All news
Major parts of Closing Loopholes Bill passed by Parliament
Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) Secretary Sally McManus said the union movement welcomed the passing of major parts of the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill 2023, which comes as an early Christmas present for working people.
Ensuring viable career pathways for First Nations education workers
Our union’s campaign to Close the Industrial Gap continues through our advocacy.
No Excuse – Invest to prevent violence against women and girls
25 November is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which also marks the beginning of 16 days of action against gender-based violence.
Urgent support for workers blocked in Parliament
The passing of new legislation that would get wages moving and help restore the rights of working people is being blocked in Parliament following a shameful campaign by big business.
Queensland Catholic teachers allowed back pay despite resignation
A full bench of Federal Court judges has ruled two Queensland Catholic school teachers are entitled to pay rises secured by new collective agreements despite the employees resigning before the replacement agreements took effect.
Student teachers should be paid for practicum placements
With half of all student teachers failing to finish their teaching degree, a major rethink is needed on how the next generation of teachers can be better supported to complete their studies and stay in the teaching profession.
WorkCover wins for psychological injuries
Our union’s expert advice and support has helped two members secure successful WorkCover claims for work-related psychological injuries. IEU-QNT Industrial Officer Nick Sahlqvist said the recent cases reinforced the importance of contacting our union as early as...
Shocking rise in sexual harassment at universities
Sexual harassment in higher education workplaces has risen more than 52%, according to a new National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) survey.
Permanency secured after 12 years of fixed-term contracts
Our union has helped a school officer secure continuing employment status after experiencing 12 years of rolling fixed-term contracts.
Increase in parental leave welcomed
In a significant step towards promoting family well-being and gender equality in the workforce, the Australian government has introduced legislation to extend paid parental leave to 26 weeks by 2026.
$80,000 backpay secured for member
An IEU member has recently received over $80,000 in backpay after receiving support from our union.
Teachers wanted for academic research project
Dr Glenys Mann from Queensland University of Technology’s (QUT) School of Early Childhood and Inclusive Education is seeking expressions of interest from teachers in the non-government education sector to participate in her upcoming research project.
Dos and don’ts of EOY functions
Avoid an uncomfortable situation with your employer upon returning to work.
Natural disaster leave – a necessary provision during an era of climate change
As we begin what will likely be a very hot summer season, IEU members should check whether they have access to natural disaster leave provisions in their collective agreement to be prepared for extreme weather events.
Middle Leader Professional Standards trial underway
The next stage of development is underway for the Middle Leader Professional Standards, with trials having commenced in Queensland schools during Term 4.
Fight for justice and change continues
Union members fight for change every day in their workplaces, industries, professions and communities.
AI implications for assessment practices
In many respects, the implications of AI on assessment practices have been more thoroughly considered than other, broader issues.
AI Framework endorsed but teachers remain waiting
Australia’s first Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Schools has been officially endorsed by Education Ministers, but the profession remains waiting to see a final copy.
Review of IEU Mentoring Program shows positive results
The findings from a review of the IEU Mentoring Program show that participating members have overwhelmingly found the program beneficial, with some providing suggestions for practical changes to improve future programs.
Increased resourcing necessary for Trade to Teach Internship Program
As the first cohort of Trade to Teach Internship Program participants near the end of their first year of university study, our union reiterates that alternative pathways to the teaching profession must be appropriately resourced and funded to successfully attract and retain quality teachers.
Transitioning from provisional to full registration: policy review
Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) has completed a review of their Transitioning from provisional to full registration policy following feedback from stakeholders, including our union. IEU-QNT Research Officer Dr Adele Schmidt said QCT completed consultation with...
IEU responds to AITSL’s draft induction guidelines
AITSL released draft guidelines for induction of early career teachers and new school leaders.
25 Year Members honoured
The IEU-QNT 25-year membership program recognises and celebrates long-standing members.
Catholic employers fail to listen
Queensland Catholic school employers have shamefully failed to hear members’ concerns and are essentially putting the same document that IEU members first rejected in October to a second ballot.
