Since 1949, the Order of the Knights of the Southern Cross in Western Australia has played a critical role in campaigning for the introduction of State Aid. During these early years, the Order made representation to the Government of Western Australia in support of assistance to Catholic schools. However, the Assisted Schools Abolition Act (1895) made such aid illegal.

At the Order’s annual State Conference in 1952, it was resolved to advocate an amendment to the Act in order to pave the way for financial assistance. Furthermore, the Conference authorised the formation of the Catholic Education Committee to further explore this approach. 

Through the Catholic Education Committee, the Order persuaded the individual Parish Schools Parents’ Associations to form one overarching group that would speak for all its members in its negotiations with governments and politicians. The Parents and Friends’ Federation of Western Australia was founded on 18 March 1954 with the affiliation of thirteen independent associations. By the end of the year, the number of affiliates would grow to twenty eight.

The Federation was initiated by the Knights of the Southern Cross as a vehicle by which the Government could be lobbied to provide assistance to Catholic schools. While the campaign for State Aid would remain a major focus for the new organisation, the Federation would continue to be an important voice for parents in the Catholic education system.