Ensure your voice is heard, join our online consultation session on Monday 20 February at 5:30pm.
The bigger and stronger our subbranches are – the more positive change we can create for our members, and the children and students we work with.
Your sub-branch AGM must be held prior to Saturday 18 February 2023 in order to appoint your local union leadership. Once you’ve completed your AEU elections, please let our head office know the results.
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Are you seeking opportunities to maintain or increase your level of fitness? Want to learn more about your city and surrounding hills and bush land?
Our walks are organised at several levels:
Rovers: 14-16 kms | Walkers: 8-10 kms | Ramblers: 6-7 kms
The Retired Teachers Walking Group Inc. is affiliated with Walking SA - the peak walking body in SA. We walk in conservation parks, national parks, forestry reserves within the Adelaide Hills & Mount Lofty Ranges, Fleurieu Peninsula, suburban beaches and along the six creeks of the
Adelaide Plains, the River Torrens Linear Park and other suburban, historic and country trails. It’s a great way to get to know your city and surroundings - as well as maintaining fitness! A camp is also organised each year in country areas within South Australia and Victoria.
Co-ordinator: Carol Fallon: 0417 001 766 | dave.fallon@bigpond.com
Secretary: Kym Wenham: 0412 408 568 | wenhams@adam.com.au
Walking SA Rep: John Eaton: 8431 5460 | joneaton@bigpond.net.au
As public educators embark on another big year, there’s never been a more important time to be a member of the AEU. As a union, we’re stepping up the way we communicate, advocate, and support you at work, as well as pioneering some of the most significant reforms in public education this decade.
The pandemic exposed a system under immense pressure, and our academic research has revealed a public education workforce at breaking point. While the Department may acknowledge these problems exist, the AEU and our members feel them deeply. As the largest professional network of public educators, our job is to represent you, the people who are impacted by these realities. And that’s not a responsibility we take lightly.
It’s the reason we’re guided by members in everything we do, and this year will be no different. Enterprise bargaining is happening now, and members can expect frequent updates and regular communications about our progress at the negotiating table. The AEU will undertake a second round of regional and metropolitan forums to discuss our platform and the ways you can build our collective strength to help us bargain for a better future. As the people who power our education system, it is essential your voices are heard. The stories you share are our best case for change, and I encourage each of you to talk with colleagues, sign up to our campaign, and get involved.
Another major focus this year will be the imminent referendum to enshrine an Aboriginal voice to Australia’s Parliament. We know that there will be opposition to Voice and we stand in solidarity with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander brothers and sisters, knowing that times of vital change such as these often give rise to increased racism. As public educators and unionists we must support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, including
As the largest professional network of public educators, our job is to represent you, the people who are impacted by these realities.Teacher Shortage Crisis, Public Education Forums, conducted mid-last year with educators.
+ Through Enterprise Bargaining, the AEU is pioneering some of the most significant reforms in public education this decade
+ The AEU supports Voice Treaty Truth. We will be uniting with other states and unions to support a Yes vote to Voice
+ The AEU, on behalf of your fellow educators, stands with Riverland communities during this difficult time
the children in our classrooms, in the lead up to the referendum. The AEU supports Voice Treaty Truth. We will be uniting with other states and unions to support a Yes vote to Voice. I hope you will join us in doing so. Finally, I want to acknowledge our Riverland communities who are starting 2023 with much devastation. The AEU, on behalf of your fellow educators, stands with you during this difficult time. Members who’ve experienced loss or damage should discuss their circumstances with the AEU to establish if and what support might be provided.
We are starting this year strong, and as educators and union members, we know strength comes from togetherness. This year, like those before it, will involve challenges and adversity. There will be times the AEU will call on you to take action as part of a united and diverse community of educators employed in the preschool, primary, secondary and TAFE sectors in South Australia. I trust you will take these opportunities to stand with us and effect real change for a better future.
Wishing you all the best for a year of professional and personal successes.
ANDREW GOHL PRESIDENT, AEU SAVisit
+ The AEU has a new look and feel in 2023
+ We’re evolving our approach to campaigning, bargaining, and supporting you
+ We’re calling on you to take action this year and make meaningful change
On behalf of the AEU, I want to welcome you back for another big year in public education.
In the coming months, you’ll notice some changes to the look and feel of your union, and this special edition of the AEU Journal looks upon our proud history as we embark on an even brighter future.
Along with the refresh of our brand, we’re evolving our approach to campaigning, bargaining, and the support we provide you. And this year, it has never been so important. With major campaigns ahead of us, we’ll be calling on members to take action as part of a united and diverse community of educators employed in the preschool, primary, secondary, and TAFE sectors in South Australia. With the strength of our membership, I am excited for what we can achieve together.
