March 2011

IWD 8 March

Tuesday 8 March marks the centenary of the first International Women’s Day in 1911 and it is a time to reflect on the achievements of women and girls around the world.

There are many resources available from the Office for Women including a pictorial history of women’s contribution to Queensland 1859 – 2009. There is also a Tribute Gallery where you can upload a story about a woman who has made a difference in your life.

The QTU has developed a poster which can be downloaded that lists the key achievements for women -  download poster.

UN Women Australia (formerly UNIFEM Australia) has also developed a downloadable kit.

PPL scheme protected

The paid parental leave scheme came under threat recently with the introduction of an amendment bill designed to break the bond between the employer and the employee. Fortunately, the bill was voted down by a single vote, meaning that, from 1 July 2011, payments will be made directly to eligible mothers by the government as originally intended, rather than by Centrelink.

For more information about the entitlement, please read the  information brochure on the QTU website or visit www.familyassist.gov.au

Global Action Week (2nd - 8th May)

In keeping with the centenary of women’s achievements, the theme of this year's Global Action Week is Women's and Girl's Education. Last year, there were only a small handful of public schools in Australia which participated in Global Action Week. It would be wonderful if we could aim to have at least 50 schools from every state/territory involved in GAW for 2011.

If your school is having an event for International Women's Day, you might wish to distribute information about Global Action Week, particularly as the focus of GAC is Women's and Girls' Education.

If you require more information on Global Action Week 2011, please see  http://www.globalactionweek.org/ and http://www.campaignforeducation.org/ 

Rosemary Richards Scholarship 2011

The AEU will be seeking expressions of interest for the Rosemary Richards Scholarship, which honours the work of ACT feminist, unionist and educator Rosemary Richards, who passed away in November 2006.

The scholarship provides up to $10,000 for specific work, research or projects on issues relating to the advancement of women and girls.

The scholarship is open to all female AEU members. For more information, please see the autumn edition of The Australian Educator. Details will be posted on the AEU website on 4 March.

Women’s e-News can also be viewed on www.qtu.asn.au under “member groups – women”.

Kind Regards,

Leah Mertens
QTU Women’s Coordinator  

Authorised by John Battams, General Secretary, Queensland Teachers' Union,
21 Graham St,  Milton,Q.4064