QTU’s Biennial Conference: Rights, Responsibilities, Respect
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 128 No 3, 5 May 2023, page no. 6
The QTU’s Biennial Conference, our Union’s supreme decision-making body, will take place between 26 – 28 June at Brisbane City Hall.
The conference, which is themed “Our Meeting Place”, will be attended by more than 250 people, including Conference Delegates, Council Representatives, members of QTU Executive, and senior officers. The main purpose of the conference is to determine QTU policy in a range of
areas, including working conditions, women’s issues, First Nations issues, and education funding.
The conference will begin with a Welcome to Country from The Spirit of the Red Sands, followed by an opening address by QTU President Cresta Richardson and the presentation of the 2021-2023 Biennial report by General Secretary Kate Ruttiman.
Following the official opening, QTU Life Membership will be conferred on outstanding QTU activists, and in the afternoon of the first day, campaign awards will be presented and a campaigning panel will take place.
On Day 2, guest speaker Thomas Mayo will present the 2023 Dr Evelyn Scott Memorial Lecture, outlining why unions support a “Yes” vote in the referendum for a Voice to Parliament for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Feminist and author Bri Lee will discuss her books, and Jacqueline King, Acting General Secretary of the Queensland Council of Unions, will outline the work of the peak body, particularly with respect to the new Psychosocial Hazards Regulation and Code of Practice.
A range of exciting fringe events is planned, including a First Nations breakfast and caucus, a Rainbow lunch for LGBTQ+ members, a women’s event, and a conference reception for all delegates, accompanied by live music provided by TAFE alumni.
The Conference will also consider motions from branches and area councils and develop a conference statement. Negotiations for the TAFE EB will be reaching a critical time, and delegates will hear a report on the progress of negotiations. Delegates will also be involved in a campaign activity to support our TAFE members.
The Conference will be attended by conference delegates who have been duly elected to attend, however there is a limited number of spots for observers. If you are interested in attending, contact your local QTU Organiser.