In 2023, the AEU will bring to the table a practical and ambitious vision for a bright future in public education. Our advocacy is stronger and more sophisticated than ever, informed by your experiences and driven by our collective strength. This will begin with negotiations for a new enterprise agreement and continue as we look to address the challenges of a public education system under increasing pressure. Together, we will continue to advocate for both the
value and values of a strong, vibrant, and high-quality public education system and the professional educators who provide it. As the nature of education changes, the AEU is changing to reflect new challenges and new opportunities, and we look forward to bringing you along with us.
If you have any queries, please contact Branch Secretary, Leah York leah.york@aeusa.asn.au or 0417 894 085
Wishing you all the best for 2023, and as always, do not hesitate to get in touch if there is anything we can do to support your work this year.
LEAH YORK BRANCH SECRETARY, AEU SA
The road ahead won’t always be easy, but no matter where your public education career in South Australia takes you, the AEU is here to support you, protect you, and advocate for your interests.
If you have a question, are having trouble at work, or need support, our friendly Info Unit team are here for you. You can call, email, or send us a message on Facebook for prompt, accurate and confidential information.
In 2023, our Info Unit is made up of educators, union veterans, and specialists, committed to ensuring your rights are protected at work.
…being there when you need us. Between us, we have a breadth of knowledge that supports every member, no matter the size of their concern. I’m proud to oversee such a skilled and friendly group and know they’ll take care of you when you reach out.
...offering prompt and correct advice in a timely manner. It is important to engage with someone as soon as we answer the phone in an empathetic and understanding way, which leads to a good rapport with each member we talk to. When we need clarification on a certain matter, we discuss it as a team so we can get the correct information. We email supporting documentation to our members, so they have the correct information in writing. We love to receive feedback if the information we have provided has ended with a positive outcome.
...staying on top of all the details that members don’t have time to keep up with. It’s great when we can point out a condition that a member’s not aware of that makes a big difference to their work or life. Nothing’s too trivial, we love hearing from members. I love it when a member calls feeling that they’ve got the weight of the world on their shoulders and at the end of the call they feel much better just by having someone to talk to who understands their situation.
…assisting, advising and supporting members with grievances in the workplace, with payroll or with the Department. This includes workplace conflicts, performance matters, over or underpayment, tier progression, and placement. If you need assistance, you can always call the Information Unit!
...helping them know their rights and capabilities within a complex industrial system, striving to provide them with the greatest options available for whatever situations they may find themselves in.
…supporting member wellbeing at work. It isn’t just about rest, meditation, and yoga. Professional recognition, relationships, participation, and respect all play a part. And maintaining your wellbeing at work is not only your responsibility. Under Work Health and Safety law your employer also has responsibility. If you have a question or concern, the Information Unit can help!
We support members by...
The AEU Information Unit provides members with advice on questions of pay, leave, and general working conditions.
The Information Unit is staffed:
Monday: 8.15am - 5pm
Tuesday to Friday: 10.30am - 5pm
For advice and assistance please phone 8172 6300 or email info@aeusa.asn.au
TAKE A BREATHER
It’s important that we all contribute to building our union. Please ask your colleagues to join and ensure their continuity of membership of the AEU community comprising of over 185,000 educators across Australia.
For more information visit www.aeusa.asn.au/join
Quick breaks that help you refocus and return to work feeling centered.
SUDUKO
Fill in the numbers 1-9 exactly once in every row, column, and 3x3 region.
Chill out with this cross-body exercise
Stand tall and cross one leg in front of the other while pressing the outsides of your feet together. Now cross your arms over one another at the wrists. Clasp your hands and curl your arms into your chest. Take a few breaths, uncross and cross the opposite way for a few more breaths.
From 30 years ago, a cartoon for union publications from Bill Cook, artist and former Vice President. Answers Scan the QR Code to see the answers.
As we head into 2023, get to know the team who will be supporting you at your site. Organisers know your workplace and are there to ensure your rights are being upheld.
Organisers are AEU employees who are responsible for developing union activism in workplaces by identifying, motivating, leading and educating members and potential members. Organisers work in schools, preschools and TAFE campuses, collaborating with existing members to understand and improve conditions and grow membership.
