EB9 – working toward the next agreement
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 123 No 5, 27 July 2018, p4
During 2017 and 2018, the QTU has been developing a range of materials to support the implementation of the current certified agreement. With the last salary increase under the agreement having been processed, it is now time for us to start getting ready for the next round of enterprise bargaining.
While negotiations will not commence until early next year and we are yet to finalise the pilot for highly accomplished and lead teachers and the current trial of varied remote area incentives, if we are to be ready to bargain we need to have a claim finalised by the end of the year.
With the roll out of HAT and LT and the securing of $101,000 pa as the salary for experienced senior teachers, it is clear that the next agreement will need to focus on ensuring that the government delivers on the outcomes of the Promotional Positions Classification Review (PPCR). However, while this will be the priority, we must also secure changes to working conditions to continue to address issues of workload.
The QTU will be asking members to participate in a survey during term three this year in relation to workload, while also asking schools to hold workplace meetings to consider key elements of the next claim. Some suggestions include an increase of collaborative planning time accessible to teachers, an enhancement of the non-contact time and consultation provisions, and a commitment to a full workload review with resourcing provided to support any recommendations on how workload might be reduced. We also need to look at matters that continue to be of issue, such as access to flexible work, the gender pay and superannuation gaps and teacher mobility, including transfers and relocation. It will also be important that a continued commitment to permanent engagement over temporary employment features.
What we do to address these key issues will be a fundamental element of discussion as Union Reps hold workplace meetings to discuss EB claim development.
Further details on key EB issues and workplace meetings will be provided to Union Reps early in term three.