Newsmonth: November, 2011 (Vol 31 / No.7)

NEWSPAPER OF THE NSW/ACT INDEPENDENT EDUCATION UNION [ VOL 31 #7 ] November 2011

Print Post: 225007/0002 – ISSN: 0728-4845

Catholic employers' muzzle fails C

atholic employers’ attempts to muzzle the Union in Fair Work Australia have failed dismally.

Catholic employers have distributed a salaries and conditions ‘agreement’ to teachers in nine Catholic independent schools without any prior consultation with the Union.

IEU General Secretary Dick Shearman says that while the Union agreed in principle with the salaries offer, “we had a number of significant concerns with other aspects”.

Before meeting to try to resolve some of the issues, the employers tried to get the Union to agree to a process that would restrict its ability to consult with IEU members.

“They refused to meet at all unless we agreed to be muzzled,” Mr Shearman says.

Fair Work Australia heard the dispute notification by the CCER — on behalf of the nine Catholic Independent schools — on Monday 24 October.

“The Catholic employers have so far refused to respond in writing to the Union’s concerns, claiming we may criticise them if they do,” Mr Shearman says.

The CCER told the hearing it wanted the Union to agree to a “negotiations process” as a precondition to meeting on the substance of the differences with the Union.

“The Union is somewhat bemused by this. We only ever criticise employers based on the content of their proposals.

It’s the detail in the agreement that is the problem.”

His Honour Deputy President Sams was highly critical of the CCER saying that no Union would agree to consult with employers before sending information to its members.

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p3-4 IEU AGM Members converge

Fair Work Australia dismissed this argument saying the CCER seemed to want to try and stop the Union being critical of the employers.

The Union defended its reputation, saying no other employer had ever tried to establish a “process” as a precondition to meeting with the Union.

The tribunal hearing ended with the Union and the CCER agreeing to meet without any preconditions. This was the outcome sought by the Union.

“His Honour Deputy President Sams was highly critical of the CCER saying that no Union would agree to consult with employers before sending information to its members.”

Another meeting was scheduled at press time. The Union will provide a report to members on the outcome of this meeting and will continue to keep members fully informed at all stages of the negotiating process.

Join the See professional p16 development calendar action:

It's all happening …

Christian Brothers Conference IEU gathers reps and activists

The CCER persisted, arguing that the Union might “ambush” Catholic employers during negotiations.

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Let’s Get Connected Conference Support staff explore all things tech

p5 Indexation of school funding

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Growing Education for Sustainability Conference Getting out there and having a go p9 Affinity with faith

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IEU Race Day Roaring success for race-goers

www.ieu.asn.au

Changes ahead for child protection Gloria Taylor IEU D e p u t y S e c r e ta r y

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roposed changes to the Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) Act should be a turning point in screening approaches for child protection.

These proposals have arisen from a 2010 review of the Act. Some of the recommendations from the recently published report of the review could result in significant and much needed reform.

The legislation is yet to be drafted, however, and the Union is eager to ensure that the final outcomes genuinely lead to fairer processes for employees.

Since the inception of the CCYP Act and most recently in our submission to the 2010 Review, the Union has raised the need for access to a formal appeals process for those who believe that their child protection matter has been unfairly referred to the CCYP for employment screening.

be clearly defined to capture only serious misconduct in the workplace.

In our handling of child protection matters over the years we have seen significantly different approaches to processes and findings arising from the diverse nature of our employers and their investigative procedures.

The Union is greatly concerned that members with minor or unsustained matters can permanently attract screening for risk assessment. The IEU therefore welcomes the proposal for an appeals process to be available through the Administrative Decisions Tribunal.

Improved definitions should help avoid harsh referrals for screening. The challenge will be to draft definitions that effectively eliminate minor matters.

The IEU also agrees that Relevant Employment Proceedings should

The IEU has some concerns about the recommendations, including the imposition of user fees for the Working with Children Check.

ACT teachers to vote on industrial action Carol Matthews IEU A ssis ta n t S e c r e ta r y

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air Work Australia has approved an application by the Union for a ballot to authorise protected industrial action in ACT Catholic schools.

The vote will be of teachers in ACT Catholic schools conducted by the CEO.

Postal ballot All teachers are urged to vote and post their ballot paper back to the Australian Electoral Commission by Friday 11 November (the deadline is 10am Monday 14 November).

In order for the ballot to be successful, at least 50% of teachers eligible to vote must do so and post their ballot paper to the AEC, with a majority voting in favour.

The Union expects that ballot papers will arrive at teachers’ homes around 1 November (Melbourne Cup Day).

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ACT pay below NSW rates The dispute concerns the failure of the Union and the CEO to reach agreement on rates of pay for teachers and others in promotions positions.

Salary rates in ACT schools are below those in NSW Catholic and government schools. Although the CEO has offered to create a new top step, giving an increase of 7.5% to address the differential at the top of the scale, there is still no agreement on general pay rises in 2012 and 2013 as the CEO has only offered 2.5% per annum.

The next step The ballot is a necessary legal step to authorise industrial action. If the ballot is successful, the Union will consult with ACT members before any decision is made to take action.

The Union will also continue to negotiate with the CEO to try and reach agreement. A major difficulty is that there is no settlement in the ACT public sector and, as members would be aware, continuing industrial action is planned in ACT government schools.

Child protection matters continue to make up a large number of the Union’s industrial disputes. The process can be traumatic for members and it is essential that those subject to allegations have full rights to fair processes. The IEU will continue to press for the best possible outcomes in the proposed legislative changes.

Business managers sign up to bargain

John Quessy IEU a ssis ta n t S e c r e ta r y

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usiness managers in the Parramatta Diocese have signed a petition calling on their employer to begin bargaining with the IEU for an enterprise agreement covering their salaries and conditions.

Like the office-based Catholic Education Office staff the business managers have no appropriate industrial instrument to regulate their employment circumstances beyond any highly inadequate Modern Award.

Currently their entitlements’ are stipulated in a range of documents and in custom and practice. While the CEO and the IEU have in place a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in relation to salaries and some conditions for the office-based staff this does not apply to all and such a MoU is not enforceable by Fair Work Australia (FWA).

Business managers first proposed a federal enterprise agreement (EA) in 2010 but were prepared to wait until the orderly transition of the existing state awards to the federal system.

They have been more than patient during 2011 while discussions took place between the CEO and the Union about an agreement.

Consultations to date have produced a commitment from the employer to enter into an enterprise agreement to be in place from the beginning of 2012. However, there has been no bargaining about the detail of that EA. It is this lack of specific commitment that precipitated the petition.

Since the petition and a threat by the IEU to ask FWA to order that the employer bargain in good faith, there have been further discussions between the parties and a commitment from the CEO that they will provide a draft agreement for negotiation in the week beginning 1 November. Watch this space.

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on the ground

Backing a more equitable Australia “The Gonski Review recommendations will not affect the privileged few.”

Dick Shearman IEU G e n e r a l S e c r e ta r y

It seems a lot longer ago!

Despite fears of political instability, the Federal Government has been remarkably stable. The support of the Greens and both Tony Windsor and Rob Oakshott has ensured the Government has been able to advance its legislative agenda on all major issues, with the carbon pricing scheme being the government’s crowning achievement to date.

The Government’s determination to advance an agenda that in part is deeply unpopular is either a cause for celebration or concern depending upon whether we support the particulars of legislation.

Our Union welcomes a commitment, for example, to a cleaner energy future without necessarily endorsing every aspect of the Government’s carbon pricing scheme.

Demonisation condemned We unreservedly condemn both the Federal Government and the Opposition for their continued demonisation of those who arrive here by boat with a legitimate right to claim asylum.

The so-called ‘Malaysian solution’ in particular represents a shameful episode in the ALP’s political history.

As a Union, we have always supported government initiatives which seek to enhance a more equitable and tolerant Australia. We have never stood with those identified by Paul Keating as “the straighteners and punishers”.

It is also within this context, the advancement of a more fair, equitable and tolerant Australia that we have been actively engaged in the school funding review.

This school funding review, initiated by the Federal Government, is of itself, worthwhile. Education funding represents a very significant element of both state and federal Government expenditure.

It is appropriate for any government to review the extent to which this expenditure is adequate, fairly

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distributed and meets government objectives.

over an interpretation of existing ACTU education policy.

From the onset however, there has been limited attention given to the allocation of funds to the public sector.

We will only affiliate to a peak union body which respects the rights of every affiliate to determine policy which directly affects its members’ interests.

It is legitimate to ask how equitable funding arrangements are in the public sector and how effective the greater resources allocated to areas of disadvantage have been in improving educational outcomes.

Closed system What is certain is that the public sector, in all its constituent parts, reserves the exclusive right to determine a position on these issues. The public sector remains a closed system in relation to scrutiny as far as its key stakeholders are concerned.

The Gonski Review represents an opportunity to more closely examine funding arrangements for the public sector rather than simply accepting the argument that public education is a disadvantaged relative to the so-called ‘private sector’.

The position of our Union in relation to the public sector however has not changed.

The Union has been actively engaged in lobbying members of the Federal Government to ensure that any recommendations from the Gonski Review which negatively impact upon our members and the schools in which they work are rejected by the Government.

School viability What is at stake here is the continued viability of schools, including affordability and accessibility for parents wanting to provide their children with a non-government education. And it’s about the protection of job security, working conditions and salaries for employees.

Central to this is the continued indexation of funding directly linked to increases in government school costs.

As a Union, we have a long memory!

We know that our members worked with less pay, longer hours, less paid

leave, no paid maternity leave and less job security and superannuation than our colleagues in the public sector for decades.

The history of non-government education is not one of providing for privilege and advantage.

It is a history of struggling to meet the educational needs and aspirations of working class kids, and of a continued battle by staff and their Union for fair salaries and working conditions.

The high fee independent schools and their academically and socially selective cousins in the public sector may well have educated a number of High Court judges and premiers who rightly take pride in the education afforded to them at Fort Street State High School or Shore.

The Gonski Review recommendations will not affect the privileged few.

Any change to the funding arrangements in relation to indexation puts the gains for the less advantaged at risk.

This issue will be another challenge for the Federal Government. They will need all of our assistance to ensure they make the right choices.

We respect the right of the AEU and its state counterparts to determine what funding arrangements, including the allocation of those funds within and between schools, best suits the needs of their members and the communities they serve.

We expect no less from the AEU in relation to our Union’s right to advocate for our members and the communities they serve.

It has become increasingly tiresome to have our right to represent our members’ interests, as we choose to define them, depicted by some in the public sector as defending entrenched privilege.

It has become an issue for the trade union movement with our decision to disaffiliate from the ACTU

IEU General Secretary Dick Shearman delivers his report on backing a more equitable Australia, to the Union AGM on 22 October.

IEU AGM — Reflect, review, project p4

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t last year’s AGM, it was noted that the ALP had retained government at the federal level only with the support of the Greens and independents.