NORTH WEST ANANGU
PITJANTJATJARA
YANKUNYTJATJARA LANDS
FAR NORTH
NORTH WEST URBAN
LE FEVRE
WESTERN URBAN
TORRENS
SOUTHERN URBAN
GAWLER
ELIZABETH
MUNNO PARA
NORTHERN URBAN
TEA TREE GULLY
NORTH EAST URBAN
EASTERN URBAN
CENTRAL URBAN
MITCHAM
WHYALLA
EYRE
LINCOLN
FAR WEST YORKE
PIRIE
NOARLUNGA
FLINDERS
MID NORTH
LOWER NORTH
SOUTHERN VALES
METRO
BAROSSA
RIVERLAND
HILLS
KANGAROO ISLAND
If your site would benefit from a visit, get in touch with campaigns@aeusa.asn.au
FLEURIEU
MURRAYLANDS
UPPER
SOUTH EAST
LOWER
SOUTH EAST
Anne Beinke
Lead Organiser
+ Pirie
+ Flinders
+ North West
+ Far North + Mid North
Daniel Pereira Organiser
+ Central Urban
+ Noarlunga
+ Mitcham
+ Southern Vales
+ Fleurieu
Howard Spreadbury
Leaders' Focus
+ Hills
+ Southern Urban
+ Torrens
+ Whyalla
Michele Appleton
Aboriginal Focus
+ Yorke
+ Lower North
+ Gawler
+ Barossa
Jill Hillard Organiser
+ Upper South East
+ Lower South East
+ Western Urban
+ Le Fevre
+ Eastern Urban
Nathan West Organiser
+ Lincoln
+ Far West
+ Eyre
+ Tea Tree Gully
+ North East Urban
Angela Dean
TAFE Focus
+ All TAFE Campuses
+ Kangaroo Island
Marc Zinndorf Organiser
+ Northern Urban
+ North West Urban
+ Elizabeth Munno Para
+ Riverland
+ Murraylands
AEU Vice Presidents, Jan and Matthew, reflect on their careers in public education and their hopes for the future.
JAN Working with young people is exciting, it’s creative and it’s different every day. It can be super challenging but just as rewarding. Being a teacher means you work hard, you get to laugh and cry, you lose sleep but can have lots of fun too.
What’s your favourite thing about education?
MATTHEW I love working with my students to help them develop knowledge and skills that will help them improve their lives. The most rewarding aspect of the profession has always been seeing my students take the knowledge and skills we’ve worked on together and apply them to their own lives and contexts.
Which teacher from your childhood made the strongest impression on you?
MATTHEW It’s hard for me to identify one teacher, though I vividly remember Mr. Hood’s kindness and patience when teaching trigonometry, calculus, and statistics. He had a manner that never demonstrated any feelings of frustration, even when the class struggled to understand concepts. Mrs. Zika was a fantastic English teacher who showed us that you can laugh and joke around while learning. Without either, I wouldn’t be the teacher I am today.
JAN My mum was a teacher, so I’ve always been surrounded by educators. She had a huge impact on me and my choice to become a teacher. But there were others, too. Wonderful people who I felt I connected with, and I knew they cared. Many of my favourites made learning fun and obviously enjoyed their work.
What do you wish someone had told you when you were a new educator?
JAN Thankfully, they did. Living in Adelaide and with very little experience, I was offered a permanent job in a country school. Luckily, those I found around me were incredibly supportive and become lifelong friends. At times when I thought I was done with education, they convinced me I’d be OK and to keep going. I am forever grateful to them.
What was your first involvement in union activism?
MATTHEW I started my career as a quiet union member. I’d attend sub-branch meetings and participate in ballots when they were called but wasn’t significantly active until my site began experiencing significant pressures that required collective support and action. I started by serving as the AEU PAC Representative and then the Sub-Branch Secretary. Eventually, I was leading rallies in Mount Gambier during the last round of enterprise bargaining.
MATTHEW Our profession’s fixation on always being ‘professional’ strips away much of the humanity and personality that educators can bring to the classroom. Your ‘professionalism’ will be held up to ever-changing standards that often make you feel ashamed. You’re better off finding your own path to a positive, constructive, and fun learning environment, which allows your students to thrive.
JAN I joined the AEU as soon as I finished studying. I remember my first rallies and marches and the excitement of being part of something important and BIG. In Port Pirie for early action in support of SSOs and around Partnerships 21. Adelaide Oval and a few on the steps of Parliament House for enterprise bargaining. That collectivism always feels amazing.
Get involved! Coming along to your first union meeting can be intimidating, but joining our network of over XX educators is one of the best things you can do for your career and the future of public education. Reach out to your sites sub-branch secretary to find out more.
AEU Committee nominations are now open aeusa.asn.au/elections
What do you think the future of public education in SA looks like?
JAN Amazing educators, potential for positive change when we achieve funding agreements that respect public education, rebuilding in the TAFE sector – I’d say it looks bright. It will take genuine political and systemic intent, but what could be more important for our future than having fair funding and an equitable and creative public education system?
MATTHEW There’s a lot of potential within our public education system. We have so many amazing educators pouring their hearts and souls into improving the lives of the young people with whom they work. If the Department and Government commit to listening to the educators in sites, then there’s a good chance that the future is bright.
What are you most looking forward to achieving with members in 2023?
MATTHEW Obviously, we’ll be negotiating a new enterprise agreement and will need the help of members to ensure we get the outcomes they want. However, I want to continue working with members in other ways to achieve change - bringing them into meetings with the Department to discuss important issues and policies and organising more events like the IESP Roundtable.
JAN Working with amazing people. The big rallies. The courageous members. The difference our union makes. It’s hard to pick one but I often think of members who we’ve supported to gain permanency and how that can change a life. They stick with me for sure. As do those we haven’t won... yet.
