Major step forward for preschools

IEU members Melinda Gambley, Margaret Gleeson, Janene Rox, Jodie Cox, Bridget Isichei, Raelee Smith, and IEU organiser Kate Damo at the Fair Work Commission for negotiations for preschool staff in Sydney on 25 October.

The IEU’s Unite for Change log of claims for teachers in 103 community-based preschools was put before the Fair Work Commission on 25 October.

It was a momentous day, the first ever supported bargaining proceedings for preschools.

The IEU and its members in community-based preschools across NSW are seeking transformative change for the sector so that teachers and educators are professionally recognised.

The Unite for Change log of claims provides for the following:

  • Equity and parity with school settings. A commitment that education is a continuum from preschool to the conclusion of a child’s education – funding, pay and conditions must reflect this.
  • Pay: substantial wage rises to secure parity with teachers in school settings.
  • Conditions and rights at work: substantial improvements to better support preschool teachers and provide equity with school settings; highlights include improvements to non-contact time, professional development, parental leave, personal leave and delegates’ rights.

The IEU is calling on the NSW government, which funds the community preschool sector, to fully fund the pay rises.

Preschools not part of the current bargaining can vote to join the agreement in the future.

If you need more information on the Unite for Change campaign, we invite you to contact your IEU organiser or call the union on 8202 8900 and ask for the Duty Officer.