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Indexation of school funding p5 3

www.ieu.asn.au

First national EREA meet a success T

he inaugural national conference for IEU reps and activists from Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) schools was a great success.

EREA is a relatively new body (established four years ago) providing a national umbrella organisation for Christian Brothers schools.

“The Union’s federal organising and campaigning committee felt it would be a good idea to bring reps and activists from around the country together, considering the EREA is establishing national policy and procedure for all Christian Brothers schools,” IEU Organiser Liam Griffiths said.

EREA has produced a charter document which sets out the main philosophy of the organisation, and a series of touchstone documents

levels of funding to Christian Brothers schools, which traditionally serve more needy communities.

outlining traditions and cultures common to all schools.

However, the Union does not negotiate industrial arrangements with EREA.

During the next day’s forum, reps and activists from different states had a chance to find out what they had in common, and there were workshops on dealing with parental complaints as a chapter, building a school culture against bullying, consulting for change and securing appropriate government funding.

EREA is directly responsible for the employment of all principals and assistant principals in its schools.

Teachers and support staff remain employed by individual schools.

The conference, held at the Mercure Hotel in Sydney on 13 and 14 October, was to establish common ground among the reps and activists.

About 50 delegates attended – most were from NSW and Queensland, where the bulk of Christian Brothers schools are situated, but there were also a few from Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia.

The conference kicked off with a dinner addressed by IEU General Secretary Dick Shearman and EREA Executive Director Wayne Tinsey.

Both speakers discussed the traditionally close relationship between the Union and EREA, while Dick spoke of the need to preserve adequate

“There was a strong consensus that we should try and back this conference up with other events, now that the networks have been established,” Liam said.

IEU AGM - Reflect, review and project I

EU members from right across NSW/ACT attended the Union’s AGM on Saturday 22 October, where they reviewed activities throughout the year, got abreast of the latest campaigns, used their voting power, and enjoyed a guest appearance

by Transport Workers Union National Secretary Tony Sheldon.

Mr Sheldon outlined his vision for a more progressive Labor Party agenda and provided the kind of background detail to the Qantas dispute that seldom makes its way into the media. Outsourcing can save employers millions, but he detailed the real cost to communities. He also provided a snapshot of the transport industry, where there are about 300 deaths per year. This is about 20% above the national average, with one third of those being due to fatigue. Letting the markets decide the fate of workers is a recipe for dysfunctional communities, he said. “Democratisation by capitalism doesn’t work — it’s a farce. The challenge is to balance those with power with those who don’t have it.”

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Mandatory unionism David Basisty is an exchange teacher from Edmonton, Canada, but he took time out of his busy schedule to attend the AGM and see how things are done in Australia.

“The issues seem to be the same as back home, the funding for instance," David says.

However, there is one major difference — union membership is mandatory in Canada.

“When I first became a teacher 20 years go, I was apprehensive about having to pay money to a union every month. I thought I should have a choice.

“But over the years, I’ve realised the importance of having a voice and support."

Workers’ paradise Staying in touch ACT Delegate and Rep at St John the Apostle Primary Florey, Sue Ferguson loves to network with members from all over the ACT and NSW at the AGM. “It’s a great way to get an update on all the issues,” Susan says.

Also from the ACT, but a new Rep at Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School Harrison, Anne Leet has enjoyed attending the Union’s conferences and“sharing those resources with her school”.

“I was really impressed with the speaker [Tony Sheldon] today. It was informative to learn about the inequity in big business.”

Young voices Ralph Hunt is The Armidale School Rep and North West Branch President. He’s been a member for 30 years and is keen to see young members come to the AGM and other activities.

“It’s important they have a voice — we need to know what their issues and aspirations are.

“The AGM is good because you get to meet a whole range of people from a whole range of schools.”

When Paul Ryan travels overseas he enjoys telling people he is on long service leave.

“They say, ‘what’s that’ and when I tell them about that and the other conditions we have, they think Australia is a workers’ paradise,” Paul says.

“It makes me appreciate the conditions we have and I realise people in other countries are toppling their leaders and shooting people to get a tenth of what we enjoy.

“Our quality of life has been fought for over generations and this is what the Union had done for us.”

Paul has been a Union stalwart for many years, having joined in 1976.

He’s been Rep at St Andrew's College Marayong for 12 years and Cumberland Branch President for eight.

Paul loves attending the AGM, not only to witness one of Dick Shearman’s “command performances” but also to connect with other people and find out what’s happening‘’in the engine room’’.

“It’s mainly to be inspired by the leadership, that’s how you get a charge from a day like today.”

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www.ieu.asn.au

Removal of indexation would hit hard in Garrett's electorate I

f the Federal Government abandons indexation of school funding based on movements in government school costs and moves to index schools by the CPI, schools in Education Minister Peter Garrett’s own electorate would feel the pain.

The Greens and many others in the public sector lobby support the removal of indexing funding on the basis of costs, instead using the CPI. However, the IEU says indexation based on inflation, instead of average government school recurrent costs (AGSRC), would be an ineffective and inequitable measure.

The negative impact of such a move is well illustrated in the table below, which uses a snapshot of schools in Peter Garrett’s own electorate of KingsfordSmith to show how they would have fared in 2011 under his preferred model.

School Name (Kingsford Smith electorate)

Funding requirements for a fair system 1) A resource benchmark of funding for each student, which underpins the school funding system and properly acknowledges the right for a decent education for all students.

2) A complete overhaul of the funding of education for students with special learning needs or disabilities, where full funding should be met for these students.

3) Indexation based on Average Government School Recurrent Costs (AGSRC) not inflation.

4) No decrease of funding in real terms for any school.

Education Minister Peter Garrett with NSW/ACT IEU General Secretary Dick Shearman and IEUA Secretary Chris Watt.

Actual Estimated Difference Difference Total Funding Total Funding 2011 per student 2011 2011 (AGSRC) (CPI)

Marcellin College

$6,251,229.41

$5,522,668.86

$728,560.55 $782.39

Marist College Pagewood

$3,432,402.92

$3,032,367.47

$400,035.45 $782.39

$867,049.50

$722,345.17

$144,704.33 $909.52

Our Lady of the Annunciation School Our Lady of the Rosary School

$2,000,590.01

$1,666,705.92

$333,884.09 $909.52

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Regional

$5,418,806.25

$4,787,261.92

$631,544.33 $782.39

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School

$2,294,874.57

$1,911,876.50

$382,998.06 $909.52

$806,012.70

$671,494.98

$134,517.72 $909.52

St Agnes’ School

$988,578.12

$823,591.54

$164,986.58 $909.52

St Andrew’s School

St Aidan’s Primary School

$1,705,760.48

$1,421,081.32

$284,679.16 $909.52

St Bernard’s School

$916,641.89

$763,660.95

$152,980.94 $909.52

St Michael’s School

$928,086.29

$773,195.37

$154,890.93 $909.52

St Therese’s School

$3,156,474.35

$2,629,681.48

$526,792.87 $909.52

$922,636.58

$768,655.17

$153,981.41 $909.52

St Mary and St Joseph Primary School

St Brigid’s Primary School

$1,494,856.55

$1,245,375.74

$249,480.81 $909.52

Claremont College

$1,067,930.61

$889,700.67

$178,229.94 $485.51

$418,037.67

$348,270.19

$69,767.48 $485.51

Coogee Boys’ Preparatory School Mount Sinai College

$910,059.57

$758,177.17

$151,882.40 $504.93

The Emanuel School

$1,820,217.90

$1,569,385.73

$250,832.16 $355.34

St Spyridon College

$3,162,056.42

$2,720,290.82

$441,765.60 $695.26

$310,285.22

$269,235.54

$41,049.68 $1,031.40

$1,230,640.33

$1,045,500.95

$185,139.38 $446.12

The Joseph Varga School The French School of Sydney

$5,762,703.86

Albanese made aware of indexing need

Pictured left to right: Ann-Maree McEwan, IEU; Michael Moore, Christian Brothers Lewisham; Marcella Healy, Christian Brothers Lewisham; Kendall Warren, IEU; Anthony Albanese, MP; Kevin Boyce, Casimir College.

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hen IEU staff and members visited Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese, he was presented with a table showing how schools in his electorate, Grayndler, would fare under a move away from indexing.

IEU Organiser Ann-Maree McEwan said the Minister was receptive and interested, and showed good awareness of the economic situation of families attending the three IEU members’ schools. The Minister spoke of his own Catholic education and his time at St Mary’s Cathedral School, Sydney.

The Minister was made aware of the need for ongoing indexation of school funding and said he believed in funding according to need, regardless of whether schools were public or private. He agreed to meet again with the Union once the Gonski report was released.

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www.ieu.asn.au

rep spotlight

Duo welcomes timely support Christian schools IEU rep training

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n overnight training event for IEU reps in Christian schools last term provided valuable guidance for Maitland Christian Community School’s new Rep team, Chad Kentwell and David Milford.

Chad and David recently took on the role when former Rep Paul Haines decided it was time to pass the baton, and so the training was perfectly timed.

“It was a good, practical reminder of how meetings operate and what has been achieved, plus it was great to be surrounded by others in Christian schools sharing the same interests, burden and willingness,” David says.

The event, held at a local vineyard, also delivered a big-picture look at the national industrial relations system and provided an opportunity to study their workplace agreement in-depth.

“We got to compare aspects of our agreement with similar items in Catholic and AIS agreements and this gave us a bit of perspective regarding where we are positioned, for instance with parental and other leave,” Chad says.

“Our agreement spans 2011-2012 so, looking ahead, we saw areas where we could discuss a few differences and where our agreement could be brought into line with others if conditions are better.”

Both Reps are teachers at the K-12 school and are planning for David to

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Present tense

“In a K-12 school there are many issues that impact everyone, plus sharing the role will come in handy if either of us takes extended leave,” David says.

Attending the rep training event also brought home the educative role they will both fulfill.

“Membership is not just handy if one finds oneself in a spot of bother,” Chad says. “We’ll be making sure others are aware of what else the Union provides, like professional development opportunities and a range of other benefits.”

“Previously we have included Christian reps with other non-government schools but as there is a separate agreement in the sector we felt this was important.

“For me, the highlight of the training was the dinner when all in attendance had the opportunity to talk about their chapter and what they could bring to the school to enhance Union membership.We were able to identify barriers and develop strategies to address these in a very informal environment.”

For more information on IEU rep training events, see the professional development calendar on page 16.

“Membership is not just handy if one finds oneself in a spot of bother. We’ll be making sure others are aware of what else the Union provides, like professionaldevelopment opportunities and a range of other benefits.”

When Chad and David approached School Principal and fellow IEU member Garry Couper about the training event, he didn’t hesitate in supporting their decision to attend.

“We are always happy for staff at the school to get training in areas relating to their responsibilities,” Gary says. “A good Union presence means that if employers are following fair and just practices, the Union can confirm to employees that this is occurring.”

