Sydney: A new national study shows that Catholic priests and deacons in Australia continue to find deep meaning and joy in their ministry, even as they face rising workloads, emotional strain and the effects of a rapidly changing society.
The 164 page report, titled Thriving and Surviving in Ministry, was prepared by the National Centre for Pastoral Research together with the Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office. It surveyed more than a quarter of all diocesan priests and permanent deacons in the country and included detailed interviews with 78 clergy from a wide range of backgrounds.
According to the findings, most clergy expressed a strong sense of hope and satisfaction in their calling. Almost three out of four respondents said they felt confident in their ministry, and a similar number said they frequently felt hopeful about the future. About 61 percent said they often experienced joy in their daily work.
The study also highlighted the diversity of Australia’s clergy. At the end of 2023, the country had around 1,810 diocesan priests, 1,003 religious priests and 204 permanent deacons. Fifty three percent were born in Australia, while 41 percent came from countries where English is not the main language.
At the same time, many clergy reported experiencing significant pressures. Priests said they work an average of 8.6 hours a day, with younger priests under 40 working more than 10 hours daily.
Many spoke of loneliness, exhaustion and rising administrative demands. The impact of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse remains a major emotional burden, with some fearing unjust accusations and others struggling with the increased safeguarding workload.
The report noted that declining priest numbers also contribute to heavier responsibilities. The total number of priests in Australia has fallen from more than 3,100 in 2003 to around 2,800 in 2024, even as the number of permanent deacons has continued to grow.
Clergy also described challenges in their relationships within the Church.
While most said they had strong ties with their parish communities, only about 60 percent described their relationship with their bishop as good.
Many asked for more personal support, better ongoing formation, mentoring and help with administrative duties.
Despite these obstacles, 95 percent of respondents said they value their ministry and feel that their work matters. For many, the sense of purpose and close connection with people outweighed the difficulties.
Archbishop Christopher Prowse of Canberra and Goulburn welcomed the findings and said the report should encourage dioceses to further strengthen pastoral support for clergy.
He described the study as an opportunity for the Church to reflect on how to better care for its priests and deacons so they can serve with renewed energy and joy.
The full report is expected to guide future policies on clergy well-being, formation and retirement planning as the Church continues to adapt to changing social and pastoral realities.