Victorian teachers have suspended rolling half-day strikes that were scheduled to begin this week, following progress in negotiations with the state government over a new pay deal. The Australian Education Union (AEU) announced the two-week suspension, citing positive developments in talks.
AEU Victorian branch president Justin Mullaly stated that the suspension aims to close the percentage gap between Victorian wages and those of public education workers in New South Wales in 2026, with further increases in subsequent years. The union did not disclose the government's offer that led to the suspension.
Despite the strike suspension, other industrial bans remain in place, including refusing to answer Department of Education emails, not providing written comments in student reports, and banning state Labor MPs from visiting schools. Premier Jacinta Allan welcomed the suspension, saying it demonstrates strong negotiations.
Meanwhile, more than a thousand Australian Services Union (ASU) members at eight Melbourne councils will proceed with a 24-hour strike on Tuesday, coinciding with the state budget release. The strike, described as the largest ever for the local government sector, affects councils including Darebin, Greater Dandenong, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melbourne, Merri-bek and Yarra.
The ASU is pushing for a 22 per cent pay rise over four years and improved conditions. The union accuses the state government of underfunding councils and maintaining a rate cap that suppresses wages. Services such as library operations, parking enforcement, garbage collection, and street cleaning will be reduced during the strike.
In a separate dispute, some Health Services Union members, including medical scientists, psychologists, hospital pharmacists and dietitians, have escalated industrial action by refusing unpaid overtime or extra duties not explicitly required in their roles.
