Volume 49.6 August 2020
The State School Teachers’ Union of W.A. (Inc.)
WORKED sstuwa.org.au
pg 5
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Frank has been in the industry for 10 years, Ryan 2 years, and Llane and Garrick just shy of 2 years. With a background in football, they all share a ‘team first’ focus. This means everything they do gives them an advantage as they share ideas and vehicle pricing to find you the best deal possible. This has also built camaraderie over time and they appreciate the fact that they can rely on each other and motivate each other, which only makes them stronger. "Welcoming new clients into the Fleet Network family is always enjoyable. Seeing a client of ours in the workplace and having them tell their colleague how enjoyable their experience was is always satisfying” says Ryan. Frank, Ryan, Llane and Garrick are happy to take calls outside of work hours and are willing to help clients as much as possible. “Constantly striving to get the best result is at the core of Fleet Network. Providing highly personalised service for all our clients is what we pride ourselves on” says Frank.
Features
Volume 49.6 August 2020
In this edition Correspondence:
The Editor, PO Box 212 West Perth WA 6872 editor@sstuwa.org.au | Ph: 9210 6000 Ph: 9210 6060 memberassist@sstuwa.org.au Print post publication 100004470 | $4.95 ABN: 544 780 946 35 Authorised by Mary Franklyn, General Secretary, The State School Teachers’ Union of W.A. (Inc.) 1 West Street, West Perth WA. Printed by Vanguard Press, 26 James Street, Northbridge WA. August 2020. Cover: Our TAFE Works campaign has worked! Read about the results it’s delivered on page five. To access the digital copy of Western Teacher, visit: sstuwa.org.au/westernteacher
Find us on Facebook facebook.com/sstuwa
2020 Publishing Dates Deadline Distributed 25 November 17 January
Member Assist:
In this edition
28 January
21 February
3 March
4 May
25 May
5 June
8 June
17 July
13 July
14 August
17 August
11 September
21 September
16 October
19 October
27 November
Dates are subject to change
Schools and TAFE funding a welcome boost............................................4 Know your rights.........................................8 Keeping you covered through legal services.......................................................9 New educators at State Council...............10 TAFE online delivery concerns.................11 National survey reveals budget-cut impact to TAFE..........................................12 SSTUWA scholarships available...............14 Empowered to see the big picture............15 Pay freezes could further recession.........16 Celebrating Wear it Purple Day................18 Keep schools safe sanctuaries of learning.....................................................20
Regulars
From the President.....................................5 From the General Secretary.......................7 Education and Training.............................28 Member Benefits......................................30 Classifieds.................................................32 Noticeboard...............................................34
Advertisements in Western Teacher are the responsibility of advertisers. While Western Teacher makes reasonable efforts to ensure that no misleading claims are made by advertisers, responsibility is not accepted by The State School Teachers’ Union of W.A. (Inc.) for statements made or the failure of any product or service to give satisfaction. Inclusion of a product or service should not be construed as an endorsement or recommendation by The State School Teachers’ Union of W.A. (Inc.)
Western Teacher is the official publication of The State School Teachers’ Union of W.A. (Inc.)
Barrie Bennett reference books Effective Group Work BEYOND COOPERATIVE LEARNING n
BARRIE BENNETT
Instructional Intelligence Building Instructional Expertise for the Classroom
An SSTUWA project in collaboration with Barrie Bennett © B. Bennett, The State School Teachers’ Union of W.A. (Inc.)
Instructional Intelligence
Effective Group Work
Classroom Management
Graphic Intelligence
Dr Barrie Bennett is an internationally renowned educational expert and emeritus professor at the University of Toronto. His books cover a range of interrelated topics that support effective teaching and learning. Members can access special pricing on the series.
Place your order at sstuwa.org.au/shop Western Teacher
August 2020
3
Issues
Schools and TAFE funding a welcome boost The SSTUWA has welcomed the McGowan Government’s massive investment in school and TAFE infrastructure as a recognition of the crucial role education will play in rebuilding Western Australia’s economy. The state government earlier this month announced a $229 million investment in TAFE, as well as $492.2 million for WA school construction projects and refurbishments. SSTUWA President Pat Byrne said the state government investment in infrastructure was essential and needed to be matched with similar investment in people. “This is great news for education in WA,” she said. “That the state government has recognised the value of TAFE in building skills and knowledge, and of investment in schools’ infrastructure, in the state’s COVID recovery strategy will be welcomed by all involved. “This is a major step towards the state government fully funding education in WA, with extra investment to support the state’s unique needs in terms of remote and regional education. “This is consistent with the Premier’s acknowledgment of the importance of the role schools and TAFEs will play in
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resetting WA’s economy. “While this is a significant improvement in terms of capital works, there is a need now to ensure that overall school funding stays at the level required to properly fund WA schools. “There is a worrying clause in current federal/state funding agreements that allows for a potential reduction in WA’s education budget. We hope the Premier will make a firm and unambiguous commitment that such a reduction will not happen on his watch.”
Ms Byrne said there was a need to ensure that the government employed sufficient teachers and lecturers which will be needed to cope with the anticipated increase in enrolments in public education. “The announcements show a strong commitment from the Premier and Education Minister,” she said. “The SSTUWA will continue to work towards building on this recognition that education holds the key towards reinvigorating WA’s economy.”
TAFE Works delivering results
From the President
By Pat Byrne President
The McGowan Government’s recent announcement of a $229 million investment in TAFE represents not just a massive boon for vocational education and training in WA, but a vindication of the SSTUWA’s long-running TAFE Works campaign. TAFE Works has, along with the hard work of our TAFE reps, now delivered two huge wins in the past year with state government announcements reducing TAFE fees and the more recent Rebuilding our TAFEs program. There is no doubt that a need to reinvigorate the state economy in the wake of COVID-19 has accelerated these changes but the union can be proud of the role it has played in keeping TAFE at the forefront of government thinking when it comes to where economic investment could do the most good. This was a central theme of the TAFE Works campaign. The 50 per cent cut in TAFE fees for 34 high priority qualifications was announced in October last year, with early figures in February this year showing a 20 per cent increase in enrolments in these courses, which include certificates in trade fabrication, cyber security and early childhood education and care. The Rebuilding our TAFEs program will see $167.4 million invested in capital works to upgrade TAFE colleges across the state, which will also create 1,000 jobs to boost the pandemic-stricken economy. Regional TAFE colleges will share this windfall, with $79.1 million earmarked for upgrades to TAFE institutes in Albany, South Hedland, Northam and Roebourne. Funding has also been set aside in the program to continue TAFE fee cuts and deliver more free short courses.
