About the Australian Catholic Primary Principals’ Association (ACPPA)

The Australian Catholic Primary Principals’ Association (ACPPA) represents more than 1,200 Catholic primary school principals across the country. With a strong focus on advocacy, leadership support and principal wellbeing, effective communication and operational efficiency are critical to fulfilling its national mission.

The Challenge: Inconsistency and Administrative Burden

With only one full-time staff member, ACPPA faced persistent challenges in managing communication and document sharing across its Board. Without consistent systems or processes in place, communication was primarily handled via email—often with long threads and multiple attachments—making version control difficult and day-to-day operations increasingly complex.

This created an unnecessary administrative burden and risked slowing progress on key initiatives. Additionally, it placed added pressure on time-poor volunteer Board members who needed clear, accessible information to effectively collaborate.

The Solution: One Consolidated Platform

After evaluating several platforms, ACPPA chose Higher Logic for its ability to consolidate communication, file sharing, and member engagement tools in one intuitive, secure solution. Higher Logic’s software offered the right mix of usability, functionality, and outstanding customer support—critical for an association with limited internal resources.

From implementation through to training, ACPPA was supported by a responsive, knowledgeable team who provided tailored assistance at every step. Even those with limited technical experience were able to get comfortable using the software quickly.

Transitioning to Higher Logic enabled ACPPA to centralise Board communications and document storage, eliminating the need for fragmented tools like Dropbox and email chains. It also allowed the association to step away from its school-based communications platform and adopt a more professional, fit-for-purpose solution designed specifically for member-based organisations.

The Results: Better Processes, Better Experience

Since launching the community platform, ACPPA has seen a noticeable difference in:

• Reduced inbox clutter: Board Directors no longer waste time searching for emails or attachments—key discussions and files are located in one easily accessible place.
• Improved version control: A single source of truth for Board papers ensures clarity and consistency.
• Streamlined decision-making: Active conversations and collaboration now happen within the community, driving faster, more effective outcomes.
• A positive user experience: The platform’s intuitive design has empowered users of all tech skill levels to participate with confidence.

What’s Next: Enhancing Connections

Building on the success of its Board implementation, ACPPA is now preparing to roll out the platform more broadly to connect and engage its wider principal network across Australia. With integrated tools for marketing automation, email communication and targeted content delivery, the platform will enable ACPPA to deliver relevant information and foster stronger relationships at a national level.

ACPPA’s long-term vision is to use the platform not only to streamline operations but to unite and empower school leaders—enhancing wellbeing, strengthening peer connection, and amplifying advocacy efforts.

The adoption of Higher Logic marks a turning point in ACPPA’s digital journey. With the right technology in place, the association is better positioned to connect, support and represent Catholic primary school principals—ensuring every member feels part of a stronger, more united community.