IEU Organiser Therese Fitzgibbon said the decision to run reps training exclusively for the Christian sector was “a new idea” for the Union.

Left to right: Garry Couper (Principal), David Milford (secondary Rep), and Chad Kentwell (Primary Rep)

ELICOS NEWS

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n September, the Knight review into the Student Visa Program was finally released, and the Federal Government has agreed in principle to all of its recommendations. Many of these changes will be of great benefit to the international student sector, which has suffered from a precipitous decline in student numbers over the last two years.

While the bulk of the reforms will mainly benefit those pursuing university studies, there will be some improvements for ELICOS. These changes include reductions in financial requirements, a streamlined visa process for some students, the removal of some English language test requirements, the possibility of school study for up to 50

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oversee secondary issues, Chad to oversee primary issues and to both work together on anything affecting the whole school.

weeks, and part-time study rights for student guardians.

Of course, changes in the visa program will not by themselves remove all of the challenges facing the international student market in Australia, and as long as the dollar continues its recent historic highs, there will not be any quick return to the boom conditions of 2009 and before. That said, these changes are welcome and will ease some of the pressure on private colleges. n On 22 November, the IEU will hold its annual seminar for those working in the private college sector. The seminar will look at the Modern Award, transitional salaries, enterprise agreement making, and the implications for the sector

of the new national Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation. Members can expect to receive a letter in the next few weeks outlining the details of the seminar, and you are encouraged to attend. n n The Union has become increasingly aware in recent months that many colleges have not been paying superannuation to their employees.

All employers are required under the Superannuation Guarantee Act to contribute an additional 9% of an employee’s salary to the superannuation fund of the employee’s choice. This is not optional, and the employer must pay this amount quarterly, within four weeks. This means that your fund should have received your contribution

by 28 October, 28 January, 28 April and 28 July each year.

If you have not received your super by that date, your employer is breaking the law. Unfortunately, due to a technicality in the Act, the IEU is not able to pursue any unpaid amounts, as we would with unpaid wages. If you have not been paid your super, the only way to chase it up is through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). If you are owed super, you should contact the ATO without delay. n n n If there are any matters that you would like to have discussed in this column, or if you would like an officer from the Union to meet with you and your colleagues, contact me on kendall@ieu.asn.au.

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on the ground

Membership pays, literally, for Pal College staff

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he IEU has secured more than $150,000 in entitlements and redundancy pay for members at Pal College in Cabramatta.

When the small but growing nongovernment high school started rolling out redundancies, IEU members at the school quickly turned to their Union.

Fifteen out of the 20 staff had already formed an active IEU Chapter at the school and regularly invited their Union Organiser David Towson to attend meetings.

It was this that made the difference when it came time to negotiate on their behalf, David says.

“As a result of their active membership, the Chapter was able to ensure that Pal College had a registered Union-negotiated agreement. Without this multi-enterprise agreement (MEA), the teachers would not have been aware of their entitlements and the Union would not have had the same capacity to negotiate on behalf of its members,” he says.

Under the MEA the College was obliged to consult with the IEU on the redundancy process.

When the school breached the process, the Union initiated proceedings with Fair Work Australia, at which the

New recruits share passion for social justice

“In the rare and disappointing circumstances of the closure of a school, the Union was able to ensure that its members’entitlements were fully paid.”

“There has to be more to life than working a 9-5 job, billing people every six minutes.”

employer insisted, without providing appropriate evidence, that the school was bankrupt.

David says the win, albeit in difficult circumstances, provided a clear message about the importance of strong membership density and active workplace chapters.

“Active membership at Pal College ensured that staff had an enforceable Union-negotiated Agreement. The Chapter, working with officers of the Union, ensured that the Agreement was honoured.

“In the rare and disappointing circumstances of the closure of a school, the Union was able to ensure that its members’ entitlements were fully paid.”

Accolade for long serving Rep

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he IEU’s new legal eagles Stan Koulouris and Amanda Hioe have an impressive track record when it comes to sticking up for the underdog.

always emphasised the importance of education for your future.

Both eschewed the lucrative world of large law firms to pursue work that would provide them with more personal satisfaction.

Stan, also a new Industrial Officer, has extensive experience in the union movement.

Amanda’s position as Industrial Officer is her first job since graduating law school, but she has a long history of volunteering.

Amanda was part of the ASPIRE program at the University of NSW. “We went out to disadvantaged high schools where only a few students go onto tertiary education, and we would encourage and inspire them to go to university,” Amanda says.

Amanda was also a coordinator for Shack Tutoring, providing free tutoring for high school students and she ran Mosaic Fusion Forums, encouraging UNSW students to explore multiculturalism.

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hen Bede Polding College in South Windsor first opened its doors 25 years ago Michael McCarney was one of the founding staff members. He was keen to work in a developing school, witnessing the culture of his workplace evolve.

Within a few years Mike had taken on the role of IEU Representative, a position he held for more than 15 years until his retirement from teaching at the end of Term 3.

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To mark his service as Union Rep, his colleagues arranged for the IEU to make a small presentation to him at morning tea in his final week.

IEU Assistant Secretary John Quessy presented Mike with a Certificate of Appreciation and spoke warmly of how well regarded Mike was with his colleagues and how Mike had witnessed the growth of the Union during his time as Rep.

As part of a Social Justice Internship at uni, she spent a semester working in the National Children and Youth Law Centre and she was also a Student Law Clerk for the Employment Law Clinic at the Kingsford Legal Centre.

“I thought employment law was interesting, so when a position came up that revolved around education I thought ‘there you go’.”

Although she was born in Australia, Amanda spent most of her childhood in Indonesia, and returned to study at Casimir Catholic College, Marrickville in 1998.

“I came from a non-English speaking background and my parents didn’t really have much education, but they

“I managed to get where I wanted to be due to education, so I encourage others to aspire to that.”

He graduated from law school in 2003, although he had previously taken a degree in biotechnology and worked in that field for a few years.

The change of direction was due to “a passion for politics”.

“I’ve always been socially conscious and the trade union movement is a major political forum.”

After his law degree he took a job as an organiser for the CFMEU for about seven months, then worked as industrial officer with the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union (now known as United Voice), followed by another industrial officer position at the Australian Services Union.

“I wanted to apply my knowledge from university in a constructive manner.

“There has to be more to life than working a 9-5 job, billing people every six minutes.

“There are sacrifices in working for a trade union — you don’t get the spectrum of cases you would in a large law firm — but the upshot is you’re working with people who don’t have the means to protect and uphold their own interests, and your role is to step into their shoes and do it for them, or with them.

“I think that is quite satisfying.”

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Newcastle office warming a chance to take stock S

ome familiar faces helped warm the launch of the IEU’s new office space in Newcastle, with longterm members Colleen Timoshenko and Bob Seymour among wellwishers at the event.

Having joined the then Assistant Masters and Mistresses Association in the late 1960s, Colleen recalls when term break would feature a week of compulsory day-long professional development sessions, and AMMA members would endeavor to slot in a meeting among these.

“After one meeting a gentleman stood up and said it was opportune to have the Union in Newcastle as so many lay teachers were starting to come in.”

This became the Hunter Valley Branch, which was the first regional branch of the Union.

“We knew that as individuals we couldn’t do anything but together we needed to unite to be heard and to get the sort of conditions we would like to see.”

Colleen remembers the work of Newcastle Branch Secretary Neville Keane in “keeping that branch going at the time”.

“He used to regularly meet with diocesan directors and talk through the issues, and sometimes the matters were difficult ones.”

Colleen was a member of the branch’s steering committee and vice president before becoming President of the

branch in the 1970s. When she started teaching, she and her colleagues were expected to clean the classrooms every day and polish the floors.

It was a time when teachers relied on a regular envelope from the nuns or brothers containing their pay, so long as the money was available. Colleen has actively contributed to securing many improvements during her years of membership.

“I’m now retired but I’ve maintained my membership, and it remains important to me.

“Teachers’ and support staff conditions were brought about by the hard work of members. We fought and fought to improve job security and conditions – and this cuts across everyone who works in a school.

“People need to be proactive in their Union — you need to participate and not sit back.”

Long-term member Bob Seymour also recalls a time before there was a Union to call upon for support.

“When I first started teaching, females were paid less than males and, with lay teachers being employed more and more, job security was a major issue,” Bob says.

“Equal pay was one of our first major focuses and we succeeded.

“Also pivotal for me was a campaign during the 1980s in response to teachers leaving for better paid industry jobs.

During that campaign, some of us did things we had never done before, like go on strike. We had to get recognition for the work of teachers so we could attract and retain quality applicants. We won a significant pay rise thanks to our actions, which were fairly widespread.”

“The Hunter Valley Branch of the IEU has a rich history and the gathering of guests and activists was memorable.”

Colleen Timoshenko

The inclusion of support staff in the Union is another, more recent milestone, that Bob remembers well.

“The Union is now able to work for acknowledgement and recognition for the enormous effort and contribution of support staff in schools.”

Bob says the opening of the new Newcastle office space was a great opportunity to acknowledge the positive role of the IEU in improving the work arrangements of education professionals in the area.

Dick Shearman

Then and now The initial meeting at St Pius High School Adamstown was held on the 25 February 1972 and by the end of 1972 the branch could boast of 72 members. The Newcastle office now (pictured) services schools from Wyong in the south to Macksville in the north and Merriwa in the west.

Newcastle-based IEU Organiser Mark Northam agrees: “The Hunter Valley Branch of the IEU has a rich history and the gathering of guests and activists was memorable,” he says.

“The opportunity for younger members to hear of early struggles was a invaluable.

“This building is constructed on the endeavours of many past and current members.”

North West women want workplace equity W

orking conditions, career development and balancing work and family were the focus for this year’s North West Branch women’s forum.

Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency.

The forum was opened by IEU President Christine Wilkinson and addressed by the Union’s Women in Education Committee Convenor Pam Smith, who emphasised the IEU’s commitment to supporting women in rural and regional areas.

A highlight of the Tamworth gathering was a presentation by Suzanne Fern, Principal of St Mary’s Primary School in Armidale, who shared her own personal and professional leadership journey.

An update was presented to the forum on the role and operation of the Armidale Diocese’s Equal Opportunity Committee, including its most recent report to the Federal Government’s

8

As an example from the independent schools sector, a copy of The Armidale School’s EOWA report was presented.

Suzanne outlined how she managed work and family and the support she has received in reaching principalship.

of leadership, through professional development and extension or considering promotion opportunities.

The forum expressed appreciation to IEU Executive members Denise McHugh and Ralph Hunt, and Organiser Peter Bishop, for their efforts in convening these gatherings, held each year in Term 3 in Armidale or Tamworth.

Issues raised at the Tamworth forum will be followed up with the Armidale CSO and other employers as appropriate.

