Network Incorporated
ABN: 19 550 939 068

NSW Fair Trading Registration Number: INC2300757
Official website: www.pasifikaeducators.com.au

Learn more about our vision, values, and strategic priorities on our section about our APEN Vision and Purpose.