South Australian public school teachers, leaders and support staff will attend rallies across the state on 26 October.
The widespread action is in response to stalling enterprise bargaining negotiations.
The Australian Education Union (AEU) entered negotiations with the state government in May this year to strike a new deal for public school teachers, leaders and support staff which includes improving country conditions to attract and retain staff.
South Australian Branch President, Howard Spreadbury, said that there has been almost no progress with government negotiators in meeting any significant proposals put forward by the union.
“There are a range of factors that contribute to significant challenges that adversely affect country teachers and support staff,” said Mr Spreadbury which he claims has led to difficulties in attracting and retaining quality teachers and leaders in regional areas.
“To undertake the professional development requirements of all staff, country members are required to travel large distances, often requiring overnight accommodation and frequently at their own expense.” Mr Spreadbury continued. “There are significant shortfalls in terms of the availability and numbers of relief teachers and the prevalence of multi-year level classes is increasing significantly.”
Mr Spreadbury said that a number of rallies and events have been organised by AEU members in regional locations for 26 October.
“This is a matter of equity for country students as well as their teachers and support staff.”
“If we can’t attract, retain and support teachers, leaders and support staff in the country, what hope can we have of addressing the educational disadvantage experienced by students in the rural, regional and remote areas?”