What are your tips for starting the year off right?
MATTHEW It’s vital that each week, you find the time to look after yourself. Try to settle into a routine that incorporates a focus on you throughout the week - not just the weekend. If you aren’t taking care of yourself, you’re going to run out of energy, which will negatively affect your colleagues and students.
And work collectively to support each other and effect change when you’re dissatisfied with what you see.
JAN Working with a fabulous team to empower members and sub-branches and develop union leaders in sites. Being part of a bigger more active union to achieve positive change through enterprise bargaining. Working with our member committees in whatever direction members know we need to go.
What’s your favourite AEU memory?
MATTHEW I was immensely proud to see several of my students and their families attending one of the stop work rallies in Mount Gambier during the last round of enterprise bargaining. I was flanked by one of those students at the front of the group while marching to the local Education Office. It showed that the students cared about us.
JAN Take a real break and do what you need to re-charge. Listen to others and to your own advice. Trust yourself. If you’re not OK with the way things are, speak up and work with others to bring about change. I hope 2023 is a positive and rewarding year for members and brings happy times.
We’ve come a long way since our beginnings, but our core principles have remained the same: a ommitment to our members, to public educators, and the quality public education every child deserves.
In this issue of the Journal we celebrate our proud history, and our bright future with a fresh look and an ambitious plan.
As the nature of public education changes, we must change with it. Our transformation to 'a new union' is our first step in a new direction with members at the centre.
This year, we’re inviting those who have left us to join us again. For those we are yet to meet, to see who we are. And for those who have stuck by us, to be part of a strong and exciting union.
This starts with our members. We’ll continue to fight together for improved working conditions, for professional respect, and for the public education every child deserves.
Because no matter how we look, that’s never going to change.
From the South Australian Institute of Teachers, to the Australian Education Union we know today, there are some things that have always remained the same.
LOWER SOUTH EAST
METRO
HILLS
ONLINE
BAROSSA FLINDERS
FAR WEST
FAR NORTH RIVERLAND
NORTH EAST URBAN/TEA TREE GULLY
NORTH URBAN/NORTH WEST URBAN
YORKE SOUTH
TORRENS/WEST URBAN
GAWLER
MID NORTH
ELIZABETH/MUNNO PARA
MITCHAM/SOUTHERN URBAN
UPPER SOUTH EAST
COMMITTEE NOMINATIONS CLOSE
YORKE NORTH
WHYALLA
LE FEVRE
FLEURIEU
NOARLUNGA
MURRAYLANDS
CENTRAL/EASTERN
LEADERSHIP IN A RURAL
- BUILDING AND MAINTAINING A TEAM
LEADERSHIP: THE EXPERIENCE OF WOMEN IN MIDDLE LEADERSHIP DIFFERENTIATION WITH A LEADERSHIP: MANAGING CHALLENGING CONVERSATIONS
AEU AREA MEETINGS Register for a meeting at aeusa.asn.au/areameeting
TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
AVAILABLE TO AEU MEMBERS
For more information head to aeusa.asn.au/upcoming
ROYAL COMMISSION INTO EARLY EDUCATION AEU CONSULTATION
For more information head to aeusa.asn.au
SUB-BRANCH SECRETARY HUDDLE: SKILLS
ADVICE
HILLS AND MURRAYLANDS
PORT PIRIE
AEU MERIT TRAINING
RIVERLAND
FINAL DAY TO HOLD YOUR SUB-BRANCH AGM TO NOMINATE YOUR REPRESENTATIVE
AEU FEDERAL CONFERENCE
PORT PIRIE PORT PIRIE
KANGAROO ISLAND EYRE
HILLS FLEURIEU
SOUTH METRO
NOARLUNGA SOUTHERN VALES
MURRAYLANDS
LOWER SOUTH EAST CENTRAL/EASTERN URBAN
LOWER NORTH
SUPPORTING STUDENTS WHO EXPERIENCED TRAUMA ENGAGING STEM USING LEGO
LEADERSHIP - BEING A LEADER RURAL OR SMALL SCHOOL
AEU PAC REP TRAINING UNION FINANCIAL GOVERNANCE TRAINING
DIFFERENTIATION FOR STUDENTS A LEARNING DISABILITY
NEW UNION REPS: LEVEL 1
EARLY CHILDHOOD SESSIONS
aeusa.asn.au
AEU ENTERPRISE BARGAINING CAMPAIGN BRIEFING
For more information head to fixthecrisis.com.au
Clare started teaching in England and Uganda, soon becoming active in the National Union of Teachers in London. She brought that activism to South Australia in 1977 as a classroom teacher. The South Australian Institute of Teachers (SAIT) had been conservative and dominated by Principals, but CLARE AND OTHER CLASSROOM TEACHERS BEGAN TO ASSERT THEIR INFLUENCE. CLARE’S CLASSROOM TEACHER NETWORK WAS A PART OF THAT MOVEMENT.
