Remembering Steve Sedgwick AO KSG – A life of service, leadership, and faith

Steve Sedgwick (front) with (From Left) Archbishop Comonsoli, Dallas McInerney and Archbishop Fisher OP

The Catholic community is mourning the loss of Steve Sedgwick AO KSG, who passed away peacefully on Monday, November 25, after a short illness.

Mr. Sedgwick, the inaugural Chair of Catholic Schools NSW, leaves a legacy of service and dedication to the Church, education, and the broader Australian community.

Mark Dorney, the current Chair of Catholic Schools NSW, expressed his heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Board.

“Steve was a dedicated servant of the Church and played a significant role in the early success of CSNSW. On behalf of the Board, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family.”

Throughout his tenure as Chairman, Mr. Sedgwick was known for his deep commitment to faith and education.

Dallas McInerney, CEO of Catholic Schools NSW, shared Mr Sedgewick’s profound impact on his career.

“Seeing his discipleship in action as the inaugural Chairman of Catholic Schools NSW and his representational skills in Government on behalf of the Church has been a true gift.”

Mr Sedgwick’s contributions extended far beyond his role at Catholic Schools NSW.

His remarkable public service career saw him serving as the youngest Australian Public Service Commissioner from 2009 to 2014.

He was recognised as an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2012.

Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP noted, “As Chairman of Catholic Schools NSW, Mr Sedgwick aligned the educational mission with the Church’s apostolic mission, ensuring harmony and excellence.”

One of Mr Sedgwick’s greatest honours came in September 2024, when His Holiness Pope Francis bestowed upon him the Knighthood of the Order of St. Gregory the Great in recognition of his extraordinary service to the Church and the Australian community.

The honour underscored a lifetime of tireless effort, marked by both professional ingenuity and active faith.

“Steve managed to contribute as an active member in his local parish, serving as an acolyte whilst leading Catholic Schools NSW as Chair,” remarked Mr McInerney. “He laid the foundation and built Catholic Schools NSW into its current organisation.”

Catholic Schools NSW message noted that Mr. Sedgwick’s funeral details will be released shortly.