Arabic version: معلمو فيكتوريا يصوّتون على عرض أجور مُعدّل
According to ABC News, Victorian state school teachers and education staff will vote on a revised government pay offer that could avert a planned statewide strike. The ballot opens immediately and runs until August 17, with a result expected before the planned 24-hour strike on Wednesday, August 19.
The proposal retains a previously offered pay rise of 28 to 32 per cent, depending on an educator’s role. It also includes a $2,000 lump-sum payment for union members who sign the agreement, a limit on face-to-face teaching hours and a one-hour reduction in meeting time.
Teachers, learning specialists, assistant principals and education support employees at the top of their pay scale would receive a 1 per cent annual lump-sum payment under the offer. If a majority of Australian Education Union members accept the deal, the strike will be called off.
The AEU’s Victorian council resolved to put the proposal to all members after an extraordinary meeting. Branch president Justin Mullaly described it as a significant offer built upon over time, but said he could not guarantee members would accept it. The union has not said whether it recommends approval.
Education Minister Gabrielle Williams said the government believed the proposal was an excellent offer and wanted to recognise teachers and education support staff. She said active discussions were continuing with the Commonwealth on school funding, while the government sought to minimise disruption for students and families.
