The Australian Education Union (AEU) has announced plans for a full-day strike in Canberra following the success of a 24-hour work stoppage on May 22 that shut down schools across the territory. The AEU’s ACT branch confirmed the escalation of industrial action, citing ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions.
May 22 action closes schools
The May 22 strike saw thousands of teachers and support staff walk off the job, causing the closure of all public schools in the ACT. The action was a protest against the government’s failure to address workload issues and offer a fair pay rise. Union officials described the turnout as overwhelming, with picket lines forming outside schools.
Union demands
The AEU is demanding a 20% pay increase over three years, alongside reductions in administrative tasks and class sizes. The union argues that current conditions are unsustainable, leading to teacher burnout and staff shortages. “Our members are exhausted and undervalued,” said AEU ACT branch secretary Patrick Judge. “We need a commitment from the government to address these issues.”
Government response
The ACT Education Minister, Yvette Berry, expressed disappointment at the union’s decision, stating that negotiations were ongoing. “We are committed to finding a resolution that supports both our teachers and students,” Berry said. However, she warned that further strikes would disrupt learning and urged the union to return to the bargaining table.
Impact on students and parents
The May 22 strike left parents scrambling to arrange childcare, with many expressing frustration at the lack of notice. The AEU has pledged to provide advance warning for any future action, but the prospect of a full-day strike has renewed concerns. Parent groups have called for both sides to reach an agreement quickly to avoid further disruption.
Next steps
The AEU will meet with members to finalise details of the full-day strike, which could occur within weeks. The union has not ruled out further escalation if demands are not met. Meanwhile, the government has offered a 12% pay increase over three years, which the union has rejected as insufficient.
This ongoing dispute highlights the broader challenges facing the education sector in Australia, with teacher unions in other states also considering industrial action. The outcome in Canberra could set a precedent for future negotiations nationwide.