Forthcoming regional women’s events n 15 November Canberra n 23 November IEU’s Parramatta office

She invited participants to reflect on the leadership they exercise in various facets of their life, and how they may wish to pursue further aspects

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

on the ground

Sharing the load and the joy W

hen Newsmonth caught up with IEU member Teddie Dunstan he was walking in the park with his 15-month-old son, Hugo, enjoying the challenges and triumphs of his first day of a nineweek stint of parental leave.

St Monica’s Primary School Evatt Teacher Teddie, who took two weeks of paid parental leave following the birth of his son, is using annual leave to keep up an income this time. It is his first extended turn as primary carer but he’s feeling confident.

“Vanessa has already done a lot of the hard work, particularly during a Canberra winter as Hugo always wants to be outside.

“For me, this time is important because it means I get a chance to spend more time with Hugo, plus it’s vital to share the load.

“I think a lot of dads would like to do this if they had the opportunity.”

During his leave, Teddie is looking forward to “getting into a routine” with Hugo and ensuring the little man stays in touch with his contemporaries by continuing to meet with Vanessa’s mothers’ group.

He will also be regularly checking in on the house he and Vanessa are having built.

Meanwhile, IEU member Vanessa is enjoying her return to teaching at Good Shepherd Primary School, Amaroo.

“I can interact with colleagues again and not feel out of touch with what’s happening at the school. I’m enjoying the variety in every day: professional development, children, adults and my family life as well.”

Affinity with faith C

haplain and Studies of Religion Teacher and IEU member Philip Worrad thought he was “doing something any educationalist would do” when he started teaching his students about Islam. So winning the Australian Affinity Award came as a huge shock, writes IEU Journalist Sue Osborne.

Philip at first thought his award notification was a mistake.

He received the gong for his “outstanding efforts in shaping the views of many students from his school [Kinross Wolaroi] in the NSW town of Orange, to eradicate bigotry and foster harmony and respect”.

Affinity Intercultural Foundation is a Sydney-based organisation dedicated to the promotion of harmony and understanding between the Muslim and wider community.

“Kinross Woloroi is in an area where there are not a lot of Muslims, it’s a very monocultural school, that’s just the nature of our town and we can’t help that,” Philip says.

“My efforts were to try and address some of that lack of exposure to people who are different, and the Islamophobia NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

“I think a lot of dads would like to do this if they had the opportunity.”

Vanessa says she made the most of her Union membership when she and Teddie were planning their leave.

“When I was getting ready to go on maternity leave, I rang the Union as I was unsure of the entitlements. I actually didn’t realise how good the conditions were. Our schools have been really supportive and I feel pretty privileged in this system — to be able to take this time and then come back when we are ready.

“I had the honour of being home with Hugo when he was very young and from the start Teddie was looking forward to having this time with him too.”

Vanessa and Teddie are not yet sure how they will arrange their work and family responsibilities next year but one is likely to return full-time while the other works part-time. And if they need advice along the way, the Union is just a phone call away.

“For people in Sydney a lot of the stuff we do may sound obvious but for kids in the bush it’s significant.”

being perpetrated by the media, in one way or another.

“For people in Sydney, a lot of the stuff we do may sound obvious but for kids in the bush it’s significant.”

Philip has been teaching Islam in the Year 11 and 12 elective religious studies course.

He organised an excursion to Auburn’s Gallipoli Mosque where students met Affinity members, followed by a trip to Turkey where students had a chance to meet moderate Muslims.

“They came away with a deeper understanding of the faith, and a realisation that Muslim young people have similar hopes and dreams and are part of a movement towards world peace and the harmonious existence of Abrahamic faiths.”

Affinity representatives also spoke at the school’s Harmony Day celebrations, “putting a human face on the ideology”.

Philip says many students were moved by the “sense of modesty and peace” and of “really having it together” exhibited by the female speaker.

Philip hopes to expand the school’s exposure to Islam and introduce contact with Judaism.

“We are a Uniting Church school so we have an interest in respect, tolerance and appreciation of others.

“Hopefully when the kids go off to multicultural universities in the city they will be better prepared to initiate conversation with people who are different and have a sense of respect for others.”

Helen Clarke of Knox Grammar School, a previous recipient, presents the Affinity Award to Philip.

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ecs

Local hero: supporting pay parity, children and families

Teachers are Teachers campaign update Petition We need 10,000 signatures on the Teachers are Teachers petition, to get pay parity debated by NSW Parliament.

A letter has been sent to IEU Reps in primary schools asking them to approach colleagues to support this important cause.

The gap is growing between the pay of many early childhood teachers and their counterparts in schools — it now stands at $18,000.

Petitions can be downloaded from the web at www.teachersareteachers.org.au Send the petition to IEU offices before 7 November.

Funding submissions – deadline extended We have had well over 100 submissions to the funding review sent in via the campaign website. But we still need more. This is the opportunity the profession has been waiting for to make itself heard. Members are urged to

put in a submission via the campaign site at www.teachersareteachers.org.au by 18 November.

There’s a template, but we are urging members to share stories from your individual service’s experiences of poor pay.

The IEU is also writing a submission for the review.

Tell us your story Are you a director finding it hard to staff your service? Are you a teacher considering the move to primary or even to another profession? We want to hear your stories. We want to tell them loud and clear so that we can share them. Watch out for the broadcast email which asks you to tell your story.

Facebook Don’t forget to ‘friend’ us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ teachersareteachers. It’s a great way to get campaign updates quickly.

Louise Murfett, Director of Jacaranda Primary School with children

L

ouise Murfett vividly recalls the days when early childhood teachers were paid the same as their primary school counterparts writes IEU Journalist Suzanne Kowalski-Roth.

She moved from a childcare certificate worker’s salary when she graduated from university in the early 1990s to the pay of a teacher.

Spot the difference…

The difference was significant.

“Every time the DET teachers got a rise, we’d get one as well. I felt vindicated doing all that work at university because my salary had moved quite significantly,” Louise says.

Now Director of Jacaranda Preschool in Caringbah, a position she’s held and cherished for 19 years, she’s seeing the repercussions of a salary gap of up to $18,000 between early childhood teachers and their school teacher colleagues.

DET Preschool Teacher

Community-based Preschool Teacher

$84,000 $66,000 annual salary

HIN T!

*

annual salary

How is this fair? Teachers working in community-based preschools and long day care centres should have pay parity with other teachers. Add your name to the petition to demand that the State Government fund children’s services to enable them to pay their teachers equitably. Your child’s teacher deserves to be paid the same as all other teachers.

*Teachers wages vary in individual children’s services.

Authorised by Dick Shearman, General Secretary, NSW/ACT Independent Education Union, 176-182 Day St, Sydney NSW 2000

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One staff member is undertaking a teaching degree. She initially focused on early childhood but has since changed her major to primary teaching after realising the pay difference.

“I also had a staff member who left last year to go somewhere else because she could get paid a bit better than what we could afford to pay,” Louise says.

While Louise has no regrets about her career path: “I love early childhood – I just get such a buzz out of it.”

But she’s concerned about the changes the profession has undergone, particularly the introduction of the child care benefit and associated growth of investment in child care where some unscrupulous operators put the dollar above children’s needs.

Top of Louise’s wishlist for early childhood is her desire for the government to fund the profession adequately so that it is about what is best for children.

“Parents shouldn’t have to worry about whether they can afford early childhood education for their children — the government should resource it appropriately so affordability is not an issue for anyone and teachers are paid properly.

“Centres are struggling and fundraising to do up their playground or put on additional staff members because there’s a child with additional needs attending the service, and the funding will only cover three hours, not the six or eight hours the child is actually at the service.

“It’s really sad with all the brain research showing how important teachers are in early childhood and the government recognising that teachers are needed, but we are still not being recognised in a fiscal way.”

Louise urges her early childhood teaching colleagues to stand up and be counted in the IEU’s pay parity campaign. It’s a call to be heroic — for teachers and for the benefit of NSW children and families.

“If we don’t fight for what we want we won’t get it and neither will the families of NSW. They will always be paying more and more for early childhood until we are able to pay our teachers properly and it’s funded by the NSW Government.”

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

features

support staff conference Living in exponential times L

et’s Get Connected, the IEU’s 2011 support staff conference, explored the pluses and minuses of the digital age.

“It would be foolish in an age of such massive technological change to imagine we know what is going to happen next.”

Conference Organiser Carolyn Moore said she had considered whether it was the Union’s role to provide professional development (PD) on technology while contemplating the conference.

John said an essential issue was the impact of technology on privacy: “Some would argue privacy is finished”.

“Surely it’s the employer’s obligation to ensure their staff are up-to-date with tools provided at work,” Carolyn said.

“But it became apparent to me technology is not just something for work … at all levels in life we need to be able to interact and engage with technology.”

“Another issue is that we are now expected to respond to work instantaneously — if people don’t get an answer to an email immediately they feel duded.

“We are at risk of security breaches … employers can find out where we are using our mobile phones.

Carolyn said she organised the conference to provide members with the skills and experience to improve their confidence.

“There are changes in the way we measure work — we’re moving towards measuring work by tasks instead of time, and what that can mean is when you finish a task, your employer gives you another straight away.

IEU Assistant Secretary John Quessy highlighted some of the emerging industrial issues arising out of the digital workplace.

“Technology allows for flexibility.

You can know do many of your tasks without getting out of bed, but there’s a social side of work that is beneficial.”

He compared the changes in the workplace in recent years to the industrial revolution, saying such massive changes do not always result in equality for everybody.

John said the increased skill set now required of all school support staff was not reflected in their remuneration.

“It would be foolish in an age of such massive technological change to imagine we know what is going to happen next.”

Carolyn Moore

entertained the audience with his lively and wide-ranging talk incorporating music, video, app demonstrations and photos.

He spoke on emerging trends and the impact of new technologies.

John Quessy

New applications such as the cloud, interactive screens and tables, ebooks and games-based learning were likely to have a big impact on schools in the future.

He emphasised the importance of relationships in a world where connections are now exponential instead of linear, and therefore the potential to link with people is so much greater.

“But we cannot replace relationships with technology.”

Doug Ashleigh

Keynote speaker Doug Ashleigh

Digital window on ancient culture F or Aboriginal Education Worker Vincent Cooper new technology is providing a crucial link to his students’ heritage at St Joseph’s High, Aberdeen.

“A lot of students put their hands up and identify as Aboriginal but they don’t know how to find out about it.

“The easy way is to go online to get to know your mob. We start by looking at the Australian map and tracing the history from that.

“Because of the stolen generation, a lot of us have lost our stories and connections.

“Generation Y don’t know their stories and we have to find alternative ways for them to identify as Aboriginal students.”

Technology was promoting a two-way relationship between Vincent and his students.

“They teach me about ‘apps’ because they are so into it, so I learn from them.

“They’re usually trying to hide their phones in class so I say ‘get your phones out, let’s use them as a tool for learning’.”

