After months of uncertainty and a suspended negotiation process, the IEU is set to resume bargaining for members in Christian schools in NSW represented by Christian Schools Australia (CSA). The negotiations came to a standstill when CSA presented a paltry pay offer. With the resumption of bargaining in mid-February, there is hope for a fairer outcome.
The pay offer that suspended bargaining
Throughout 2024, the IEU was in bargaining with CSA for two multi-enterprise agreements (MEAs), one for teachers and one for general employees. Whilst an in-principle agreement was reached for general employees, the pay offer for teachers was problematic.
The pay offer for teachers in Christian schools included 11% for 2024 (4% paid in February 2024 and 7% in October 2024) to catch up with the unprecedented pay increases that teachers in all other sectors received in 2023, then 0% in October 2025 followed by a further 3% in 2026.
When the IEU rejected this pay offer on behalf of its members, the CSA made another unsatisfactory offer of 1.5% in Oct 2025 and 1.5% in February 2026. Clearly, this offer fell far short of what we had hoped for, given the rising cost of living and increasing demands on teachers.
The IEU conducted a survey of its members, with an overwhelming 92% of IEU members rejecting CSA’s offer. This resounding rejection sent a clear signal that the teachers were not satisfied. In response to this, the IEU and CSA agreed to temporarily suspend bargaining in August 2024. The decision was made to allow both parties time to assess how other sectors, such as the independent schools sector, were progressing in their bargaining.
Unfortunately, the lack of progress in bargaining for the teachers also meant the MEA for general employees was also on hold.
Locking in the New Parent Bonus
Despite the suspension of bargaining, the IEU was determined to ensure that members reap the benefits of agreed improvements to their working conditions. The IEU was able to bring forward the implementation of improvements to the New Parent Bonus. These improvements were successfully put in place during the pause, providing a small but important victory for teachers and general employees in Christian schools.
Resumption of bargaining
The IEU has locked in a meeting with CSA representatives offering a vital platform to address outstanding issues and work towards a fair and equitable agreement. We are committed to ensuring that any settlement reflects the dedication and professionalism of Christian schools’ employees.
Members are encouraged to stay informed and actively engaged as negotiations progress. Further updates will be provided following the upcoming meeting.
If your colleague is not yet a member of the IEU, please encourage them to join today. Our collective strength in bargaining is directly tied to the strength of our membership.