IEU members celebrated with Teach X Awards
As World Teachers’ Day 2023 approaches, our union is celebrating the achievements of IEU-QNT members who have been honoured with Teach X Awards.
Non-compete clauses increasingly prevalent
Our union has seen an increase in the frequency of non-compete clauses in employment contracts.
1.1 million reasons to be part of the IEU
Over $1.1 million in compensation, underpayments and allowances have been returned to members in the past year.
Unions win historic first for early childhood sector
Thousands of Australian early childhood teachers employed by long day care centres and other service providers are set for better wages and working conditions after a joint union application to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) was approved.
Worker fatalities in Australia remain shamefully high
The rate of workplace deaths in Australia remains shamefully high, with the latest statistics by Safe Work Australia reporting 195 workplace fatalities occurred in 2022.
Closing Loopholes Bill blocked
The ACTU have called for roadblocks in the way of the Bill advancing in Parliament to be removed.
Ballot outcomes and next action for Queensland Catholic school members
Teachers and support staff in nearly 300 Queensland Catholic schools across the state have voted no to an employer attempt to cut current working conditions.
Walk for YES this weekend
Gather your family, friends, neighbours and colleagues, and join together to Walk for YES.
Queensland Catholic school staff voting no to attack on rights at work
Teachers and support staff in Queensland Catholic schools across the state are set to vote no to cuts to current working conditions as an employer document goes to ballot tomorrow.
Queensland students wow judges at art awards
Artistically talented students have impressed the judges at last night’s IEU-QNT Excellence in Art Design Awards.
Employers seek biggest cuts to Catholic school staff working conditions in 20 years
Queensland Catholic school employers seek ballot on a document that cuts many long-held working conditions.
Member action secures paid PD time
IEU members at a Queensland Catholic school have been allocated paid time to complete compulsory professional development.
IEU support secures long service leave payment
Our union’s advocacy has led to a member being paid out their long service leave (LSL) entitlement upon termination
Skyrocketing profits prompt price gouge claims
Big businesses are enjoying record profits while ordinary Australians struggle to cope with crippling cost-of-living pressures.
Chef exposes equal pay shame
A Melbourne chef proved she was paid $15,000 less than male chefs but her former employer won’t be held to account.
Judges wowed by Queensland students’ literary prowess
Queensland school students with a flair for writing were celebrated last night (23 August) as part of the IEU-QN) annual Literary Competition.
4000 teachers and school support staff strike to tell employers to hear our voice
Over 4000 IEU-QNT members across 106 Queensland Catholic schools took strike action today (Wednesday, 23 August) for one (1) hour between 10am until 11am.
Queensland Catholic school staff strike tomorrow
Over 4000 Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) members across 106 Queensland Catholic schools are taking strike action tomorrow (Wednesday, 23 August) for one (1) hour between 10am until 11am.
IEU gives feedback to federal government’s AI taskforce
Our federal union is continuing to ensure members’ voices are heard regarding the contentious issue of using AI in schools.
4000 Queensland Catholic school teachers and support staff to strike in over 100 schools next week
Over 4000 teachers and support staff in 106 Queensland Catholic schools will strike from 10am until 11am next Wednesday, 23 August 2023.
Have your say on Australian Curriculum Languages
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) is leading a review of the P–10 Australian Curriculum Languages to ensure the needs of students are met now and in the future.
No new school initiatives without workload impact test
With unsustainable workloads and work intensification driving teachers out of the profession, workload impact tests must form part of any new school initiatives.
Thousands of Catholic school staff to stop work tomorrow
Thousands of employees across 34 Queensland Catholic schools will take protected industrial action tomorrow, Tuesday 15 August 2023.
Toowoomba school staff to stop work tomorrow, 15 August 2023
Hundreds of employees across 13 Toowoomba Catholic schools will take protected industrial action tomorrow, Tuesday 15 August 2023.
Queensland Catholic school teachers to lose a day’s pay over 5-minute strike
In an Australian first, thousands of Queensland Catholic school employees in over 100 schools are set to lose a full day’s pay for taking a five-minute work stoppage and a range of limited work bans on Tuesday, 15 August 2023.