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

Vincent attended the conference “because you’re never too old to learn and it’s great to come together and make new friends”.

technology had often given her a sense of being left behind, but meeting other support staff had made her feel less alone.

But he also to helped with the organisation, as he is a member of the IEU’s Support Staff Advisory Committee, and he presented the Welcome to Country.

John Quessy had also articulated many of her feeling in his speech, she said.

Natalie Harkins of Brigidine College, Randwick has worked in the school’s front office for five years and has recently taken on the role of support staff Rep. She has experienced big changes due to technology in her work over the past five years, with the introduction of the SAS electronic payment software, and a new system to log absentees.

“I’ve enjoyed getting to know how younger and older people are viewing technology at the conference, and it’s been great talking to members who come from so far away.”

“I’ve got a lot of information to take back.

Vincent Cooper

Maureen Smith

“I’m not exposed to a lot of training in the workplace and after coming here today I feel a lot more comfortable.

“We’re all in it together and it’s great the Union is providing support.

“As support staff, we’re multi-tasking, being the accounts clerk, first aid officer and like John said, the remuneration doesn’t reflect the role.

“I would recommend any support staff to attend a Union event like this.”

Video: Watch video from the Conference on the Union’s own YouTube Channel: www. youtube.com/user/ieunswact

The conference proved a reaffirming experience for Maureen Smith of St Joseph’s Primary, Peak Hill.

Maureen says rapidly changing

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Environment conference

Growing Education for Sustainability Conference shakes, rattles and inspires

"You want to get kids out into the garden and give it a crack.”

I

nspiration and energy were in plentiful supply at the IEU Growing Education for Sustainability Conference, with SBS gardening guru Costa Georgiadis declaring he wanted to “rattle the cages” of participants.

Delivering his keynote immediately after a powerful performance and Acknowledgement of Country by Dhinawan Dreaming, Costa said he’d been left “rattled, in a good way”, wanted to shake the cages of participants and to “sprinkle some inspiration dust”.

Well stocked with slides and tools to help demonstrate how to create no dig and no waste gardens, Costa urged teachers not to get bogged down with the ‘how tos’ but to just have a go.

“You want to get kids out into the garden and give it a crack,” he said.

“Just get one recipe – don’t get frozen with all the choice on the internet – and do it. And I hope you stuff it up because if you put the green end of the shoot in first it’s going to die and then you’ll learn.”

Performing a headstand to demonstrate how a shoot would want

for food if not inserted far enough into the soil, Costa said the success of a no dig garden was not dependent on how many layers it had but on how engaging the exercise was made for students.

“Put soul into it,” he said. “It’s only going to be as engaging as you make it and that’s the most important part. It’s also the bit that’s exciting.

“If you do this your kids will ‘come under the trance’ as they get their hands under the soil.”

He also advised educators to take lots of photos “from day zero” of all projects.

“It’s the most powerful vehicle for change, to help us face the realities with facts on a page. Think about what you are doing and where the focus is.”

Costa said some early results would help with momentum and said he was honoured to be speaking to a room full of educators.

“What you give to children is with them for life. I spend a lot of time in schools and I know that when you inspire someone it comes back. You are doing this every day as role models and elders to these kids.”

Wise words Michael Baker (Dhinawan) - Dhinawan Dreaming (top left)

More school bodies should take on an environmental approach – taking kids out of the classroom, getting their hands dirty and learning about the flora and fauna of our country. When students learn about Indigenous laws of the environment it’s a way of learning about the culture of the land.

Dick Shearman – IEU General Secretary ( top right)

From our perspective as a Union, sustainability fits into the more progressive agenda that the movement needs to adopt. Because it’s important to live in a sustainable, fair and equitable environment, we need to play a lead role in the community regarding this agenda. This applies to a range of issues, including education funding, mandatory detention and the way we treat asylum seekers.

Too many detrimental short-term decisions are made that don’t take equity into account.

Gloria Taylor – IEU Deputy Secretary (bottom right)

This year we’ve provided a strong focus on outdoor sustainability activities in response to popular demand from members. The Conference is designed to help educators get the most out of the day, to feed back to students who are living with the environmental challenges we’re passing on.

Christine Wilkinson – IEU President (bottom left)

I knew Costa was going to give a great presentation. As soon as I shook his hand in the morning I felt energised.

Costa Georgiadis – SBS gardener (pictured bottom far left and with Christine and Gloria)

There is a wonderful movement of change at the moment and people are hungry for information on self-management. This starts with survival, which begins with food. We need to inspire kids and get everyone growing, connecting and understanding where they fit into the natural system.

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feature Virginia Mason – St Catherine of Siena Primary School, Prestons I’ve been asked to look at how we can get our school involved in sustainability.

I’m here for ideas about where to get started. I was in a networking workshop and I think this is a very important aspect.

Just after speaking briefly with some people I’ve got ideas about what I can be doing and ways to approach it.

Maria Marks - St Patrick’s, Blacktown (left) We run a kitchen garden at our school which is basically focussed on oral language. We have found today to be especially informative, particularly Costa’s presentation, and we have already implemented some of it. But there were so many great ideas that would not cost very much and would be easy to use.

Nancy McGavin - St Patrick’s, Blacktown

Some of the children participating in our program have started composting at home. After hearing from Costa we are thinking of getting together a whole day’s worth of waste from school to show the children how we could be composting and recycling more.

Craig Gaymer – St John the Evangelist High School, Nowra It’s my first year at this school.

I haven’t had a lot of involvement here but I have at other schools.

Sustainability is an area of particular interest I’m looking forward to leaping into and the school administration is very supportive. There are already good things happening in the agriculture department. I can see the benefit of gathering students who already have a passion around these issues to empower them to think about how they can make a difference themselves and among their peers.

Student panel members, clockwise from left: Hannah Bevan and Melany Toombs, Abbotsleigh; Chris Rothery and James Tracey, Riverview; Adline Goveas and Stephen Geargeflia, All Saints Catholic Primary, Liverpool.

Szilvia Csanyi – Cool Australia, www.coolaustralia.org Cool Australia is a non-profit organisation providing free online resources and classroom activities for teachers in the area of sustainability. There have been some great speakers today who have given me some ideas to take back to my organisation. It’s also been great for networking, as it is so important to get teachers together so they can share ideas.

Chris: It’s important to be sustainable in order for the human race to survive.

We’ve adapted in the past but now we’re adapting the earth to suit us. It is a challenge to change back.

James: The major change for us will be from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

Melany: Development is happening so quickly. It’s a major challenge to get big companies to focus on their impact.

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

Hannah: It is so important to act now to change our unsustainable practices rather than thinking we can leave it until later.

Adline: This is about all of our lives. All of us need to be taking care of mother nature.

Stephen: We should all be trying to reduce our use of fossil fuels.

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Race Day roaring success M

ore than 350 IEU members, guests and sponsors enjoyed a rip-roaring day at Canterbury Races once again this year, despite the persistent drizzle.

Even those who didn’t get lucky, enjoyed the opportunity to dress up, sample some good food and drink and have fun with their colleagues.

There were seven races on the day, including the featured Good Faith Bargaining Cup, won by Secession, owned by Sheik Mohammed.

Members from St Francis of Assisi Glendenning, Trinity Catholic College Auburn and Regents Park, and St Gabriel’s Primary Bexley (who were also celebrating their feast day) took part in the presentation of the IEU Cup. Other sponsored races were: Gow Gates Insurance, SGE Credit Union, Chifley Finance Services, NGS Super, Teachers Eye Care and New Law. Daniel Ronchetti, of Trinity Catholic College Auburn, won the best dressed man award and Lisa Muller of Marist College Eastwood won the best dressed woman. Both received Gucci sunglasses donated by Teachers Eye Care.

Lisa said she “just picked out whatever was in her wardrobe” while Ancient History Teacher Daniel said he “had a nice girlfriend who picked out the hat”.

Daniel and Lisa (pictured) both said they enjoyed the opportunity to have fun with their colleagues outside the professional environment.

Race day regular Tom Dyson (pictured), a colleague of Lisa’s, is famed for his loud suits and didn’t disappoint this year with green ensemble.

“Last year I had all black with a gold coat that resembles your grandmother’s lounge suite,” Tom said.

Ready to sash a winner

“The year before I had a pink/Marist cerise suit and this year it’s nearly time for the Granny Smith Festival at Eastwood, so it’s apple green “I had the suits made in Vietnam, and wouldn’t get a chance to wear them if it wasn’t for race day, although I did wear a bright orange one to the Year 10 formal once.”

Tom said Marist Eastwood had their biggest party ever for race day this year, with 15 joining the fun Apart from best dressed man and woman, there were a number of spot prizes for brightest hat, best shoes and others.

Winning the fashion stakes

Guests included employers, Union officials and also Canterbury MP Linda Burney.

IEU staffers in form

Delightful duo

Tom and friends Beautiful in brown

Painting it red

Catching up with colleagues 14

Top hat NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

overview

Term 4 IEU PD and Training Calendar Key: n NSW Teachers Institute registered course PIP: Pedagogy in the Pub WHS (OHS) Seminars: Work Health and Safety legislation implementation program for NSW Non-Government Schools WHS for ECS Seminar: You, Your centre and WHS

Save the date We Connect - Educators Online Conference Friday, 2 March, 2012 8.30am to 3.30pm Mercure Hotel, Sydney Cyber savvy school communities

Wk 5: 7 Nov – 11 Nov 10 Nov: WHS (OHS) Through the Maze, Erina 10 Nov: PIP Cyber Savvy, Concord

Best practice use of tech resources

11 Nov: WHS (OHS) You and Your Centre, Erina

Wk 6: 14 Nov – 18 Nov

Safe use of social media

15 Nov: Women in Education Forum and Dinner, Canberra 17 Nov: PIP Conflict Resolution, Dapto 17 Nov: WHS (OHS) Through the Maze, Port Macquarie 18 Nov: WHS (OHS) You and Your Centre, Port Macquarie 18 Nov: Reps Training Catholic Systemic, Sydney

Technology for special needs Online breakthroughs with the IEU

Wk 7: 21 Nov – 25 Nov 22 Nov: ELICOS Seminar, Sydney

PD on the web

22 Nov: PIP Maintenance of Accreditation, Rooty Hill 23 Nov: Women in Education Forum and Dinner, Parramatta 23 Nov: PIP Cyber Savvy, Inverell

ICT innovators - panel session

24 Nov: PIP Conflict Resolution, Camden 24 Nov: WHS (OHS) Through the Maze, Newcastle

Institute registered workshops

25 Nov: WHS (OHS) You and Your Centre, Newcastle 25 Nov: Reps Training, Tamworth

Wk 8: 28 Nov – 2 Dec 1 Dec: Outdoor and Maintenance Staff Meeting/Dinner, Appin

For further info contact Iva Coric on 9779 3200 or email iva@ieu.asn.au

1 Dec: WHS (OHS) Through the Maze, Gymea 2 Dec: WHS (OHS) You and Your Centre, Gymea

Wk 9: 5 Dec – 9 Dec 8 Dec: WHS (OHS) Workshop, Canberra

Note: You must register for all courses.

