Across the state, 2026 Labour Day celebrations saw a large turn-out of QTU members, all embodying our theme: “Shoulder to Shoulder - Stronger Together”.
The QTU was honoured with several awards at the Queensland Council of Unions (QCU) Labour Day Dinner on 24 April, reflecting the strength, commitment, and impact of our Union.
International Workers’ Memorial Day, held every year on 28 April, is a moment for us all to pause and honour the workers who never came home.
After travelling the country, the Australian Education Union’s national inquiry into Australia’s state school infrastructure needs — Schools for Our Future — arrived in Queensland.
As President of the QTU, there are few days I see that really capture the essence of what we do and stand for like Labour Day. This was the Labour Day I needed, and genuinely I felt many of you shared the same feeling.
The Queensland Government has commenced reviews of two cornerstone pieces of workplace legislation: the Industrial Relations Act 2016 (the IR Act) and the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act (the WCR Act).
The Schools Arbitration is continuing before the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC). At the time of writing, the QTU is progressing both its interim wage application and preparing submissions for the substantive case.
For the QTU, Labour Day is something that stretches right out across this beautiful state. Events big and small embrace far-flung places, regional towns, and the centre of Brisbane.
Across Queensland schools, safe and functional facilities are fundamental to quality teaching and learning. When these conditions are compromised, the impact on staff and students is immediate and significant.
Occupational violence and aggression (OVA) is not a philosophical problem, a mindset issue, or something educators “manifest” by acknowledging. It is a documented, growing, statewide crisis. And the number of incidents coming out of Queensland schools make that reality impossible to ignore.
On International Workers’ Memorial Day (28 April), Queensland unions came together to launch the Hands Off Our Safety campaign — a united response to government proposals that could reshape workplace health and safety and workers’ compensation across the state.
Over the past two months, the QTU has been preparing the draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 to 2028.
In record numbers, members of the Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) have been active in campaigns for a better future for their profession and public education, whether via MP delegations, high vis activities, or parent and online engagement.
Every Monday, QTU members across the state wear maroon in a powerful show of solidarity. Maroon Monday is more than a colour theme — it is a statewide symbol of our unity, pride, and resolve. Each maroon shirt is a reminder that we are strongest when we stand together, and that our collective voice carries further than any one of us alone.
The Pacific Pines State High School health and safety representative (HSR) team won the Most Active and Effective Workplace Committee title at this year's Labour Day Awards — a testament to its leadership, collaboration, and commitment to a safer workplace.
On 4 March, the Australian Parliament’s Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs announced an inquiry into racism, hate and violence directed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The National TAFE Council AGM held in Melbourne on 17 and 18 April provided a clear and confronting national picture of the conditions facing public vocational education.
History is important. It should not be forgotten that many of the conditions that we often now take for granted were fought for and won by QTU members. Through the commitment of women educators who led with courage and conviction, our history is littered with injustices overturned and wins that have ultimately benefited members of all genders.
The second part of our summary of proceedings at the 42nd Australian Education Union Conference in Melbourne.
From 20 September 2025, new criminal offences commenced in Queensland that make it illegal for certain adults, including teachers, deputy principals, principals, and potentially other school staff as well, to engage in sexual acts or sexual relationships with young people aged 16 or 17 who are under their care, supervision or authority.
I am a temporary teacher. How do I convert to permanency? | 2027 student free days
As the older section of the education community, retired teachers now have some time to reflect on the past, present, and future.
Teachers and school leaders know the struggle of making it through a long workday with energy to spare. Between early mornings, packed schedules, and limited breaks, eating well can feel like an afterthought.