Clare served two terms as SAIT VicePresident and two terms as President - always campaigning for classroom teachers, workplace organisation, democratically determined policy, and education.
During Clare’s Presidency, SAIT joined with the national Australian Teachers Union to form the Australian Education Union (SA Branch). Subsequently, Clare was elected National Vice-President of the AEU. During her term of office, Clare was an International Delegate for Australian Educators at the first World Conference of Teacher Organisations in Sweden. At the end of her term, in 1996, Clare was made a Life Member of the AEU.
In 1993, Clare was endorsed as an Independent Education candidate in the State Election for the SA Legislative Council by Branch Executive and State Council and, after receiving the highest number of
First Preferences other than major party tickets, was the last candidate excluded from the count.
The South Australian Trades and Labor Council (UTLCSA) was at this time affiliated with the AEU and held fortnightly meetings of hundreds of delegates. Clare was elected to the UTLCSA Executive and subsequently as the first woman President. This placed Clare on the National Executive of the Australian Congress of Trade Unions (ACTU).
Clare returned to classroom teaching in 1996, became the AEU representative at Oakbank Area School, Council Delegate, and was re-elected to State Executive. After ‘retiring’ from the Department, Clare began tutoring at UniSA and Flinders, completed a PhD through the University of Technology Sydney, and became a Senior Lecturer and Director in the School of Education at Flinders University. Clare joined the National Tertiary Education Union and was elected to their State Executive. In 2014 Clare was elected as Academic Staff Member to the Flinders University Council.
CLARE MCCARTY PASSED AWAY IN 2016, STILL TEACHING RIGHT TO THE LAST.
WORDS BY DOUGLAS MCCARTHY.
Reflections from South Australian AEU Life Members, the history of your union and more.
The concept of ‘union’ was an essential aspect of Jan Lee’s life. Jan held the core belief that all workers are deserving of livelihood based on fair, just and equitable principles. And that respect for professions is built and fought for through the work of unions. Being an AEU member means being part of a collective voice that believes public education and those that choose to work as public educators are deserving of professional respect.
EDUCATION IS A POWERFUL TOOL. WHEN WE RECEIVE AN EDUCATION, WE ARE GIVEN THE TOOLS TO PARTICIPATE FULLY IN SOCIETY AND TO MAKE INFORMED CHOICES ABOUT OUR LIVES.
The value of a strong public education system allows all people, regardless of circumstances outside of our control, to have the opportunity to wield this power.
Public educators give value to this practice. Even when this value is questioned, we continue to work toward achieving the best outcomes for our students. Public educators are a collective of their own and the AEU brings them together, enabling a partnership that capitalises on this strength.
As individuals, we can represent ourselves, but our influence is limited. As a collective of union members, we wield a power that allows us to bargain for a better future. A future not just for ourselves, but for everyone. For Jan, this was non-negotiable, as was being a member of the AEU.
Public education will always be a political battle ground because of its immense power to transform society. Jan knew this and knew that the only way to fight back was to ensure a strong union came to the bargaining table. As a collective, the AEU would, and does, continue to work toward achieving respect for the profession and its students. And that is the continued hope for the future of education.
JANET LEE PASSED AWAY IN 2021.
WORDS BY PHOEBE GUNN.
HOW HAS BEING AN AEU MEMBER SHAPED YOUR CAREER? WHAT YOUR HOPES FOR THE FUTURE EDUCATION?
HOW HAS BEING AN SHAPED YOUR CAREER? YOUR HOPES FOR EDUCATION?
I joined the SA Institute of Teachers (SAIT), now AEU SA, as a young teacher.
UNION MEMBERSHIP MADE ME FEEL PART OF A PROFESSIONAL BODY AND THAT I WAS NOT ALONE IN MY CLASSROOM. I HAD A SENSE OF BELONGING .
When I took my first union position, I became the workplace representative, allowing me to be involved and active in my profession.
Within a few years, I discovered how vulnerable our contract members were. Assisted by AEU SA industrial staff, I was called on to support a fellow member whose naivete placed her at risk. This experience consolidated my view that the least experienced, the most precariously employed, and the youngest teachers need the solid support of a union and its members. I engaged in the democratic processes of union committees and Branch Council and learnt how power can be expressed.
My first industrial action as a union member was when SAIT members took strike action in support of School Services Officers’ demands to be properly recognised and valued for their work in schools. There was a powerful sense amongst teaching members that the collective strength of the whole membership was essential to drive change for our poorest paid members.
For me, the curriculum, how it is taught and resourced, and how educators are professionally developed and supported are integral to AEU membership. My lived philosophy is encapsulated by the following words, which guided my union and professional work and speak to the future of education:
"The truly radical teacher must work on two fronts simultaneously: the pedagogical front to be sure, where we must more than ever be bold and innovative because the immediate future requires no less of us; but also on the political and social front, for the vigorous defence of democratic rights and workers’ rights."
