THE State Government tried to convince Tony Abbott that his national chaplaincy program for schools should also be open to welfare officers.

But Queensland’s request to open up the scheme beyond religious ministers was shot down, and the Abbott Government said unless it agreed to the terms of the National School Chaplaincy Programme, the state would miss out on $70 million.

The controversial program offering students “support and guidance about ethics, values, relationships and spirituality” was overhauled this year after the High Court ruled the Commonwealth had no executive power to administer or directly fund the scheme.

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Under the new model released just months ago, schools are invited to apply for funding for a school chaplain of any faith, although they are not allowed to proselytise.

Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek wrote to Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education Scott Ryan in September, urging him to make the program more diverse.

But Mr Langbroek’s idea was dismissed within a week, prompting Premier Campbell Newman to last week advise the Federal Government that he was disappointed but would not turn down the cash.

“While it is disappointing ... I am seeking your approval to confirm Queensland’s acceptance of the Commonwealth offer of $17.47 million per annum over four years ... to fund chaplains in state and non-state schools, plus an additional $0.53 million to cover administration costs,’’ he wrote.

media_camera Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek pushed for the school chaplaincy program to be more diverse.

Senator Ryan said the program would be rolled out across the country next year after reaching an agreement with states and territories.

“As outlined in the Australian Government’s original invitation to participate in the NSCP, all states and territories will have to adhere to funding conditions specified by the Commonwealth,’’ Senator Ryan said.

It comes as a national review into the school curriculum released this week recommended a greater emphasis on the nation’s Judaeo-Christian heritage and more emphasis on morals, values and spirituality.

The chaplaincy program was originally introduced by former prime minister John Howard in 2007.

Initially it gave schools the ability to receive $20,000 towards employing a school chaplain.