Peter Duncan's Legacy in Education
Peter Duncan, the former federal secretary of the Australian Education Union (AEU) who fought for public education and teachers' rights, has died at the age of 79. Duncan led the union from 1988 to 1996, a period of significant reform and industrial action.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1947 in Melbourne, Duncan began his career as a primary school teacher in the 1960s. He quickly became involved in union activism, rising through the ranks of the Victorian branch of the Australian Teachers Union before being elected federal secretary in 1988.
Key Achievements
During his tenure, Duncan was instrumental in securing better pay and conditions for teachers. He also advocated for increased funding for public schools and was a vocal critic of private school funding. In 1993, he led a national campaign against the Keating government's education cuts.
According to the AEU, Duncan was a tireless advocate for equity in education. "Peter believed that every child, regardless of background, deserved a quality public education," said AEU federal president Correna Haythorpe. "His leadership laid the groundwork for many of the rights teachers enjoy today."
Impact and Tributes
Duncan's work extended beyond union activities. He served on various government advisory boards and was a strong supporter of multicultural education. After retiring from the union in 1996, he continued to write and speak on education issues.
His death was announced by the AEU on June 22, 2026. Tributes have poured in from educators and politicians. Former prime minister Paul Keating described Duncan as "a principled and effective leader who never wavered in his commitment to public education."
Duncan is survived by his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. A private funeral will be held in Melbourne.