QLD Catholic employers warned over 5-minute strike wage loss
Queensland Catholic employers have been warned against major wage deduction of employees’ pay over a five-minute work stoppage next week.
Union members win 18% pay rise for uni staff
National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) members have secured a sector-leading 18% pay rise for staff at the University of New South Wales (UNSW).
National induction guidelines for new teachers and leaders
Draft guidelines for the induction of new teachers and school leaders released.
IEU advice helps member transition to retirement
Our union’s support has helped a member transition to retirement after their employer gave them incorrect advice. The member was interested in a reduction from five to three working days per week as part of a transition to retirement, as they are entitled to under...
IEU heard on Queensland VET strategy development
Our union has ensured members’ voices have been heard as part of the Queensland Government’s new VET strategy.
Flying Doctors leave Queensland nurses behind
Nurses employed by the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (RFDS) in Queensland are fighting for better pay rates, with most currently receiving more than 25% less than colleagues in public and private hospitals.
Transitioning to retirement
Retirement from the workforce marks an exciting and significant milestone in a worker’s lifetime, and our union is here to support members through the process.
“Insulting” pay offer to NSW teachers slammed
2.5% wage offer slammed by public sector and non-govt sector unions
Applications for the $5000 TUH Future of Teaching Bursary are open
The TUH Bursary was designed with a clear purpose: to empower and support educators.
Exclusive teacher exchange opportunities to Alberta, Canada on offer
IEU members employed in Brisbane, Cairns and Toowoomba Catholic schools or Queensland Anglican schools are eligible to participate in a fortnight-long exchange to Alberta, Canada.
Initial Teacher Education report misses the mark
Recommendations miss the mark on addressing problems with Initial Teacher Education.
NSRA review an opportunity for profession
Renewal of National School Reform Agreement must consider resourcing excessive workloads.
Traffic lights signal ‘Stop-Go’ on AI
Our union and the Queensland Teachers’ Union have jointly published materials to assist members in using artificial intelligence.
Chapter solidarity secures equal pay increases for all staff
IEU Chapters have seen off an employer plan to only pay wage increases to some staff.
Death of delivery rider reflective of industry in need of reform
The tragic death of a food delivery rider is a stark reminder of the need to improve safety.
Early childhood education members to have say through NQF review
IEU members employed in early childhood education centres are encouraged to have their say as part of the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority’s (ACECQA) review of staffing and qualification regulations under the National Quality Framework (NQF)....
What to do with a 4-cent cheque?
Cheque payments of 4 cents for royalty rights abound and coupled with the threat of jobs losses to the use of artificial intelligence (AI), members of the Screen Actors Guild have moved to strike action.
Systemic underpayment rife in universities
An $8 million underpayment of University of Wollongong (UOW) staff reflects a systemic culture of wage theft in the sector.
IEU support wins permanent jobs
The intervention of our union has led to several IEU members being converted from fixed-term to continuing employment status.
Islamic College Brisbane wins paid pandemic leave
IEU members employed at the Islamic College of Brisbane have secured 20 days of paid pandemic leave in their new collective agreement.
IEU joins coalition supporting the Voice
Our union has joined a coalition of 70 organisations supporting a Voice to Parliament for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Traffic lights signal ‘Stop-Go’ on AI
Our union and the Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) have jointly developed an innovative traffic light rating system and set of resources to guide teachers’ use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education.
Lodging your tax return made easy
Teaching and educational support staff incur many expenses which can be claimed as a deduction, but these can be tricky to navigate.
Unions welcome new Bill for fairer workplaces
This week, the federal government passed the Fair Work Amendment (Protecting worker entitlements) Bill 2023 in parliament.
Protected Action Ballot Orders approved in Catholic schools
A series of union applications for Protected Action Ballot Orders (PABO) filed with the Fair Work Commission (FWC) have now been issued by the Fair Work Commission.
Employers say take it or leave it as they fail to tackle teacher burnout
Queensland Catholic school employers have given employees a ‘take it or leave it’ position regarding the current negotiations for a replacement collective agreement.