- Celestin Freinet, 1935
LYNN HALL AEU LIFE MEMBER
Cheryl Harris made a remarkable contribution to the AEU throughout her life. Cheryl was a strong advocate for Aboriginal people and AEU members, chairing the Aboriginal Education Consultative Committee (AECC) meeting for many years. As a member of the AECC, Cheryl contributed significantly to the plan’s development and engaged artist Susan Betts, whose work is featured on the AEU RAP document. Cheryl was a founding member of the Reconciliation Committee and was always an integral part of the Aboriginal Members’ Conference. Cheryl represented members in the Lincoln Area for many years, tirelessly advocating for her region in area and branch council meetings. Cheryl was always an active and engaged unionist whose passion was evident whenever she spoke about unionism and representing our members. Her knowledge and wisdom were invaluable to us all.
CHERYL HARRIS PASSED AWAY IN 2022.
WORDS BY MICHELE APPLETON.
My activism began at Wattle Park Teachers College in 1967, where I helped organise a national student teachers’ association. In 1970, my career was interrupted by National Service including active service South Vietnam and returned to Wattle Park Teachers College on a rehabilitation scholarship. It was the union that kept in contact with me in Vietnam and the union President successfully intervening on my behalf when the only communication I received from the Education department was an alleged salary overpayment of $47.20 for the first 4 weeks of my National Service. While teaching at Cleve Area School, I became Sub-Branch Secretary and President of the Upper Eastern Eyre Peninsula Teachers Association and worked to ensure teachers did not have to use their sick leave for illnesses such as mumps or chicken pox.
In 1979, I became an Organiser for SAIT, organising members on Eyre Peninsula and Northern regions of the state. I worked to represent the interests of government employees in country locations to Ministers, negotiating rentfree housing for teachers in the APY Lands.
I served as a board member of Reconciliation South Australia and worked to establish the Aboriginal Education Workers Award in 1987 - the first culturally based award in Australia. In 1982, I worked with Pat and Peter Buckskin negotiating with the ALP to include the appointment of Aboriginal Education Teachers in their election platform. In 1994, I also worked with Pat Buckskin on the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody Project, developing career structures for Aboriginal non-teaching school and preschool positions in schools nationally, pushing for smaller classes for teachers, SSOs and AEWs in Aboriginal & Anangu Schools.
I worked to improve the superannuation benefits for educators. As President of the South Australian Government Federation, I led Parliamentary negotiations amending legislation so that public sector employees are now able to access transition to retirement benefits.
I’M PROUD TO HAVE BUILT A CAREER FOCUSED ON BETTERING THE LIVES OF EDUCATORS AND STUDENTS, WORK THAT SITS AT THE CORE OF THE UNION MOVEMENT AND APPRECIATE THE OPPORTUNITIES THE UNION HAS GIVEN ME TO LEAD PRODUCTIVE LIFE IN RETIREMENT.
BILL HIGNETTIn 1974, when I was a younger teacher and part of an active group of AEU members, we established a school-level staff association as a branch of the South Australian Institute of Teachers (which later became the AEU). This provided our members with a forum and a vehicle to struggle for improvements in conditions, particularly class sizes, and to challenge the then inadequate leadership of both the school and the union.
Later, as a SAIT official, I was part of the effort to build the industrial and political strength to fight at the state level for improvements in educators’ salaries and working conditions, including conditions and compensation for country members, and in learning rights and conditions for students. Our strong and determined membership rallied and sacrificed income when necessary, applying continuous pressure on Liberal and Labor governments to achieve improvements and recognition of our rights.
When I later became a school principal, my AEU membership
helped me to maintain a perspective on colleagues’ experiences at a classroom level.
MY MEMBERSHIP HELPED MAINTAIN BRIDGES OF UNDERSTANDING AND RESPECT, STRENGTHENING OUR COLLEGIALITY, SENSE OF UNITY AND COMMON PURPOSE, AND MUTUAL SUPPORT.
Leaders who are also union members have the in-built advantage of a sense of unity and collegiality with other staff, thus contributing to the successful development of the school. They can be the captaincoach of the team, rather than some divorced manager attempting to assert leadership from another plane. Union membership also provided me protection when I needed to oppose various government or departmental policies or edicts.
Union membership over a forty-year career was a privilege, protection, and a source of camaraderie and success.
DAVID TONKIN AEU LIFE MEMBERLife Membership with the Australian Education Union was awarded to me in February 2020. Receiving this award before my union peers at the Annual Federal Conference was a great honour.
I have been a member of my local education union since the commencement of my teaching career in Queensland in 1974. My local activity as a member of the Queensland Teachers Union translated to that of the South Australian Institute of Teachers (SAIT) upon relocating to Adelaide in 1986.
As a contract and then a permanent teacher in Port Pirie, I became involved in pursuing of parity of salary and conditions for preschool teachers with their school counterparts. I was involved in local action, including stopwork rallies targeted at increasing levels of permanent employment for teachers in country areas.