Concurrently with the recent TAFE announcement, the government has released its report on the Review of Skills, Training and Workforce Development which was conducted in May and June as part of the state government’s response to the impact of COVID-19 on the workforce in WA. The SSTUWA is currently examining the report, its findings and recommendations to assess its impact on TAFE members. TAFE Works has been running since 2015 and has been calling for a number of steps to ensure the viability of the sector including: • A significant and ongoing investment in the public training sector and TAFE institutes, which addresses funding cuts under the previous state government. • TAFE course fee caps and/or reduction in fees where they have been increased to ensure affordability for all prospective students. • Good working conditions for TAFE lecturers, including security in employment. The SSTUWA is proud to note that in these areas that its efforts through TAFE Works has seen real and sizable victories.
curriculum hours, as well as removal of any bars to grade progression after completion of Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. There is movement when it comes to better conditions for members, and those in the TAFE sector should be proud of the hard work they have done to effect change. We need to continue the fight for similar gains on the national level.
TAFE lecturers now have greater job security, with them being able to be made permanent at any stage after their initial contract and without the need to reapply for the same position.
National TAFE Day fell on 13 August and the day was marked by branch and member action to highlight the importance of resourcing the public training sector.
This win was one of many negotiated by the SSTUWA for the 2019 TAFE General Agreement, which has now been registered in the WA Industrial Relations Commission.
You can continue to provide ongoing support by lobbying federal MPs and being active in your support for TAFEs on social media. For more information on how to be involved visit stoptafecuts.com.au
Other wins include commitments to examine class sizes and student
You can also find TAFE Works on Facebook by visiting: facebook.com/TAFEWorksWA Western Teacher
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August 2020
Planning the nation’s recovery
From the General Secretary
By Mary Franklyn General Secretary
ACTU plan The current COVID-19 crisis has upended the lives, and livelihoods, of many of our fellow Australians. As the nation deals with the economic fallout of the crisis, the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) has proposed a five-fold reconstruction plan to help the nation and its working people recover. The five concrete ideas are designed to create and save jobs, protect and nurture whole industries, support public and private sector jobs, invest in future skills and training and strengthen Australia’s physical and social infrastructure. These ideas include a national commitment to free early childhood education and care, massive investment in training (including 150,000 free TAFE places), a Rediscover Australia initiative to help our travel and hospitality sectors survive, a large and sustained increase in infrastructure investment and a comprehensive plan to expand sustainable manufacturing. The ACTU has called for urgent government intervention and investment to rebuild the economy and create permanent, secure jobs. The SSTUWA supports the ACTU’s call and comments from president Michele O’Neil, who says: “Government must help build ongoing local jobs, more training and education opportunities to get people into jobs and provide support for people who are making things here in Australia. “We need big and bold government investment and action in order for Australia to return to health – both socially and economically,” Michele continues. “With almost one million people officially unemployed and many hundreds of thousands out of work, or without enough
work, the Australian people need to see that the economy isn’t going to fall off a cliff. “We are calling on Scott Morrison and his government to think big by investing public money for public good, in creating jobs that support people and communities now and into the future. “Our initiatives will support and create jobs for women and men, for cities and towns, and for young people as well as older workers.
The Public Good It is in the midst of the Centre for Future Work’s warnings that we remind members about the UnionsWA campaign, The Public Good, which pulls together strands of Dr Stanford’s research and the ACTU’s economic recovery plan. The Public Good campaign seeks to educate the community about the vital role public servants play in their lives and hold governments accountable between election cycles.
“Whether it is free and universal childcare, the expansion of public infrastructure investment with locally made materials, free TAFE courses focused on rebuilding our skills and training sector, support to revitalise our travel and hospitality sectors and regional communities or building a sustainable manufacturing capacity, this plan delivers jobs, community infrastructure and a future for Australia.
Public servants have shouldered a huge burden to help WA and the nation cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, from the health workforce, to teachers, police and emergency workers, cleaners and other essential services workers.
“This is a plan for a jobs-led economic reconstruction.”
During its efforts to ensure members stayed safe during the COVID-19 outbreak one of the things the SSTUWA called for was testing in schools.
For more detail about the ACTU’s plan, turn to page 26 of this issue of Western Teacher.
Public service wages I am a big fan of the work being done by Dr Jim Stanford, who is the director of the Australia Institute’s Centre for Future Work. His latest research, with colleague Troy Henderson, centres on the negative consequences of freezing public service pay. Dr Stanford argues that the current era of wage freezes for public sector workers is not only detrimental for the long-term financial security of workers themselves, but risks transforming the Australian recession into an economic depression. It’s a sobering warning, one which you can read in full on page 16.
They need to be recognised and rewarded for this work. To support this campaign visit thepublicgood.com.au
COVID testing
As a result the state government made schools a key focus in the COVID-19 testing program. The program involved 79 public schools and has completed its first round of testing. The purpose was to test for asymptomatic COVID-19 cases. Of the 4,757 tests carried out, all were negative. In addition 20,500 surveys were completed, yet to be analysed. Participants ranged in age from 4-71 years; 85 per cent were children. Swab testing at participating schools will be repeated at least twice more during Term 3. Western Teacher
August 2020
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Members’ matters
Know your rights The team in Member Assist look at some changes in the Schools 2019 General Agreement that will affect members Short Leave Award clause 40
(9)
The short leave clause has been changed significantly and now reads: (1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
The Employer may, upon sufficient cause being shown, grant an employee short leave on full pay not exceeding three (3) working days in any one (1) calendar year, subject to the following provisions. Short leave can only be taken for matters: (a)
of a personal and pressing nature;
(b)
which arise with little or no notice;
(c)
which require immediate attention; and
(d)
that cannot reasonably be conducted outside normal business hours.
Notwithstanding subclause 40(2), the Employer may approve an application for matters of a personal and pressing nature, which require the attendance of the employee at a time outside the control of the employee. Short leave will not be approved for regular ongoing situations or for circumstances normally met by other forms of leave.
(5)
Short leave may be taken in full days, or a period of less than one day.
(6)
An employee can take more than one (1) day at any one time of short leave, subject to the discretion of the Employer. Notification of a request for short leave is to be made as soon as is practicable.
(8)
An employee may be required by the Employer to provide an explanation of the reasons for taking short leave.
