From the President: That was the year that was
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 127 No 8, 2 November 2022, page no. 7
In our more than 130 years of proud union history, we have stood with the profession, and we will continue to stand with you to build a strong, supportive, and respectful dialogue between all stakeholders.
As we know, the past few years have seen pressures on the teaching profession increase tenfold, and there continue to be challenges ahead.
Education has never had “enough” – enough funding, enough time, or enough resourcing. I don’t need to labour the point – as teachers, you live and breathe this on a daily basis.
However, it’s now time for “Enough in Education”, and the Queensland Teachers’ Union is leading the conversation about the need to resource teachers and schools so we can address these unprecedented challenges, not only at a state level but at a national one.
As this is the last Journal in what has been another challenging and formidable year; it’s time to reflect on the year that was. EB10 achieved important outcomes for members, including a pay rise that addresses cost of living pressures. We will also see the creation of a review of teacher and school leader duties, the first of its kind in 30 years.
In recent months, the QTU has been developing a State Budget Submission. This is an extensive document that considers elements that are beyond the scope of enterprise bargaining. Over the next couple of years, the QTU State Budget Submission will be a critical document that will underpin much of our advocacy, direction and asks on behalf of members.
Once Council considers and approve it, the government will be provided with a copy. It will also be used to support regular conversations with other education stakeholders, including non-government Members of Parliament.
The budget and EB certification could be a good catalyst for schools to determine areas of local action in 2023. Your Union Rep team may be expert in achieving or providing support for your colleagues and members at your school in certain areas.
2023 will also bring opportunities for a continued improvement in working conditions in your workplace. One of the key markers for success in schools is the knowledge of our working conditions. This is regardless of your role within the school. There are ways to work together to create positive change. To assist this, the QTU is renewing its focus on the reduction of workload within the frame of the forthcoming review of the allocative methodology.
Curriculum familiarisation under the revised version 9 of the Australian Curriculum for Prep-6 and 7-10 will continue to be a priority, as the QTU ensures ongoing consultation around the implementation schedule.
Our TAFE members are preparing for EB negotiations in 2023. Listening tours, both face-to-face and online, have been occurring across the state. Emerging interests and campaign themes will be presented to TAFE Council in November. Our TAFE Executive and Council will consider the full log of claims in the new year. Together, we look forward to progressing the conditions of our colleagues in TAFE.
The QTU has been integral to the conversation around teaching and learning and ways to improve these, for both our members and the students in our schools and TAFEs. This is evident not only at a state level, but also at a national level through the Australian Education Union.
In 2022, it has been a pleasure visiting schools, branch and area councils, as well as attending Union Rep Conferences. I look forward to more visits and engagement with you as we move forward into 2023.
As we move towards the end of year break, take the time to refresh, renew and re-engage with what is important to you. 2023 will present many opportunities as well as challenges, but one thing is for sure – the QTU will be with you every step of the way.