Pedagogy in the Pub courses count for two hours of registered PD with the NSW Institute of Teachers for Elements 5, 6 and 7.

Through the maze of WHS Work Health and Safety Legislation Implementation Program for NSW Non-Government Schools

The dates included in this calendar may change for unforeseeable reasons.

Contact your IEU Organiser on 9779 3200 (1800 467 943) or email Franca (franca@ieu.asn.au) to register and to get updated information on venues and dates.

For further information contact Iva Coric on 9779 3200 , toll free 1800 467 943 or iva@ieu.asn.au

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

IEU Seminar Series for IEU Reps OHS Committee Members Health & Safety Rep Middle Mangement in Catholic and Independent schools

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{

Labour Bites

Opinion

The IEU website (www.ieu.asn.au) carries regular updates of local and international news with a trade union flavour. IEU Assistant Secretary John Quessy reproduces below some recent items.

Delayed retirement The Japanese Welfare Ministry has proposed that workers enrolled in the employee pension program begin receiving benefits as late as ages 68 to 70 instead of the current 60. “Society is aging at an extremely fast pace,” a government spokesman said and “in order not to crash the pension framework, delaying the age for receiving pension benefits is inevitable”.

According to Ministry statistics, the ratio of working age people to pensioners was above 40-to-1 in the late 1970s. But that number has plummeted below 2.50 since 2009, meaning there are fewer than 2.50 workers supporting a single retiree.

Increasing the age at which workers can access their pensions and thus retire can make it very difficult for the young to secure employment in a saturated labour market, say the critics.

(Source: The Japan Times)

Police to unionise Police in Malta are to be given the right to join a trade union, but they may not take strike action. The General Workers Union (GWU) said it had been calling on the government to amend the law so that policemen, soldiers, prison warders, civil protection officers and other workers in the forces could be given the right to join a union.

The Malta Police Association said it had received correspondence from the Home Affairs Minister and a motion to amend the Police Act has been moved in Parliament. (Source: Times of Malta)

Lower wages to save industry A novel wage agreement for South African textile workers will lower salaries for new recruits by 30%, in a bid to save the industry from cheaper Chinese competition.

Carbon tax for dummies

agreed to the cut and, in exchange, employers have promised to create 5000 new jobs within three years.

The deal is being closely watched by other industries in a nation where unemployment is officially around 25% but unofficially as high as 40%.

President Jacob Zuma has promised to create five million jobs by 2020, and his Government has already indicated that lower wages could be needed to reach that goal.

That’s raised the hackles of his allies in the labour movement, who generally have sought to push for better conditions for workers who already have jobs — which businesses say has discouraged the creation of new ones.

One analyst claims: “It is unfortunate for the people, but half a loaf of bread is better than no bread”. (Source: Times Live SA)

Join a union – lose benefits Employees of Swazi Wire were stunned to receive a memorandum from management informing them that they stood to lose nine benefits and more if they joined a union.

Currently, the workers bargain through a works council but don’t feel it does enough for them.

The benefits to be forfeited include: salary advances, school fees loans and end-of-year bonuses. The memo advises them that “management will be happy to continue to provide these services, and even more if the works council continues to be the employees’ representative body for Swazi Wire employees.However,shouldemployees decide that they no longer want the works council to represent them and a union takes over, Swazi Wire will be forced to withdraw the above listed services”. (Source: Times of Swaziland)

Michael Bracken IEU o r g a n ise r

I

t would seem that the introduction of a price on carbon is not going to be the earth shattering experience predicted by the ‘shock’ jocks and other elements of the media.

Having heard the opposing views on the matter and, with a little research, I have prepared my explanation of the carbon tax and the effects it will have.

As with all complex topics, it is often easier to understand them if you break it down into smaller areas of enquiry. For me the pricing of carbon comes down to four questions: n What is a carbon tax? n Who will pay the carbon tax? n What will be the effect of a price on carbon on the economy? n What will be the effect of a price on carbon on individual households?

What is a carbon tax?

A carbon tax is simply a price paid for the privilege of polluting our environment. Up to this point polluting was free and polluters did not face any consequences for their actions.

The objective of the price on carbon is to get the polluters to amend or change their behaviour and commit to greener alternatives.

In doing so they would greatly help the environment and minimise their taxation liabilities under the scheme.

Who will pay the carbon tax?

Essentially the carbon tax will impact on 500 of Australia’s

companies who also happen to be among the biggest emitters of carbon pollution. From midway through next year, these companies will be levied a fee of $23 for every tonne of carbon pollution they emit into our skies. This price will rise moderately each year until 2015.

From 2015, a full emissions trading scheme will be in place and this will allow emitters to trade carbon permits in a market context.

What the Government is banking on is the effect the price will have on the practices of the emitters.

They hope that the cost will spur a move to alternatives that use less energy and a move to invest in renewable energy.

Effect of a price on carbon on the economy Before putting this legislation to Parliament, the Government had the Treasury prepare an economic model predicting the effects the carbon price would have on the economy.

This modeling indicated that average income growth would slow by 0.1 of a percentage point per year with the introduction of a carbon tax.

It is expected that employment will continue to grow with a predicted increase in national employment of 1.6 million jobs by 2020. However the modeling does acknowledge a negative impact on employment on 5% of the total economy.

Average incomes are expected to grow strongly with an increase of 16% by 2020 based on current average income statistics.

In relation to employment, the Government has outlined plans to encourage innovative investment in the most affected industries. This

Under the deal, the Southern African Clothing and Textile Workers’ Union

Join the IEU social circle

16

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Or watch the latest videos at our YouTube channel by searching 'ieunswact'

Comment, share your views and get engaged in your union.

www.ieu.asn.au NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

overview

“It’s the equivalent to two schooners at the local or a ham, cheese and salad sandwich.”

is aimed at reducing emissions and the development and deployment of new technologies that will meet environmental needs while securing employment in the industries.

The need for these new technologies should also have the effect of creating new jobs in clean energy industries. To assist in this job creation, the Government has committed to establishing a funding resource for those working on energy efficiency, renewable energy and low pollution technologies.

There are also a number of measures focused on improving energy efficiency in households and communities with $330 million dedicated to improving the energy efficiency of community and council buildings.

Effect of a price on carbon on households The initial introduction of the carbon price is expected to result in a 0.7% increase in the CPI. A second increase of 0.2% is expected when the full cap and trade system is introduced in 2015. To put this into perspective, the introduction of the GST saw an increase in the CPI of 2.5%.

The initial increase in the CPI equates to approximately $9.90 per week per household.

On the plus side, 50% of the revenue raised via the carbon tax will be used to assist households.

These measures, including tax cuts, an increase of the tax-free threshold and grants to affected regions and communities, are thought to be compensation for the most harshly affected.

Price tag on pollution – unionists’ key role “An enormous amount of fear mongering, fear campaigning and deliberate deceit has gone on … so we need to express the facts and get this information out.”

The big question: yes or no?

When you look at the whole climate science debate, I think the science weighs heavily in favour of acting on climate change now and not later. Sadly, the efforts, knowledge and expertise of scientists has been ignored and pilloried by those who would rather have a political argument than a rational discussion.

The economists tell us that everything has an opportunity cost.

That is, what you could have spent your money on if you didn’t have to pay a carbon tax. Like many of our members, I will not receive any form of compensation. That’s fair enough as the compensation should focus on lower income groups.

I will bear the $9.90 per week but what would I have bought with that ‘lazy blue swimmer’ if there was no carbon tax? To me it’s the equivalent to two schooners at the local or a ham, cheese and salad sandwich and a coffee at any café in town.

The way I see it, if I forgo those two schooners or the sandwich and coffee, I am acting to ensure that my grandchildren get to live on an incredible planet.

The other options put up by the Conservative parties ‘do nothing, ignore the science and enjoy the schooners'. Science is right in my view. We need to do something now and, besides, science also says I should drink less alcohol and cut back on the caffeine.

E

xplaining the carbon tax need not be difficult but thanks to a deliberate counter-campaign of misinformation, it is too large a job for Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency Greg Combet.

Addressing a packed auditorium of union members at a special meeting of Unions NSW affiliates in August, Mr Combet said he had visited numerous workplaces across industries, speaking with employers, workers, business leaders and a range of stakeholders about what a price on carbon meant for them.

He said science overwhelmingly confirmed industry’s impact on climate change and international efforts to put a price tag on pollution had “been around for a long time” and were “well argued and hard fought”.

However “an enormous amount of fear mongering, fear campaigning and deliberate deceit has gone on … so we need to express the facts and get this information out”.

The Minister said it was more than a two-person job.

“I can’t explain this myself and the Prime Minister can’t explain all of this herself,” Mr Combet said.

“Overwhelmingly scientific evidence shows pollution is contributing to atmospheric warming and is contributing to climate change. This scientific evidence has been around for quite some time.”

He said last year was the warmest year on record, and 2001 to 2010 was the warmest decade on record in Australia and around the globe.

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

“The same scientific advice about climate change is provided to governments around the world and all are approaching it in their own way," he said. “Some are doing a lot and some are doing not much.”

Europe has had an emissions trading scheme [ETS] since 2005 and New Zealand was expecting to link with Australia three years ago. South Korea is about to start emission trading after “investing hugely in renewables” and Asian nations now dominate renewable technologies, the Minister said. China is expected to start an ETS in five of its provinces in the next few years.

Mr Combet said Australia’s approach to an ETS model begins with a fixed price on carbon of $23 per tonne, with the nation to move to a full ETS on 1 July 2015.

From 2015, once Australia linked up with other nations doing ETS schemes, the price would be determined by supply and demand and all would develop the same carbon price, he said.

With this in mind, putting a price on carbon and participating internationally in credible emissions trading schemes would enable the nation to achieve its 2020 target of 5% [of 1990 levels] at a cheaper level. “This will cut pollution,” he said.

The Minister urged unions to educate their members and empower them to share their knowledge of emissions trading and climate change, to help counter confusion.

For more information visit www.climatechange.gov.au

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www.ieu.asn.au

IT Wizard iWant: the quest for ethical

By Daniel Long

L

ooking to make your next smart phone, tablet or laptop purchase an ethical one? While locating such a device would be a major – some say impossible – achievement, there is something we can do.

Given the media saturation and attention to everything Apple in recent years, the death of Steve Jobs was a major news event; a whirlwind of online eulogies were directed at the man they called visionary, genius, inventor and innovator.

However, there does need to be some perspective in the global role of this market-leading company, which is often accused of turning a blind eye on the ethics front.

And while it may be all too easy to list the wrongs of Apple, many of the same criticisms can be levelled at other corporate giants too.