It was this engagement that led me to seek employment with my union, initially as an Organiser with an Early Childhood focus, commencing
in 1993. In 1996, SAIT became a Branch of the Australian Education Union, commencing a new era of national strength.
This led to involvement at the federal level, when I became a member of the AEU national Early Childhood Committee, later the chair, and finally the committee’s representative on the Federal Executive.
At the branch level, I took on the role of Lead Organiser supporting a team of campaign Officers. This was followed by my election to the position of Branch Vice President in 2014 and subsequently Branch President from 2016 to 2019.
It has been an honour to serve the members of our great union in a range of capacities during those years. I wear my Life Membership badge proudly.
IT IS A CONSTANT REMINDER OF WHAT CAN BE ACHIEVED WHEN WE UNITE TO ACHIEVE BETTER OUTCOMES FOR OURSELVES, OUR STUDENTS, AND PUBLIC EDUCATION IN THIS COUNTRY. HOWARD SPREADBURY
AEU LIFE MEMBERBEING A MEMBER OF MY UNION WAS FUNDAMENTAL IN SHAPING ME AS AN EDUCATOR, A FEMINIST, AND A LEADER.
From my first union meeting, I felt included in a collective of people who debated, challenged, took action, and made change. Union meetings were my support group as a new country teacher, and I still have lifelong friends and comrades from those early days as a union member. In 1980, at the age of 21, I was asked to speak at a rally when we went on strike for SSO job security. I regularly attended state council meetings in Adelaide where I heard from impressive and inspiring leaders who pulled us away from the old boys' club and created a modern, progressive union.
We welcomed our first Women’s Officer, started women’s networks and conferences, and were at the vanguard of girls' education and women’s advancement. These experiences shaped my politics and gave me hope that we could change the world. We broke down barriers and won job security and real careers
for teachers, SSOs, and Aboriginal Education Workers.
It was the union, not the Department, that led curriculum change and gave a voice to those who worked to tackle inequality and it was the union that stood up against the attacks on public education. It was a privilege first to be a member, Sub-Branch Secretary and delegate, then to move into the role of Organiser, Executive Member, and later Vice President and President of my own union. Together, we fought for our rights as workers and the right of all to a high quality, free, secular public education. We sometimes lost, but we remained strong because the collective power in union gave us the power we didn’t have individually.
Being a life member of my union means being a small part of the movement toward a fairer, more equal world, where everyone can achieve their potential and build a better future for themselves, their community, and those they love.
JANET GILES AEU LIFE MEMBER
I became active in SAIT. As state governments changed, we won improvements, but we had to achieve federal funding for state schools. As SAIT Assistant General Secretary, I organised a national campaign with other Australian Teachers Federation (ATF) affiliates.
In 1973, the Whitlam government established the National School Commission (NSC). I was elected Assistant Federal Secretary of ATF. After the constitutional crisis of 1975, Malcolm Fraser planned to abolish the NSC. Teachers and parents across the nation held meetings and presented school-based demands. Parliament stopped while a delegation met the Prime Minister. We won that battle, and the NSC was maintained.
I also worked with the World Confederation in our region, notably with the Papua New Guinea Teachers’ Association as it became independent of the ATF.
ATF resolved to support amalgamation of the ‘white-collar’ organisations with the ACTU. I was one two ATF representatives in negotiations with Bob Hawke as ACTU President. The 1978 Conference in Adelaide voted for amalgamation. The newly constituted Australian Teachers' Union registered as a national union, then became the AEU. Its leaders went on to play prominent roles in the ACTU and in the international trade union movement.
Internationally, I initiated programs with developing countries. At the Melbourne World Assembly in 1988, I was elected Secretary General of the World Confederation. Following the fall of the Berlin wall, we overcame ideological cleavages to create Education International (EI) in January 1993. EI’s membership grew to reach 32 million in 178 countries. We created the Council of Global Unions. I chaired NGO Conferences at the United Nations, UNESCO and the OECD. With that background, I was glad to return to my home state last year to publish Dancing before storms: the story of five revolutions that made today’s world.
ROBERT HARRIS AEU LIFE MEMBER
I LOVED CLASSROOM TEACHING, BUT THE CONDITIONS WERE POOR: OVERSIZED CLASSES, TERRIBLE BUILDINGS, GENDER DISCRIMINATION.
A new union is not about leaving the past behind but celebrating our progress and preparing for the future.
It’s an exciting time for the AEU in South Australia. Aligning with a new internal structure, a new strategic plan, our digital innovation, and the start of a new school year, it is the perfect time for a refreshed AEU.
We have big plans, and member involvement will be a significant feature of this new direction. We’ve updated resources, handbooks, fact sheets, campaign kits, and digital presence to make the union more accessible than ever for you, our members. And, of course, we will continue to play our constructive role as the largest professional voice for public educators in South Australia. We look forward to walking with you on this new journey together. Because together, we will achieve great things.