Know Your Rights
KYR
(7)
8
Failure to notify the Employer as soon as is practicable will result in this leave being treated as absent without leave.
(10) Short leave entitlements do not accrue from year to year. Duties other than Teaching Award clause 14(2)
(a)
DOTT for primary teachers will increase at the commencement of the 2021 school year.
(c)
Clause 14(2) reads: Effective from the commencement of the 2021 school year, the period of time for primary school teachers provided for at subclause 1(b) will increase to 270 minutes per week. Face to face teaching Award clause 13(3) As a consequence of the DOTT time being increased for primary teachers, face to face time will decrease. Clause 13(3) reads: Effective from the commencement of the 2021 school year, the maximum number of hours of face to face teaching time for primary teachers will decrease to 21 hours and 20 minutes per week. Teachers – Duties other than Teaching (DOTT) time General Agreement 2019 clause 11 The short leave clause has been changed significantly and now reads: 11.1 When a Teacher chooses to exercise the option provided for in clause 10Teachers - Face To Face Teaching of this Agreement, the weekly allocation of DOTT will decrease corresponding to the face to face teaching in excess of the weekly maximum specified in clause 14 - Teachers - Duties Other Than Teaching (DOTT) Time of the Award.
Have a question? A full compilation of Know Your Rights information sheets are available on the SSTUWA website and app. Information will soon be updated to incorporate the 2019 General Agreements. Schools: sstuwa.org.au/schoolsKYR | TAFE: visit sstuwa.org.au/TAFEkyr You can also speak with your union rep and contact Member Assist: (08) 9210 6060 | 1800 106 683 | memberassist@sstuwa.org.au
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11.2 Principals will ensure that the priority use of DOTT time is for Teachers to focus on teaching, learning and assessment. Activities undertaken during DOTT time may include, but are not limited to: preparing materials;
(b) planning lessons; finding resources;
(d) professional reading; (e) setting up for lessons; (f)
record keeping/report writing;
(g) supervising students in a nonclassroom environment such as sports carnivals and excursions. 11.3 Without limiting clause 11.2 the Parties support collaborative DOTT sessions for the purposes of sharing expertise, workloads or planning where these are Teacher led and directed. The timing and frequency of such sessions must not conflict with the priority use of DOTT as provided for at clause 11.2. 11.4 Decisions on the use of DOTT time should not unreasonably impinge upon the capacity of Teachers to focus on teaching, learning and assessment. For example, DOTT time should not be regularly timetabled to conflict with regularly scheduled school activities such as assemblies. Electronic and Other Communication Advice General Agreement 2019 clause 30 This is a new clause in the General Agreement and reads: 30.1 Further to clause 9(2) and 16(7) of this Agreement, Teachers and School Administrators are not required to initiate or respond to electronic and other communication from school staff, parents or community members when not on site. This includes time when staff members are on sick leave or Approved leave, public holidays and student vacation time. 30.2 Clause 30.1 does not apply in the case of an emergency, or where there are staffing or health related issues where failure to communicate could lead to Employees being disadvantaged.
Member benefits
Keeping you covered through legal services There are a number of reasons why people join and remain a member of the SSTUWA. Throughout this year, we have been highlighting some of the reasons why SSTUWA membership is so important. In this edition, we will be taking a closer look at the wide range of legal services that are provided to members of the SSTUWA at either no cost, or with significant discounts on the standard legal fees. The members of our in-house Legal Services Team – including our advocates and case managers – work with the union’s legal services providers, Slater and Gordon Lawyers, Tehan Legal and Eureka Lawyers – to represent you in employment matters and provide you with a range of other legal services.
• Access 24/7 to urgent criminal law advice.
You can also contact them by emailing memberassist@sstuwa.org.au
• Financial assistance in certain circumstances to engage Tehan Legal in serious criminal law matters arising in the course of employment (subject to the conditions).
If your matter is an urgent criminal matter (for example: arrests, search warrants or police interviews), contact Tehan Legal on 0411 276 966.
The legal services you receive as a member of the SSTUWA include:
• A free initial consultation from Eureka Lawyers, and substantial reductions on the usual hourly rates, in relation to:
• A free consultation with Slater and Gordon in relation to any matter connected with your employment or your professional registration. • Advice and representation in performance and conduct matters. • Advice and legal representation from Slater and Gordon on a no-win, no-fee basis for: o
o
Workers’ compensation claims (fees on successful workers’ compensation matters are limited to the other party’s contribution to fees, with no outof-pocket expenses to you). Criminal injures compensation, public liability, professional negligence and product liability claims.
• Significant discounts on Slater and Gordon’s usual hourly rates for a range of other legal matters. • A free 30-minute consultation with Tehan Legal regarding criminal law or restraining order matters.
o Wills. o
Estate planning, probate and administration.
o
Family law.
o
Motor vehicle accident personal injury claims. (Where there is a reasonable prospect of a successful outcome, Eureka Lawyers will offer a legal costs agreement on a no-win, no-fee basis.)
• A free simple will from Eureka Lawyers, where a simple will is appropriate to your circumstances. The SSTUWA will cover the cost of the will and, if a more complex will or a will for your partner/spouse is required, SSTUWA will contribute $150 towards your total costs.
How to get help with employment and professional matters In the first instance, contact Member Assist on: (08) 9210 6060 or 1800 106 683.
In many cases we will be able to provide you with the advice and support you need to proceed at this first point of contact. If matters are more complex or if urgent representation is needed (for example, if a formal disciplinary investigation has already commenced), Member Assist will refer you to a member of our Legal Services Team who will work with you during the resolution of your case. Depending on the kind of support that you need, you will be assisted by a case manager or an advocate. Case managers generally work with members over a period of time on matters such as fitness for work and performance management, while advocates specialise in advice and representation when formal proceedings may be required. If necessary, the Legal Services Team will refer you to our lawyers, Slater and Gordon, Tehan Legal or Eureka Lawyers, for legal advice. We may provide funding for Slater and Gordon, Tehan Legal or Eureka Lawyers to represent you, where this is appropriate. It is comforting to know that as an SSTUWA member, we really do have you covered when it comes to legal services. To find out more, head over to sstuwa.org.au/legal where you will find a comprehensive guide to available legal services. Western Teacher
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New educators
New educators at State Council State Council is the ultimate decisionmaking body of the SSTUWA, where nominated members from across WA represent their district and have input into the policies and direction of our union. Each year, early career teachers are invited to participate in our State Council guest program. COVID-19 caused the cancellation of our June State Council this year but as restrictions are easing, we are looking forward to welcoming delegates to November State Council Conference, currently scheduled for 13-14 November this year. The SSTUWA invites a few new educators to attend State Council as guests and they are hosted by the Growth Team. Guests are able to observe proceedings and get involved in workshops aimed at increasing their knowledge. The photos on this page are the new educator guests who attended June State Council Conference in 2019. Attending State Council is an awesome opportunity to experience how decisions are made and a great opportunity for networking. Previous guests to State Council have heard from keynote speakers such as Department of Education Director General Lisa Rodgers, Professor Barrie Bennett, Education International General Secretary Emeritus Fred van Leeuwen and UnionsWA Secretary Meredith Hammat, to name a few. Guests to State Council have found it to be very informative. They have gained a better understanding of how decisions are made, learnt about many issues affecting public education, the importance of union membership and have enjoyed meeting other teachers from their district. Expressions of interest are now being called for new educators who are
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interested in attending November State Council as a guest. Nominees must be in their first five years of teaching and must commit to attending the conference on both days.