For those seeking up-to-date data on the practices of those producing your favourite gadgets, a good place to start is with Ethisphere.com. The website keeps an annual tab on the world’s most ethical companies. Notably absent from the 2010 list of 110 companies is Apple. Microsoft is there, but not Apple.

So what’s going on here?

This might give you a hint: in September this year, Apple removed a game from its App Store that criticised the questionable ethical practices in the manufacture of devices such as the iPhone. The game’s funding model was just as

{ Shorts n Free Small Steps seminars are available courtesy of NSW Health help primary school teachers, principals, support staff and parents identify anxiety disorders in children. The seminars are held at school and run from one to one and a half hours, with seminars for staff and parents available. http://www.mentalhealth.asn.au/ be-informed/small-steps-seminars. html n n Do you know what a PCBU is?

Or that some volunteers now have the same responsibilities as a worker? New Work Health & Safety laws are due

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purchases in a world of inequality

contentious: 70% of all app sales were to be channelled into organisations that advocate for better corporate ethics.

Furthermore, a New York Times article last year detailed how outsourced Foxconn workers in Shenzen, Southern China, were physically harmed, exploited and poorly paid for their long and dangerous hours on the factory floor. The UK’s Daily Mail described workers earning less than $100 a month and working more than 60 hours a week.

Even more worrying were the high number of Foxconn suicides by employees (14 last year), seemingly unable to handle the pressure that required low-paid Chinese citizens to pump out millions of low-cost, high profit gadgets for Apple and others as a form of corporate servitude inflicted on the developing world by first-world consumer affluence.

A 20-university study of Foxconn’s practices — in which they interviewed 1800 employees — found evidence of illegal overtime and failure to report accidents. The report, by universities in China described Foxconn’s management style as inhumane and abusive.

Hewlett-Packard, Dell, Nintendo, Nokia, Microsoft, Motorola, Sony Ericsson and many more. So, who are you going to choose?

Chance to promote real change The ‘i-want’ factor is not Apple’s fault — it’s just catering to demand. Who can blame Apple for making products people like and want to buy. But as a brand leader, Apple also has a real chance to change the way consumer electronics companies do business. Just as Bill Gates is now better known for his philanthropy than his software, Apple can be the ‘i-saviour’ of globalism, starting with better wages and conditions for workers.

As unionists, we can make a difference – however small. We can start by writing letters to Apple management, telling them to employ better corporate governance procedures. We can educate ourselves on the labour, environmental and social justice practices of Apple and its competitors, let them know what we think and share our findings broadly. We can spread the word online via Twitter, blogs and Facebook. We can vote with our wallets.

As one of the world’s most profitable public companies, Apple, like many of its contemporaries in the electronics industry, perfected the use of Third World labour forces to engineer tremendous profit margins and keep the ‘i-want’ and ‘i-need’ machine cranking along at pace.

And in our use of these devices we can look at our own ethical usage. For those who can afford them, these devices are our tools and there is a world of uses and applications that can actually assist us in living sustainably, making fairer choices and participating in social justice campaigns.

But before you put that gadget back on the shelf, consider this: Foxconn’s customers also include Amazon, Intel,

Unfortunately, there is no fair trade purchases available for consumer electronics in the same way we can

The word on the web Microsoft outranking Google in ethics? http://mashable.com/2011/03/17/ microsoft-ethics/ Wikipedia on Foxconn http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foxconn A self-professed labour geek’s search for an ethical smart phone http://www.johninnit.co.uk/category/ ethical-smartphones-2/ Listings for ethical smart phone apps http://www.futureconscience.com/ best-ethical-apps-for-iphone-andandroid-2011/ Smartphone app to help end child labor http://www.justmeans.com/ASmartphone-App-To-Help-End-ChildLabor/47622.html Shop at the supermarket with a clear conscience http://www.outware.com.au/shopethical/ ShopEthical.html

qualifications and your responsibilities. The guidelines for using contracted external providers for physical education and school sport may help clarify some questions.

Download from: http:// www.pcal.nsw.gov.au/ resources/evidence_ papers

to be enacted on 1 January 2012 with all states agreeing to uniform safety standards nationally. An employer is now known as a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU). A member of an employee representative body can also apply for an entry permit to enter a workplace. Find out the latest at: http://bit.ly/q7tOfx n n n The leaderless protest had spread globally to 1500 protests in 82 countries, according to the movement’s website http://occupywallst.org/. The protest is supported by various US unions and a whole range of disparate organisations and individuals who point to significant problems with “the unchecked power of Wall Street in Washington” and corporate power in general. IEU Industrial Officer Verena Heron was holidaying in the US and

purchase clothing and food. But that doesn’t mean we can’t work together to solve this. More efforts towards building real ‘i-change’ and a little less ‘i-don’tcare’ will go far in changing the way every day consumers think about how the gadgets they love got to them in the first place.

took the photo (above) of the protest outside Wall Street in September. n n n n Are you in a K-6 school looking to encourage your students to be more physically active but aren’t sure about how to begin? Or perhaps you’re looking to hire an external provider to provide fitness classes but aren’t sure about insurances,

n n n n n The Teachers Credit Union is seeking to become a bank and change its name to Teachers Mutual Bank.

Seventy-five percent of membership must vote in the affirmative by post or at the AGM on Saturday, 26 November.

To find out more visit http://bit.ly/ olNWhb. Information sessions are also being held around the state.

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

overview

exchangenews

Life will never be the same again O

utward bound teachers had a chance to get together in preparation for their year abroad at the exchange conference held in September.

Mennonite school where he taught, and his own children had made lifelong friends in the community.

“We’re looking forward to going back on a holiday, and we’ve got Canadian friends coming over here.

This year the Union has 16 teachers preparing to go to Canada, four to Colorado in the USA, two to England, one to Scotland and one to Northern Ireland.

“I’d say this will go on for the rest of our lives.”

The teachers will swap their job and home with a teacher from the overseas country.

Geoff Dickson, Teacher at Xavier Catholic College, Llandilo, attended the Conference to talk about his experiences on exchange in Ontario last year.

He ventured over with his six children and said the trip had been “a great bonding experience” for the whole family.

“My wife became the ‘travel agent’ and every weekend we’d do something, on our own or with friends we’d made out there.”

Arriving on the last day of the Canadian school year, the family bought a camper trailer and spent 49 days straight camping.

“It was a bit of a squeeze with six kids but it was great fun … we crossed the country.”

Geoff says both students and teachers were “exceptionally welcoming” at he

[ report from ] Retired members

Geoff participated in a midyear 12-month exchange. These are becoming popular and some Canadian Boards will only consider this timeframe now. Advantages for the Australian teacher to having a Canadian school year timing are: Educationally – in the Australian school, the overseas teacher walks into an assignment where routines and expectations have already been firmly established. Therefore the overseas teacher has time to teach in comfort whilst observing and absorbing the culture of the school without having to establish everything from a totally ‘new’ perspective.

Safety – Australian teachers arrive in the summer and accustom themselves to driving and living in a moderate climate so that by the time ice and snow are daily occurrences, they have mastered it.

Physically – it is much easier to come from our winter to summer than from +30 to -3 degrees. The January turnover seems to inevitably briefly trigger colds, and mild unwellness for most Australian families until acclimatised.

? e r e h e r e w u o y h s Wi

The Australian family and teacher have approximately six weeks to settle into their community, visit the school, and the teacher to prepare and orient themselves prior to start to teach in September. And flights are also much cheaper than over the Christmas period!

Applications are now being taken for 2013 and can be downloaded from the IEU’s website. For those who have

applied unsuccessfully for 2012, if you would like to have your application reactivated you will be priority for 2013.

Contact Helen Gregory, 9779 3200 or email helen@ieu.asn.au.

A video about Geoff can be viewed at www. youtube.com/user/ ieunswact

Bonuses won’t deliver top teaching

Roseann Dale Dengate RMA Chairperson

A

t this month's RMA meeting, we started discussions by referring to a recent Newsmonth entitled ‘US teacher bonuses dumped amid poor outcomes’ where “a study concluded that teacher bonuses were an expensive failure that did little to encourage positivity among teachers or help with student performance”.

This made us feel like top teachers, but alternatively, we had classes that seemed to resist every initiative. In spite of using considerable effort to help the students feel positive, success was elusive.

However, we have witnessed a lot of change in educational expectations since the 1960s and 70s.

Student outcomes are a result of complex factors and linking bonuses to these outcomes does not deliver the best quality teaching.

Among those present (holding many degrees and hundreds of years experience) it was unanimously agreed that the results were no surprise.

The evidence from Finland indicates that improved salaries for all teachers and financial support for increased educational qualifications does flow through to raising students’ outcomes.

Richard Cleverdon spoke of his voluntary work with NSW Marine Rescue Services where he operates two channels to assist sailors. Contrary to our expectation, it is rare that assistance is needed during storms as expensive craft are seldom taken out in such weather.

Why won’t the policy makers listen to those in the classrooms? All recalled wonderful experiences of teaching easyto-motivate classes and inspiring those students.

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

Inevitably, this led to discussions of different systems of education, including the Canadian experiences and the advantages of some of the old curricula designed for apprenticeship courses.

The meeting then moved on to current experiences.

Jim Grainger presented us with information sheets as 17 years ago he lost the ability to speak after he suffered a smoking-related stroke. Since then he has conveyed a strong message, using his Lightwriter keyboard which converts

typed words to speech, about the dangers of smoking.

Every meeting of retired members confirms that we may stop full time work, but life can be just as busy and satisfying.

However, small numbers at our meetings have raised questions about the Association’s future direction.

A survey will be sent to retired members to seek their opinions as to how it should continue. There might be better ways to network and organise meetings or outings.

The RMA’s Christmas luncheon is on Friday, 2 December. Contact Iva Coric for more details: iva@ieu.asn.au

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www.ieu.asn.au [ report from ] President

[ report from ] Independent Schools

Chris Wilkinson

Michelle Omeros Vice President, Non Systemic Schools

Lots of food for thought

T

here has been a lot of activity recently, with several conferences, PIP events and the AGM. The Early Childhood Conference was a wonderful day. It is encouraging to see the huge number of members willing to come to Sydney on a Saturday to attend this conference every year.

It shows their dedication and willingness to learn more about the sector in which they work. I would also encourage all members to support the Teachers are Teachers campaign and sign the petition calling for pay parity for all who work in early childhood centres.

The Support Staff Conference was well attended. Workshops were well received and lots of discussion, concerns and suggestions were presented, and will be considered at the next level.

The Environmental Conference proved to be a very entertaining day, especially

Costa Georgiadis, the SBS gardener, who gave an energetic, vibrant and thoughtprovoking presentation. John Dee’s video presentation was inspirational and was food for thought. The workshops and panel presentations were a chance to find out about the fabulous ideas and work being performed in schools and centres around the State.

I take this opportunity to thank the officers and staff who put so much work into the preparation of these worthwhile conferences. They do not happen overnight and I know members appreciate the efforts of all concerned.