Corporate profits driving inflation
The OECD has found corporate profits have contributed far more to Australia’s drive in inflation than wage growth.
IEU support makes the difference in return to work
Our union’s advocacy has led to an employer quickly withdrawing their direction for an IEU member to undergo an independent medical examination (IME) as part of their return to work.
Historic increase to minimum wage celebrated
Australian union members have welcomed the Fair Work Commission’s (FWC) decision to support vulnerable workers by granting a record increase to the minimum wage.
Crackdown on exploitation of migrant workers
New laws announced by the federal government will make it a criminal offence to exploit migrant workers.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education: new resources for members
Our union and the Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) have published a set of documents to advise members on using artificial intelligence (AI) in schools.
IEU front and centre of early years strategy development
Our union continues to ensure members’ voices are heard in developing the Commonwealth ECE Strategy.
New Middle Leader professional standard must recognise all roles
Our union is advocating for a focus on all Middle Leader (ML) roles, and not just curriculum leaders, as part of developing a new ML professional standard.
IEU heard on Non-State Schools Accreditation Framework review
Our union has provided a submission to the current independent review of the Queensland Non-State Schools Accreditation Framework.
Queensland Catholic employers attack critical employee protection
Queensland Catholic school employers are using the current collective bargaining negotiations to directly attack a critical employee working right held for close to 30 years.
Quality mentoring makes a difference
Quality mentoring has proven to be highly beneficial to early career teachers, reducing rates of stress and burnout.
NAIDOC Week 2023: For our Elders
NAIDOC Week 2023 will be held between Sunday, 2 July and Sunday, 9 July.
New payday rule to crack down on billions in unpaid super
The Federal Government has announced that employers will pay superannuation on the same day as wages, a move welcomed by our union.
National Reconciliation Week 2023: Be a Voice for Generations
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is occurs every year between 27 May and 3 June, dates which mark historically significant milestones for First Nations People and Australia’s reconciliation journey: the 1967 referendum and the historic Mabo decision.
Federal budget begins long-term repair of broken education system
The 2023-2024 federal budget announced overnight is a positive start to beginning the long-term repair of a broken education system in Australia after a decade of neglect by the previous coalition government.
Members’ voices heard on NT Education Legislation Amendment Bill
Our union has been participating in ongoing consultation regarding a rewrite of the Northern Territory (NT) government’s Education Legislation.
McDonald’s franchisee fined $275,000 for union busting
A McDonald’s franchisee in Murray Bridge, South Australia, has paid a fine of $275,000 after admitting to unlawfully discouraging staff from joining their union over a five-year period.
IEU unites against discrimination for IDAHOBIT
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) will be held on 17 May 2023.
IEU to advise federal government on school funding reforms
The federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare, has announced the members of the National School Reform Agreement (NSRA) Ministerial Reference Group which will include the IEU.
QuEST online provides new PD opportunities for members
IEU-QNT members now have access to a suite of new professional development (PD) opportunities through the QuEST platform, expanding the range of member-exclusive benefits.
Pandemic leave win in Mackay
Members at Mackay Christian College are the first single-site school in the region to secure a paid pandemic leave entitlement in their new collective agreement.
Every worker deserves to make it home
On 28 April every year, we remember those who have been killed or injured at work.
Unions to support YES campaign on Labour Day/May Day
Labour Day/May Day celebrations to include focus on a successful Voice to Parliament referendum.
45% of gig workers earn less than minimum wage
Almost half Australia’s transport gig economy workers earn less than minimum wage despite working long hours in unsafe conditions.
New laws to ensure psychological health and safety
The responsibility for schools to provide a psychologically safe workplace for employees may expand following the publication of Safe Work Australia’s new model code of practice Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work, as Rachel Drew and Aiyana O’Meara from Holding Redlich write.
Initial teacher education review must prioritise welfare of next generation of teachers
The federal Independent Education Union of Australia (IEUA) welcomes the opportunity to share the classroom insights and experiences of our 75,000 members as part of the Teacher Education Expert Panel consultation process following release of the Panel’s Discussion Paper.