Further information can be obtained from the Growth Team: neweducator@sstuwa.org.au sstuwa.org.au/NEN
TAFE
TAFE online delivery concerns By Ramona Mitussis TAFE organiser
Online delivery survey Following the completion of the first TAFE semester this year, the SSTUWA held a survey into the online delivery of TAFE courses. This survey was open to all TAFE lecturers, not just members of the union. About 300 TAFE lecturers, or approximately 15 per cent of the lecturing workforce, responded. The SSTUWA believes that the data gathered, along with survey participant responses, accurately reflects the situation and thoughts of the TAFE lecturing workforce in WA. From their Semester 1 experience, respondents felt that an average of 58 per cent of their students did not have appropriate equipment and learning skills to be taught online. It is interesting to note that this figure was collated from lecturers across different courses and industry areas, meaning that for some lecturers, the number of students without appropriate equipment and learning skills to be taught online would have been higher. Almost 92 per cent of lecturers felt that students were at risk of dropping out of studies or disengaging from learning if the move to online learning continued. In terms of students disengaging if their studies were moved online, this is a real issue for our members. It is also very concerning that only seven per cent of lecturers felt that industry and/or TAFE student employers would be very supportive of moving practical skill development or assessment activities online, and almost 50 per cent would be not supportive at all. Only a quarter of respondents state they are being consulted about how their course will be delivered in Semester 2, while many have concerns about the support and time needed or given to support online delivery, or a blended approach.
Before any move to increase online or blended delivery the sector needs to fully analyse which courses or units could feasibly and appropriately be delivered in a blended format and fund the support and time needed to develop quality learning resources. This is not simple – time needs to be spent doing this analysis before any further move to increase blended delivery. Lecturers need to be actively and properly consulted during this process. Fundamental also would be the introduction of special units for students designed to help them increase their learning skills to the point that we know they will thrive in a blended learning environment. Students would also need to be practically supported to ensure they have ongoing access to appropriate equipment and internet to facilitate their learning. The COVID-19 crisis has clearly shown just how under resourced the TAFE sector is in terms of supporting students in online or blended learning. The union has been discussing these issues with the department and pushed for more support for lecturers and students including specially designed
units to help increase student capacity to learn online. However, a key message from the survey responses was that online and blended delivery were overwhelming, not appropriate delivery modes given course content, assessment requirements and student needs, and should therefore only be introduced in a limited way. The full report will be available to members soon.
General Agreement update The 2019 TAFE General Agreement, which has been accepted by members, was registered on 6 August. The SSTUWA is working on producing a new Red Book, whilst the TAFE Committee is working on implementation of the new agreement. Members are encouraged to attend future know your rights training to fully understand the agreement and changes to it. A final copy of the TAFE General Agreement is available on our website. Updated Red Books and Know Your Rights information sheets will be available in the upcoming months. Western Teacher
August 2020
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TAFE
National survey reveals budget-cut impact to TAFE More than three-quarters of TAFE staff have considered leaving in the past three years, according to the results of a new national survey. The Australian Education Union’s (AEU) 2020 State of our TAFEs survey, the first detailed snapshot of the sector for a decade, has revealed the impact that billions of dollars of Commonwealth and state and territory budget cuts have had on the sector.
across the survey categories of IT equipment (88 per cent), material support for workplace delivery (to deliver training) (89 per cent), technical and administration equipment (90 per cent), classrooms (81 per cent), trade equipment (91 per cent), studio equipment (75 per cent) and library/ learning centre (61 per cent). •
The survey also revealed major issues with workload, resourcing and lack of staff support. AEU Federal President Correna Haythorpe said that TAFE urgently required investment from all levels of government to ensure that it can deliver high quality vocational education and be at the forefront of Australia’s post COVID-19 recovery. According to the survey: •
•
•
•
12
More than two-thirds of respondents (68 per cent) were aware that their institution had stopped providing particular courses in the past three years, with a lack of funding cited as the most common reason for course closure. Eighty-one per cent of respondents said that the budget in their department had decreased in the past three years, while nearly half (49 per cent) of those in teaching roles said class sizes had increased. Improved IT equipment (54 per cent) and materials needed to deliver training (50 per cent) were most frequently cited as requiring significant additional investment to bring up to standard. Current levels of TAFE capital works and equipment investment were considered inadequate and requiring of some or significant investment by the vast majority of respondents, Western Teacher
August 2020
•
More than three-quarters (76 per cent) of respondents said that they had considered leaving the sector in the past three years. Of this group, 94 per cent of those were currently working in the job that they had considered leaving. Less than a third of respondents expected to spend their entire career working in TAFE.
•
Workload and excessive hours, management approach to, and lack of support for, staff and arduous compliance requirements were the most commonly cited reasons for wanting to leave.
•
About 96 per cent of respondents said administration had increased as a proportion of total work time in the last three years, and of these 84 per cent said it had increased significantly.
Ms Haythorpe said that budget cuts at all levels of government had led to the total number of TAFEs falling to 35 nationally in 2017-18, down from 57 in 2013/14. She said the subsequent campus and course closures have had a detrimental impact on students and staff, leading to increased workloads and low morale. According to the Report on Government Services, total annual government VET expenditure has fallen by $1.6 billion (21.3 per cent) from the 2012 peak of $7.65 billion. Since 2013, the Federal Coalition has:
•
Cut $3 billion from vocational education.
•
Overseen 140,000 fewer apprentices now than when it was elected.
