Schools Arbitration Update
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 131 No 3, 22 May 2026, page no.9
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.
Some material has already been filed, including submissions in support of the QTU’s application for an interim wage increase. Further work is underway, including the preparation of evidence and witness statements.
Arbitration is a legal process, and timelines are determined by the QIRC, not the parties. While this can be frustrating, it is an important part of ensuring a fair and independent outcome. The interim wage application is currently expected to be heard in Term 3, with dates set by the QIRC.
We recognise members’ interest in the detail of the case; however, the QTU will only share information that does not compromise the arbitration. Releasing detailed arguments or evidence to members or the media at this stage risks undermining our position before the QIRC.
What the evidence shows
To support its case, the QTU has relied on new independent economic analysis conducted by economists at the University of Sydney Business School.
This analysis confirms what many members are already experiencing in their day-to-day lives:
- The current certified agreement expired on 1 July 2025, and a replacement is not yet in place.
- For most teachers and school leaders, there has been no salary increase since July 2024.
- Rising cost of living pressures have reduced real wages.
- Salaries in comparable jurisdictions, particularly New South Wales, have increased.
- The work of teachers and school leaders continues to grow in complexity.
Taken together, these factors are impacting both members’ financial wellbeing and the ability of the profession to attract and retain staff.
What the analysis recommends
The economic modelling considers both past wage losses and future economic conditions, including inflation and productivity forecasts published by the Reserve Bank of Australia.
It finds that, to restore real wages and bring Queensland salaries back into line with other jurisdictions, increases in the range of 22.9 per cent to 25.2 per cent are required over time.
Importantly, the analysis also concludes that the current State of Queensland Public Sector Wages Policy is insufficient to meet these challenges for the teaching profession.
What the QTU is seeking
Based on this evidence, the QTU is pursuing a wage outcome that reflects both the value of the profession and the current economic environment.
This includes:
- an initial 3 per cent increase
- further increases of 7 per cent per year over a three-year determination.
In addition, the QTU is seeking improvements to allowances, particularly for teachers and school leaders working in regional and remote communities, recognising the additional challenges and incentives required to support these roles.
What happens next?
The QTU will continue to prepare and present its case as part of the arbitration process, including further submissions and evidence.
While the process can be lengthy, it is focused on securing a fair and sustainable outcome for members. The QTU will continue to provide updates through the Journal, Newsflashes, and the QTU website as the matter progresses.