Resounding support for new Agreement in Tasmanian Catholic education
Congratulations to all IEU members in Tasmanian Catholic schools, who just had their new Agreement overwhelmingly endorsed by 96.6% of voting employees!
In an email to members, General Secretary David Brear said, “We’d like to acknowledge the contributions of all Reps and active IEU members who went above and beyond to win this Agreement and to build the momentum we needed to achieve this strong endorsement in the employee ballot – this win belongs to you!”
The proposed Agreement now goes before the Fair Work Commission for final endorsement, after which it becomes legally binding in all Tasmanian Catholic schools.
“The work doesn’t stop here,” Brear said. “Our efforts now turn to ensuring fair, effective and consultative implementation of the provisions of the new Agreement across all our schools.”
This victory follows a tough, drawn-out campaign. The Two Years Too Long campaign had already outlived its name by the time the final draft was reached late last year! Despite this, IEU members stood firm, successfully resisting last-minute employer proposals like forced staff relocation.
When negotiations stalled, members took decisive action—applying for a protected action ballot order (PABO) at the Fair Work Commission and initiating minor work bans. The effort paid off; the looming threat of further industrial action was key to securing an agreement.
Key Wins in the Tasmanian Catholic Agreement
✔️ LOW-INCOME PAYMENTS – A $1,000 payment (pro-rata for part-time employees) will be made in March 2025 to most school support staff and teachers at or below Level 4.
✔️ PAY PARITY – Salary alignment with government schools maintained, plus a 3% increase in 2025.
✔️ TEACHER WORKLOAD REDUCTIONS:
Primary teachers – Maximum face-to-face teaching hours reduced from 22 to 21 per week over the life of the Agreement.
Secondary teachers – Non-teaching, face-to-face duties reduced from 5 to 4 hours per week, starting Semester 2, 2025.
✔️ IMPROVED PARENTAL LEAVE:
Paid primary carer leave increased to 18 weeks
Paid partner leave increased to 4 weeks
Superannuation payments now made on the first year of maternity leave
10 days’ paid foster carer leave
This Agreement reflects the strength and determination of IEU members, ensuring fair pay, better conditions, and reduced workloads. It is a hard-fought win that benefits staff, students, and the entire school community!