•
Closed the $3.9 billion Education Investment Fund.
•
Cut a further $325.8 million in funding from TAFE and vocational education budgets in 2019.
Ms Haythorpe said that it was essential that funding and prominence be restored to TAFE in acknowledgement of the organisation’s unique position and ability to provide hope, opportunity and lifelong qualifications and skills for millions of Australians. “This is a wakeup call to governments across the nation,” she said. “Once the COVID-19 crisis has passed, Australia will have an urgent need for qualified workers across all industries, and TAFE is the only institution that has the infrastructure, the workforce and the trusted reputation to meet the challenges posed by COVID-19. “We need to invest in TAFE as the anchor institution of vocational education, to ensure that it is the centrepiece of the effort to rebuild Australia’s economy. “Australia’s TAFE teachers stand ready to help the nation get back on its feet, but the government needs to back them with the funding and vocational education policy support needed for the sector. “TAFE offers high quality vocational education at all levels, with nationally accredited programs, a highly qualified and experienced workforce, campuses across Australia, and it has the trust and respect of employers and the community. “A strong, fully-funded TAFE sector must be at the centre of the Commonwealth’s response to the economic challenges facing Australia post COVID-19.”
State of our TAFEs: more findings the number one factor by more than half of all respondents, and more than three times as popular as any other option).
The AEU’s State of our TAFEs survey had 1,438 responses in total, with responses coming from every TAFE institution in Australia. Two thirds (68 per cent) of respondents were teachers/lecturers and an additional 15 per cent were in management positions. The survey respondents have a high level of experience with an average of 17 years in the TAFE sector and an average of 15 years with their current employer. Many of them reported that resources have been reduced, class sizes have increased and significant investment is needed. •
•
Other common reasons for course closures were insufficient student numbers and a lack of qualified teachers.
Workload and working hours Across all respondents working in TAFE, both full time and part time, working hours exceed contractual hours by an average of 26 per cent.
•
Only two per cent said that their workload had reduced, either significantly or slightly. Seventy-three per cent reported that their workload is unmanageable at least half the time (including 10 per cent who said it was entirely unmanageable and 35 per cent who said it was unmanageable most of the time).
•
Only two per cent of people said that their workload is always manageable.
•
Administration was seen as having the largest increase as a component of total work time and as the top factor driving workload (selected as
•
In 2017-18 total government expenditure on vocational educational fell by $252 million to a total of $6.02 billion, a decline of four per cent from the previous year. This was the lowest spend in real terms of any year over the last decade.
•
•
For part time workers, work time exceeds their contracted hours by an average of 43 per cent.
This is an expenditure decline of $1.6 billion (21.3 per cent) from the 2012 peak of $7.65 billion.
•
Those employed on very small fractions (0.2 – 0.4 FTE) are most likely to report working well above their contracted hours, with many reporting that they are working double the amount of time they are paid for each week.
•
Total annual hours provided by government expenditure continued to fall to 36.4 million, a decline of 6.4 per cent from last year and of 30.6 per cent from the 2012 peak.
•
In real terms and excluding user cost of capital, total Commonwealth, state and territory government expenditure on VET is now lower than at any point in the last decade, and has fallen by over $1.3 billion since 2013.
•
Total government spending on VET peaked in 2012 at $6.7 billion, real 2018 funding levels are 21.4 per cent lower than they were in 2012.
•
Real government recurrent expenditure per person aged 1564 years (excluding user cost of capital) has declined nationally by 15.2 per cent in the last decade and has also declined by 26.7 per cent from its 2012 peak.
•
In every jurisdiction except Tasmania per person spend has fallen from 2009 to 2018, by 23.3 per cent in ACT, 22.3 per cent in WA, 18.4 per cent in VIC, 16.4 per cent in SA, 12.4 per cent in QLD and 12.1 per cent in NSW.
•
•
Are workloads manageable? •
As sourced from Report on Government Services 2020:
Full time workers reported working an average of 43 hours per week, 21 per cent above their contractual working hours – this equates to an additional day of unpaid work every week.
Intensity and pace of work About 93 per cent said that the pace or intensity of their work has increased over the last three years, with 75 per cent saying that it has increased significantly.
In context: TAFE funding cuts
•
The most frequently defunded courses were Creative Arts, Engineering and Languages, Literacy and Numeracy courses.
•
TAFE
•
•
On average, TAFE members in their first three years of working in the sector are working an average of 28 per cent more hours each week than they are contracted to work (almost an additional day and a half a week for full time workers). Thirty per cent of TAFE teachers are working in excess of 45 hours per week on average, and some reported working in excess of 65 hours per week. Nearly three quarters of people stated that their workload had increased over the past five years, almost half (46 per cent) stated it had increased significantly and 26 per cent stating it had increased slightly. Twenty-one per cent indicated that their working hours had not changed and less than seven per cent stated that working hours had reduced.
Western Teacher
August 2020
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Professional
SSTUWA scholarships available The SSTUWA has a number of annual scholarships and programs that are available to members to further their professional development, industrial knowledge and union involvement. For application forms and more information on all the scholarships visit sstuwa.org.au/scholarships
SSTUWA Scholarship Program The SSTUWA Scholarship Program provides an opportunity for members to undertake industrial and/or professional learning opportunities. The scholarship program is designed to support the key objectives of the SSTUWA strategic plan: • Protecting and improving our industrial and professional rights. • Promoting high quality public education for all. • Ensuring the current and long-term interests of our members are at the centre of everything we do. It not only provides members with personal growth but also the ability to contribute back to the broader membership. On an annual basis, members can make an application for financial support to partake in development opportunities. A pool of $10,000 per annum is available to support the SSTUWA Scholarship Program. Scholarships are advertised in Term 4 of the preceding year in which the scholarships are available and are advertised in the Western Teacher and on the union website.
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Please submit all expressions of interest for the 2021 SSTUWA Scholarship Program by Friday 4 November 2020.
Anna Stewart Memorial Project Each year the Anna Stewart Memorial Project is coordinated by UnionsWA. The first project was held in Victoria in 1984 and in Western Australia in 1986. Over the week, participants see how unions are organised, become involved in current union issues and campaigns and visit workplaces. The emphasis is on practical experiences - seeing the union in action rather than reading or hearing about it in theory. All women unionists are eligible to participate in the project. An account of the experience for last year’s project participant, Mishael Peeradina, is on the opposite page.
to develop their own skills and abilities in the areas of student behaviour and/or instructional strategies. The scholarship is open for nominations in Term 3 this year and will be formally awarded as part of the November State Council in 2020. Last year’s scholarship winner was Annita Wenban (pictured above).
