It is disappointing to learn that the AEU is planning industrial action today given the Government has committed to employing 250 more teachers, which will have a massive impact on teacher workload.
That’s on top of the 142 more teachers, around 60 more professional support staff and 193 more teacher assistants we have employed since coming to Government.
This increase is only possible because we have a fair and affordable wages policy which equates to a six per cent pay rise over three years.
The facts are, Tasmanian teachers are well placed in the national market. It is simply not true to say Tasmanian teachers are the lowest paid in Australia.
In fact when compared to a number of other states and territories, Tasmania’s new graduates are paid higher, and the hourly rate for top of base grade teachers and relief teachers is higher.
Our wages policy is fair, affordable, and reasonable, and compares favourably to the policies of several other states, including:
We will continue to engage constructively with the AEU as we continue to deliver on our plan to recruit more teachers and give our students the best possible chances in life.