The Women’s Forum in Lismore was also a great event. These regional gatherings are proving to be valuable for members in country areas as they find it difficult to attend meetings in the city.

Everyone deserves respect

E

veryone deserves dignity and respect in the workplace. However, there may be times when staff are not treated fairly. For instance, they may be intentionally isolated from various school activities. This is an OHS issue and should be tackled before it gets out of hand.

Document such instances and contact your Rep and IEU Organiser to discuss the situation.

Alert management of what is occurring, as it is their responsibility to investigate the claim and to put a stop to this type of negative behaviour from continuing.

Staff may need inservicing, as they may not be aware that their behaviour is causing undue stress to a fellow colleague.

Sometimes age discrimination can cause one to feel isolated in the workplace.Younger workers may feel that they are not taken seriously, while the older staff are often made to feel that their years of experience are not valued in today’s society. Both groups deserve dignity and respect in the workplace and this may need to be brought up to management.

Hold a chapter meeting and voice your concerns. Hopefully positive changes will be made that will make going to work a positive experience. All staff have a wealth of information to share. We can learn so much from each other if we only take the time to listen.

Keep up the good work, keep smiling and you will be rewarded.

[ report from ] Landsdowne Branch

"Membership in the Lansdowne Branch has increased by 285 members or 13.6% on the figures tabled at last year’s AGM."

David Towson Branch Organiser

MPs on side

A

s part of the IEU’s lobbying campaign for appropriate government funding for nongovernment schools, Matt Lyons (Rep at Al Sadiq College, Yagoona) and I met with Blaxland MP Jason Clare on 19 October.

Bernadette Hawthorne (Branch President) and Luke Breen (Branch Deputy President) and I then met with Fowler MP Chris Hayes on 20 October.

Both MPs were generous with their time and demonstrated an appreciation of the non-government school sector and an understanding of the issues and concerns raised in the Union’s policy submissions to the Gonski review.

Membership in the Lansdowne Branch has increased by 285 members or 13.6% on the figures tabled at last year’s AGM. This growth could not be achieved without the determined support of Reps and other activists in our schools and I thank them for working so hard to promote and grow our Union.

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Twenty-five members attended the most recent Pedagogy in the Pub (PIP) on 20 October. This was a new workshop on Maintaining Your Accreditation.

Demand was so great that we have scheduled the same topic for Wednesday 16 November and registrations are filling fast. Two of our Lansdowne members have now completed 10 hours (five different workshops) of PIP PD. Many more have done eight hours. Feedback is overwhelmingly positive on the workshops.

I would like to thank Bernadette Hawthorne, Luke Breen and Michelle O’Keefe (Branch Secretary) for serving on the Branch executive along with Matt Lyons, Janina Kozac and Christine Dale who represent Branch to Council.

I would also like to thank the many Reps who regularly attend branch meetings after a hard day at work.

Our next meeting is on 10 November, followed by our end-of-year dinner.

Left to right: David Towson, Luke Breen, MP Chris Hayes and Bernadette Hawthorne

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

overview [ report from ] South Coast Mark Smith Branch President

T

he August meeting held in Campbelltown featured our usual spirited discussions on topical issues.

The Branch solidly supported the decision by the IEUA to disaffiliate from the ACTU. Concern was also shown by members regarding the NSW State Government’s wages policy and the possible effects this may have on negotiations in the Catholic sector later this year.

Other issues raised at Branch included: n the continuing problems caused by lack of adherence to the CEO’s own policy of advertising positions to ensure a fair and transparent employment process n the repayment of RFF when staff attend an in-service or diocesan day n Government funding of Catholic and independent schools n delegations to ALP and independent MP offices n the professional development needs of

Good news on email

support staff not being considered when planning pupil-free days

IEU welcomed the new version, especially the section on workload.

n the disappointingly slow progress in negotiations with CatholicCare regarding wages and conditions for school counsellors

The document states: “Employees are not required to be accessing and responding to work related emails or other messaging technology at all times of the day and night. Each school needs to advise parents of its expectations of using emails to communicate with staff and the fact that response times may vary. Urgent matters must be directed by phone to the school office.”

n the CEO’s decision to poach exprincipals out of retirement to fill temporary positions instead of promoting from within the school’s ranks, and n the ever increasing number of accountability and performance measuring tasks impacting on the time available for quality lesson preparation and evaluation.

The Branch Executive, along with organisers Les and Tina, attended a meeting on 17 August with Carolyn Hadley and members of her Human Resources team to discuss these matters and others.

We were supplied with the updated copy of the Acceptable Use of ICT policy. The

However concern was raised over the policy’s statement that employees can be held responsible for receiving unwelcome spam and chain mail.

The CEO’s Workplace Equality (WE) policy has also been updated and the Branch Executive was pleased to note that the CEO is committed to a workplace free from all forms of unlawful discrimination.

WE policy means that all people, regardless of gender, race, colour, age, parental status, carer responsibilities, or

"The Workplace Equity policy also aims to redress past disadvantage by improving employment access and participation for all."

disability, have the right to be given fair consideration for a vacant position or training and development opportunities.

The next Branch meeting will be held on Wednesday, 16 November at Woonona-Bulli RSL Club. All Chapter reps should attend. All South Coast members are, as always, most welcome to attend. Dinner at 6pm, meeting starts at 6.45pm.

[ report from ] Principals Branch Pam Smith Branch Organiser

Focusing on negotiations

T

he IEU’s Principals’ Branch met at the Union’s Parramatta office on 10 September with a focus on Catholic sector agreement negotiations and the national, NSW and ACT education agendas.

n parity of salaries in primary and central schools with secondary schools

A teleconference for principals in independent schools, including the Christian and Islamic sectors, was held on 30 August.

n additional remuneration via salary or superannuation after an agreed period of service as a principal, and

The IEU will be represented at a retirement function for David Lear, long serving Edmund Rice College principal and IEU Council delegate, on 11 November in Wollongong.

Term 4’s Principals’ Branch meeting will be held on 5 November at the IEU’s Parramatta office.

Catholic sector agreements In NSW, input from IEU diocesan principals’ meetings and Principals’ Branch has identified key issues for the next NSW Catholic principals’ agreement as:

NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

n review of current enrolment bands for salary purposes n recognition of experienced principals

n greater clarity and consistency of diocesan professional leave provisions for principals.

A range of other issues have been highlighted in relation to remuneration and working conditions and will be pursued at CCER and diocesan levels with input from the Principals’ Branch reference group.

The ACT Principals’ Chapter has met on two occasions this year to discuss their current claims in regard to the agreement negotiations. These meetings were well attended and an IEU principals’report was tabled with the CEO Director in Term 2.

ACT principals have requested that they meet once each term to discuss relevant issues, in particular the appraisal and reappointment process. The IEU will facilitate this in consultation with the Principals’ Chapter.

The same process will be used to ensure that the particular concerns of principals in the NSW sector of the CanberraGoulburn Archdiocese are satisfactorily addressed

Aspect principals’ negotiations The IEU has met with Aspect principal members on three occasions this year and the Union is continuing to negotiate via the AIS in regard to progressing an agreement for Aspect principals who have not received a pay rise since April 2009.

Principals in independent schools – employment issues

"ACT principals have requested that they meet once each term to discuss relevant issues."

Christian and Islamic) in relation to the renegotiation of contracts. Advice and support has been provided in relation to appropriate salary and conditions, as well as school governance issues such as relations with school boards/councils.

In response to requests, the Union has also provided assistance in regard to the development on review of policy documents (such as part-time/job share) in independent schools.

During Terms 3 and 4, the Union has been assisting principals in some independent schools (Anglican

21

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NEWSmonth – Vol 31#7 2011

Bernard O’Connor NGS Super

Absolutely Super:

How does the Australian pension system rate globally

C

onfidence in the Australian superannuationandpensionsystem is often eroded during times of market decline and major regulatory change.

This is because members of super funds see their account balances falling as a result of market volatility or the government changes the legislation which increases the complexity of an already complex regulatory system.

Our retirement system is based on a three-pillar approach: an age pension which is means tested and governmentfunded, employer-funded compulsory superannuation and private savings.

In the Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index, which is compiled annually by Mercer, Australia, was placed second in the world behind the Netherlands.

The index is based on three broad categories: adequacy or what retirees actually get, sustainability or whether the system can be maintained and integrity or the level of trust that can be placed in the system.

This is a pleasing result which should provide some comfort to those contemplating retirement as well as those who remain in the workforce contributing to our $1.3 trillion worldclass superannuation system.

The author of the report, David Knox, has noted that while our system is robust and highly ranked, there are still several areas where we could improve and possibly achieve the number one position.

Increasing the compulsory employer contribution to 12% would significantly increase the national retirement savings pool.

This is the government’s stated policy and the original Keating plan, but it has yet to be legislated.

A policy of encouraging older workers to remain in the workforce is another measure to increase the pension pool of money as these workers would postpone drawing down their savings and maintain contributions to super longer.

A requirement that part of the pension benefit is taken as an income stream would also serve to reduce the pressure on the age pension and avoid the payment of lump sum benefits.

This measure, however, would be contentious and perhaps unpopular with

the general public, but it would reduce the possibility of a lump sum ‘splurge’.

Increasing the pension age due to increased life expectancy would also assist in building the retirement savings pool. A final measure to improve the Australian superannuation/pension system would be to improve efficiency of super funds and reducing the costs for members.

An obvious means of achieving the reduced costs would be the consolidation of superannuation funds in order to achieve the economies of scale needed for reduced fees and charges for members.

This final recommendation is arguably already happening with some smaller funds seeking to merge with larger funds due to their inability to offer the cost and member benefits which the larger funds are able to offer.

In spite of the fact that the Australian pension system has been recognised as one of the world’s best, there is no room for hubris or complacency. The life expectancy of males is now in the lower-80s; women’s life expectancy is even higher.

So the traditional idea of providing pension benefits to age 70 has become obsolete. Other areas that should be improved include providing super for self-employed workers as well as for women who experience gaps in their contributions due to parental leave.

No doubt the increased casualisation and part-time direction of the workforce will affect the quantum of super saved.

So while our achievements in the area of providing sustainable retirement benefits are considerable on the world stage, continued vigilance is essential to improve the pension system in order to achieve the dignity in retirement Australian workers deserve.

Bernard O’Connor, NGS Super boconnor@ngssuper.com.au (Important information:The information in this article is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a financial decision, please assess the appropriateness of the information to your individual circumstances, read the Product Disclosure Statement for any product you may be thinking of acquiring and consider seeking independent advice from a licensed or appropriately qualified financial adviser.)

NEWS month Newsmonth is published eight times a year (two issues per term) by the NSW/ACT Independent Education Union.

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NSW/ACT IEU EXECUTIVE Dick Shearman General Secretary

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Give Aways

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Psst …

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