Lynette Virgona Scholarship
Rosemary Richards Scholarship
Applications are now open for the Lynette Virgona Scholarship.
Rosemary Richards was a proud feminist, unionist and educator.
The deadline for applications is Friday 25 September.
A trailblazing leader, she was committed to advancing gender equality across the AEU.
The Lynette Virgona Scholarship has been established by the SSTUWA in memory of Lynette Virgona, who died of cancer in 2013 while serving as an Executive member of the SSTUWA and a Branch Councillor of the AEU(WA) Branch.
In her memory, the Rosemary Richards Scholarship continues her legacy by building the capacity of women as activist and leaders.
As well as serving at Executive level, Lynette was a representative at branch level, District Council, State Council and on SSTUWA committees. The annual scholarship of $1,500 will be available to assist a member of the SSTUWA to take up training or professional development opportunities
This is an opportunity for an AEU woman member with an idea for an innovative project, research or study experience that will increase her skills and experience in the union’s work at state/territory, national or international level. The scholarship is valued at $10,000 and is intended to cover all project expenses. Applications will be called for in early-mid 2021.
Professional
Empowered to see the big picture By Mishael Peeradina
When I first saw the expression of interest for the Anna Stewart Memorial Project I honestly believed that I wasn’t a suitable candidate.
I had not intended to apply for the Anna Stewart Memorial Project, but I’m glad I did because I can now see the bigger picture.
I mean really, what could I offer? While I may have had the women’s contact officer (WCO) title for a few years, we are on most days a well organised school and the staff is mutually respectful and considerate of each other.
It’s not just about the immediate workplace. It’s about women across professions who are still battling for entitlements that I take for granted.
Are there a few niggles? Absolutely, which workplace doesn’t have them? Like every other workplace family, we have our ups and downs, but mostly we are a cohesive unit of stable staff be it part-time or fulltime, with an approachable admin team. I mean really, it’s not much different from your workplace. Except I know it is. We met at UnionsWA for a week, a group of Annas from different walks of life with different experiences shaping us (Mishael is seen on this page, standing left, meeting with Curtin Primary School principal Jennifer Broz). Our needs, however different, did highlight that gender equity is still a work in progress. And while I felt that the niggles in my workplace were not really much of an issue, I found the very same things I took for granted at my school were still battles to be won in other professions. While part-time work is fairly acceptable in a primary school, teachers in high school are still struggling to have that. While I am the WCO in my school, other professions are still battling to have a Women’s Committee. Sitting amongst the other Annas I came to the realisation that our union has worked, and is working, tirelessly to ensure members’ rights and dignity are maintained. Meeting the staff at SSTUWA, I could see how passionate everyone was about their work and the effort they put into empowering members.
It’s about opportunities lost or missed out on because of a perceived sense of gender needs and/or differences. One of the biggest takeaways from this project – women second guess themselves when opportunities come their way, so don’t doubt yourself. You are qualified. You are capable. You can influence the agenda.
Anna Stewart Memorial Project details The Anna Stewart Memorial Project is a week-long development program, during which women from diverse workplaces and occupations spend time together discussing work and issues that affect them. There is no charge for attending the course but participants do need to apply through their union for paid leave to attend or make other leave arrangements with the employer.
The aim of this project is to: •
Give women the tools and training to take on leadership roles within their unions and workplaces.
•
Discuss the particular needs of female union members and the difference women leaders can make to the development and growth of their union.
•
Teach women about workplace issues such as discrimination, awards, agreements, wages, superannuation, politics, history, feminism and workplace laws that affect working women.
This year’s Anna Stewart Memorial Project will run from 19-23 October.
The project is a mix of training sessions, discussion, presentations from influential women in unions and politics, plus a day of work placement with union organisers.
The project is a memorial to former union official Anna Stewart, who passed away in 1983, aged 35.
Applications to participate in this year’s Anna Stewart Memorial Project are due by Friday 28 August.
Her involvement with the union movement began at a time when women’s work was poorly paid and lacked job security and recognition.
In submitting your expression of interest to this project, please ensure that you have conditional approval from your line manager as per your relevant general agreement.
Women still experience job insecurity and low pay and are often under-represented in decision making and leadership positions.
For more information visit sstuwa.org.au/scholarships Western Teacher
August 2020
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Issues
Pay freezes could further recession New research from the Australia Institute’s Centre for Future Work reveals the consequences of freezing public service pay, both for public sector workers and for the broader economy. Governments are devoting unprecedented resources to protecting Australians against the health and economic effects of the pandemic, but a contradictory push to adopt fiscal austerity measures is also becoming apparent. Leaders of governments at all levels – federal, state and local council – have already announced plans to freeze wages and cancel previously agreed pay raises for public servants. The Centre’s key research findings were: •
At least 35 per cent of the purported savings from freezing public service pay is offset by the loss of direct tax revenues that would have been collected as a result of higher income and spending by public servants. And considering other tax revenue losses from the resulting slowdown in broader wage growth, even more of those savings are never realised.
•
Pay freezes in the public sector spill over into weaker economy-wide wage growth through three key channels: a composition effect, a demonstration effect and a macroeconomic effect.
•
Freezing pay for even short periods reduces the lifetime income and superannuation savings of public sector workers by tens of thousands of dollars, because it permanently reduces their lifetime wage trajectory.
•
16
A six month pay freeze for a typical federal Australian public service worker will reduce career earnings by an estimated $23,500, and superannuation accumulations by another $4,000 or more. The longer two-year freeze contemplated for Brisbane local council workers would reduce career earnings by over $100,000, and superannuation accumulations by $17,500. Western Teacher
August 2020
•
Misguided public sector wage restraint in the aftermath of the global financial crisis (GFC) short-circuited an initial recovery in private-sector wage trends in 2010-11, and helped lock in a lasting deceleration of national wages after 2013. Since then Australia has experienced the slowest sustained wage growth in the entire post-war era.
“Pay freezes are being imposed at the very moment when public sector workers such as healthcare workers, first responders, teachers and social service providers are performing vital tasks, at personal risk to themselves, to support Australians through the pandemic,” said Dr Jim Stanford, Director of the Centre for Future Work. “Freezing pay for these essential workers is not just morally questionable – it’s also a major economic mistake. “The motivation for public sector wage austerity seems more ideological than fiscal or economic: pay freezes are justified with appeals to ‘shared sacrifice,’ and a symbolic desire to ‘tighten the purse strings’ at a moment when governments are about to incur their largest deficits in history. “However, our research shows these arbitrary pay freezes are both unfair and economically counterproductive.