Your AEU SA membership gives you access to values-based professional learning that helps to develop your practical skills.
The sessions are in real time and allow you to work with other professionals to gain insight and grow as an educator.
Classroom Management and Engagement Strategies
+ Tue 18 - Wed 19 April, 9.15am – 3.30pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $99 | Staff working in public education who are not currently an AEU member: $333
+ For: Teachers, leaders and ancillary staff currently working in public education
A highly regarded two day course delivered by classroom teachers focused on new ways to engage students and create safe and accountable classroom spaces.
AEU SA New Educators' Conference
+ Fri 19 - Sat 20 May
+ Cost: Free for members
+ For: Full AEU SA members in their first three years of teaching
If you are in your first three years of teaching this conference is for you! Join us for two day's of connection, inspiration and sharing.
Hear from guest speakers, hone your skills in workshops, and get involved in networking sessions for your wellbeing. Topics include classroom management, rights and entitlements, e-safety, and secure work campaigning.
Travel and accommodation support provided to Country members.
AEU PAC Representative Training
+ Wed 1 March, 1pm - 4pm (New Leaders Focus)
+ Wed 12 April, 1pm - 4pm
+ Thur 20 April, 10am - 1pm
+ Cost: Free for members
+ For: AEU member PAC Representative –new and those wanting to retrain
AEU member PAC training is offered to ensure all AEU members with an interest or responsibility in school human resource matters can access, investigate and discuss elements of the Enterprise Agreement and other documents in relation to PAC decisions.
AEU Merit Representative Training
+ Thur 2 March, 4pm - 6pm
+ Tue 4 April, 4pm - 6pm
+ Wed 26 April, 10am - 12pm
+ Cost: Free for members
+ For: AEU Members who wish to become an AEU Representative on panels
A two hour retraining session for AEU members who last attended Merit Selection training in 2017 or AEU Members who want to be an AEU Representative on Merit Selection Panels.
Wellbeing: Planning for Success
Professional Learning for AEU Leaders
A national look at planning for Wellbeing Leaders
+ Tue 7 March, 5:30pm - 7pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $33
+ For: AEU members only (including aspiring leaders)
This session will outline the foundations of wellbeing science, including the PERMAH Framework of Wellbeing which impact positive teaming at work – positive emotion, relationships, engagement (character strengths), and achievement (habits, goal setting).
Supporting students who have experienced trauma
+ Thur 30 March, 5:30pm - 7pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $33
+ For: AEU members only
Learn to support students who have experienced trauma and manage resulting behaviours. The session will also be helpful for Education Support Staff who may be working one to one or with small groups.
Engaging STEM using Lego (primary)
+ Thur 30 March, 4pm - 5pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $33
+ For: AEU members only
TV game show contestant and Lego fan Ryan Evans will outline some simple strategies for using building materials in the classroom to engage students and encourage the development of experimentation and critical thinking. This session focuses on how teachers can provide thought provoking questions and appropriate prompts when completing building challenges.
Leadership - being a leader in a rural or small school
+ Thur 13 April, 1:30pm - 4:30pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $33
+ For: AEU members only
This session will explore the strategies that leaders have used to find success and satisfaction in their role. Hear about approaches that new and aspirant leaders can use to build leadership capabilities and learn to thrive in ta small or rural school.
Leadership - building and maintaining a team
+ Tue 18 April, 1:30pm - 4:30pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $33
+ For: AEU members only
Explore practical team building approaches that aspiring and emerging leaders can use in their leadership roles, including communication techniques, shared goal setting, building on strengths, and protocols for team meetings and operation.
Leadership - the experience of women in middle leadership
+ Wed 19 April, 1:30pm - 4:30pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $33
+ For: AEU members only
Gain insight into the experiences and knowledge of women working in middle leadership roles at this valuable session. All are welcome to attend the session.
Leadership - managing challenging conversations
+ Wed 19 April, 1:30pm - 4:30pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $33
+ For: AEU members only
This session will support leaders in their approach to managing challenging conversations within the school community, with a focus on practical communication skills to plan, prepare, and engage in challenging conversations.
Differentiation for students with a learning disability
+ Thur 20 April, 9:30am - 2:30pm
+ Cost: AEU SA members: $33
+ For: AEU members only
Hear from one of Australia's leading teachers on working with students with learning disabilities. This session will outline approaches to self-regulation and sensory processing, behavioural issues, and knowledge acquisition experienced by those students with learning disability. There will be a particular focus on ASD and ADHD. It is a practical, classroom focused course.
New Union Representatives Level 1
+ Tue 24 April, 9:15am - Fri 28 April, 3:30pm
+ Cost: Free for members
+ For: AEU members in elected positions who have not completed level 1 training previously
This hands on, participatory course works with you to ensure you know what your rights and responsibilities are as an elected union representative.
Travel and accommodation support provided to Country members.
