Our thanks go to the hundreds of members who took the time and trouble to complete the IEU’s publications survey late last year.
The results were positive with 62% of respondents saying they get most of the information about the union’s activities through its publications (second only to emails at 78%).
One of the most pleasing results of the survey was the finding that 46% would recommend the IEU to a colleague or other potential member after reading an IEU publication.
Respondents were most interested in industrial news in publications, with 41% of respondents saying they read every issue of the IEU’s newspaper Newsmonth, which is published eight times a year. The average amount of time spent reading Newsmonth is half an hour.
About 30% of respondents said Newsmonth provides useful professional and industrial advice, with 26% saying it informs on topics which are interesting.
Most (47%) still prefer to read the publications in print format, although many requested online only to save costs, especially environmental. The union offers the opportunity to opt out of receiving print publications, just email membership@ieu.asn.au
Many of you also requested that the IEU use something other than plastic covers for mailing publications. The publications team has investigated all options, and now uses a biodegradable plastic cover. Paper envelopes are not practical nor cost effective.
There was a request for more coverage of support staff issues. This is something our publications team is mindful of, and we always welcome correspondence and story ideas from support staff members: email ieu@ieu.asn.au
Some respondents perceived a ‘left wing bias’ in publications which was not reflective of their own views.
IEUA NSW/ACT Branch Secretary Mark Northam said the union would continue to fight for social justice, equity and action on climate change, saying these issues affected the welfare of all workers.
All members receive IEU publications in their letterbox, unless they have informed the membership team they wish to receive online publications only.
The IEU publishes Newsmonth eight times a year, it covers issues aimed at all members. The first and last editions for the year are digital only, the other six editions are in print and digital formats.
The professional journal IE, which carries professional articles for all members, is printed three times a year. Bedrock, the magazine for early childhood teachers, is mailed to early childhood members three times a year. Bedrock was not included in this survey.
The IEU also produces a number of enews publications aimed at specific sectors of the membership, eg principals, early childhood teachers, ELICOS staff and support staff.
All IEU publications are available to read online on the IEU website www.ieu.asn.au in several formats, and links to the online version of each publication are emailed to members.