“Government policy should be driven by economic reality, not political optics. “Public sector wage austerity imposed after the GFC helped ‘lock in’ historically slow wage growth in the private sector in the years that followed. Since then, wages in Australia have grown at their slowest sustained rate in the post-war era. “Australia cannot tolerate a further deceleration of wage and price inflation. Inflation was already close to zero, chronically falling below the RBA’s (Reserve Bank of Australia) inflation target, even before the economy was hit by the double shock of bushfires and COVID-19. “Economy-wide deflation is associated with long-term depression. Australia cannot risk letting any COVID-19 recession turn into a depression. At this pivotal moment, governments’ priority should be anchoring price expectations, supporting nominal incomes and contributing to aggregate demand. “Normal wage gains should be implemented in the public sector and encouraged in the private sector.” The new report from the Centre for Future Work, The Same Mistake Twice: The SelfDefeating Consequences of Public Sector Pay Freezes, by Troy Henderson and Dr Stanford, can be downloaded from bit.ly/2OOigMt
Elections
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS SSTUWA COMMITTEE ELECTIONS AT NOVEMBER 2020 STATE COUNCIL Nominations for positions on the following SSTUWA Committees are now open: (a)
UnionsWA Council (1 year term) Fifteen (15) Delegates to be elected plus the President and General Secretary who are automatic ex-officio members.
(b)
Dispute Resolution Committee (1 year term) Twelve (12) Committee members are required to form the basis of the Dispute Resolution Committee from which three members’ names will be drawn by lot to form the Committee as and when required. No member of the Executive may nominate. Nominations open: 9.00am 10 August 2020 Nominations close: 5.00pm Wednesday 9 September 2020
Nominations must be in the hands of the Returning Officer by 5.00pm Wednesday 9 September 2020 Should more nominations than vacancies be received, a draw for ballot positions will occur at 12 noon, Thursday 10 September, at the Union Office, 1 West St. West Perth WA 6005. Nominees or scrutineers wishing to attend must give the Returning Officer 24 hours notice. If a ballot is necessary, State Council members will vote on Saturday 14 November 2020 between 8.00am and 8.45am during the 2020 State Council meeting. All nominees must be financial members of the Union and must be proposed and seconded by financial members. Nominees must sign their acceptance of nomination and date their nomination form or letter. Nomination forms can be downloaded from the Union website: http://www.sstuwa.org.au/nomination
All names must be supported by Union identification numbers (ID), written clearly, and show worksite. Preferred name for ballot paper should be shown by nominee. Facsimile nominations are acceptable, provided originals are forwarded without delay as confirmation. Ian Stringall SSTUWA RETURNING OFFICER 10 July 2020
Western Teacher
August 2020
17
Issues
Celebrating Wear it Purple Day By Colleen Mack Women and equity officer
Wear it Purple Day falls on Friday 28 August and is about showing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/gender diverse, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) young people that they have the right to be proud of who they are. The day strives to foster supportive, safe, empowering and inclusive environments for rainbow young people and those questioning their sexuality or gender identity. The theme for 2020 is “We are the change�. Wear it Purple Day started in 2010 when several rainbow young people took their lives due to bullying and harassment over their sexuality or gender identity.
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Today 75 per cent of LGBTIQ+ youth will be bullied because of their identity and 80 per cent of this happens at school. The result is that LGBTIQ+ youth are 12 times more likely to experience depression and five times more likely to experience anxiety. Is your school or TAFE a safe place where LGBTIQ+ young people are seen and supported? We hope so. Wear it Purple Day is a special day to remind us to let everyone see respect, acceptance and inclusion. Having a special event at your school or TAFE helps show LGBTIQ+ youth they are supported and belong.
Schools that register an event by 17 August will receive a free Wear it Purple Day pack. See wearitpurple.org for more ideas, resources and information. Inclusive Education provides free professional development to principals, teachers and support staff, and support, advice and resources to metro, regional and remote schools. Visit their website at: bit.ly/2X1NUcn Visit the Equal Opportunity Commission WA website for resources for school staff, as well as the sexuality and gender based bullying in schools fact sheets for parents and care givers, students and staff at bit.ly/3gBe6U4 and bit.ly/31Zj8pC Be part of a movement that will help save lives.
Western Teacher
August 2020
Issues
Keep schools safe sanctuaries of learning Schools have been targets in warfare and of terrorism. In conflict areas around the world, students and teachers have been victims of violent attacks while in school. In other parts of the world, schools and universities have not always been safe sanctuaries either. Tragic school shootings in the United States, Europe and other places have shown the vulnerability of educational institutions, particularly in countries without adequate arms control. But schools do not only require protection against violence coming from outside.
186 children, with 783 injured (CNN, 2018). Another horrific event that shook the world community was the kidnapping of 276 female students from the Government Secondary School in the town of Chibok in Borno State, Nigeria. On the night of 14–15 April 2014, Boko Haram, an extremist terrorist organisation based in north-eastern Nigeria, abducted the girls, apparently hoping to use them as negotiating pawns in exchange for some of their commanders in jail. Fifty-seven of the schoolgirls managed to escape over the next few months. As of May 2018, 104 girls had been freed but more than 100 are still being held (Searcey & Akinwotu, 2018).
Just as important are schools’ own policies and measures to ban violence by students and to create a safe learning environment protecting students against bigotry and bullying.
Between 2013 and 2017, there were more than 12,700 attacks, harming more than 21,000 students and educators in at least 70 countries, according to a study by the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA) in 2018.
“Some men came to our village. I tried to escape, but they took me to jail. Except it wasn’t a jail – it was my old school. It’s ironic – they took me there to torture me, in the same place I used to go to school to learn… They had taken over the school and made it into a torture centre.”1
Targeted killings, rape, abduction, child recruitment, intimidation, threats, military occupation, and destruction of property were just some of the ways in which education was being attacked.
-15-year-old Syrian student It was the worst school massacre ever. It occurred on 1 September 2004. Islamic terrorists, demanding recognition of the independence of Chechnya, raided a school in Beslan, a small town in the Russian province of North Ossetia-Alania. The school hostage crisis lasted three days. It involved the imprisonment of over 1,100 people as hostages, including 777 children. On the third day of the standoff, Russian security forces stormed the building with tanks, incendiary rockets and other heavy weapons. Three hundred thirty-four people were killed, including 20
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August 2020
In 28 countries profiled in its report, at least 20 attacks on education occurred over the last five years. In 2015, the GCPEA developed the “Safe Schools Declaration” and “Guidelines for Protecting Schools and Universities from Military Use During Armed Conflict”. As of April 2019, countries had endorsed the Declaration.2
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. The shooting sparked nationwide student protests against inadequate gun laws. Although the protests attracted attention, including among politicians, they did not result in stricter gun regulations. In the 12 months since the Parkland shooting, there have been at least 31 incidents at K-12 schools in the United States in which someone was shot, according to CNN. “That averages a shooting every 11.8 days. In those shootings 19 people were killed and another 44 were injured” (Griggs & Walker, 2019). School shootings have not just occurred in the US. There have also been serious school incidents in Russia, Germany, UK, Canada, Japan and in some other countries – with heavy death tolls. But there is no country where schools are as frequently hit by gunfire as in the United States.
The attacks recorded by the GCPEA do not include school shootings, most of which are perpetrated by troubled individuals on suicide missions.
Strict gun laws, drastically restricting the availability and possession of firearms, would seem to be the only effective way to reduce the risk of harm to school children and education personnel.
On 14 February 2018, a 19-year-old youngster gunned down 17 people at
Schools must be safe, and they must be free from fear. This implies much more
Issues than measures by public authorities protecting them from terrorism, warfare and shootings. In too many places, school buildings are poorly constructed or maintained, creating hazardous situations. Three examples. One: Nigeria. On 14 March 2019, 20 people, most of them children, died when their school building in Lagos, Nigeria, collapsed. According to officials, the private school was operating illegally on the top two floors of a residential building. Two: The Caribbean. Education unions reported in 2017 that the neglect of school building maintenance, inadequate sanitary facilities, mould-infested classrooms, crumbling asbestos rooftops, and unprotected power lines were creating serious health and safety hazards in their schools. Three: USA. Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), warned in a mail to the AFT’s members on 10 May 2019: “Across the country, too many students are trying to learn in cramped, overcrowded classrooms with mold and rodents. They’re reading outdated textbooks and writing reports on broken computers. Their teachers are sinking their own insufficient paychecks into classroom supplies. Our communities need safe, strong, fully resourced schools so we can give every kid a fair shot.”
Schools need to be sanctuaries, places where there is no tolerance for intolerance and where children can escape from difficult environments at home or on the streets. The environment must be one of respect, free from all forms of violence, harassment and bullying. Schools should provide a stress-free learning environment.
Stress is becoming a major health hazard for both students and teachers. Highpressure management methods and types of competition that are destructive boost the stress for both. The school, after all, is one community of the learners and the teachers. Their interaction should lower, not raise, stress levels, make learning possible and make schools safer. Regardless of the explanation for why schools are unsafe, whether it is the danger of physical attack and violence or bullying or a tense, contentious, and stressful environment, a climate of fear will, obviously, not be a good climate for learning. Widespread fear can also make it nearly impossible for democracy to function. If education is to inculcate democratic values, encourage critical thinking, promote free dialogue and develop the competencies for active citizenship, education, like democracy itself, must take place in protected environments. UNICEF and UNESCO jointly promote “rights-respecting schools”, which includes a safe school culture.3 In the United States, the Department of Health and Human Services maintains an informational website that shows that every US state has laws, policies or regulations that require districts and schools to implement an anti-bullying policy and procedures to investigate and respond to bullying when it occurs.4 There are many other initiatives creating awareness in schools and communities about bullying and harassment prevention, which includes the “Stand 4 Change Day”, when all school communities are invited to stand together for five minutes around noon to commit to create a safe teaching and learning environment. Another initiative is the “Safe Schools Coalition Australia (SSCA)” which was established as a national network of organisations working with school communities to create safer and more inclusive environments for LGBTI and
gender diverse students, staff and families. In India, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Kailash Satyarthi started the Bharat Yatra, a March to End Sexual Abuse and Trafficking of Children. The march, which covered more than 11,000 km across 22 states and union territories from 11 September to 16 October 2017, stopped at many schools and universities where, at the invitation of Kailash, hundreds of thousands of students and teachers made a solemn pledge to protect the safety of their peers. In that same year Kailash launched the “100 Million Campaign”5 an international campaign encouraging groups of young citizens in schools, universities and local districts around the globe to act to ensure that every child in their community and the world is safe, free and educated. These groups are led by the young people themselves with support provided by educators. Groups have been established across the world from Ghana to Chile, and from Liberia to India, to campaign against injustices and exploitation of children locally and globally. 100 Million is aiming to become the largest youth campaign in the world by 2022.
References and footnotes 1.
Report by a 15-year-old student from Syria (GCPEA, 2015, p. 7).
2.
See https://ssd.protectingeducation.org
3.
For more information about rightsrespecting schools, visit https://www.unicef.org.uk/rightsrespecting-schools/the-rrsa/
4.
See https://www.stopbullying.gov/laws/ index.html
5.
To learn more about the 100 million campaign and how to get involved visit www.100million.org
The above text is an excerpt from On Education & Democracy (2019) by Susan Hopgood and Fred van Leeuwen. The book contains 25 lessons from the teaching profession for educators. This is one of six lessons that have been identified by the SSTUWA as a key organisational objectives following November State Council Conference 2019. This article has been edited for clarity and brevity. The full article and book can be read at: bit.ly/2w4kNvW
Western Teacher
August 2020
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Issues
Public schools funding crisis as private schools benefit New analysis of Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) data by Trevor Cobbold from Save our Schools Australia (SOS) shows that funding inequality has been exacerbated under the Morrison Government’s funding legislation and special deals for private schools. Government funding increases continue to massively favour private schools over public schools, according to figures from ACARA. As a result, Catholic and Independent schools are far better resourced than public schools in every state even though public schools enrol over 80 per cent of all disadvantaged students and 95 per cent of all disadvantaged schools are public schools. This funding trend is set to continue under current funding arrangements and more special deals for private schools from the Morrison Government. This is a recipe for continuing educational, social and economic inequality. “This is a shameful indictment on the Morrison Government’s school funding legislation funding agreements and special deals, which have privileged the private school sector instead of delivering funding to the schools in most need,” AEU Federal President Correna Haythorpe said. “The Morrison Government says that it supports needs-based funding, yet it has overtly favoured private schools with special deals that have resulted in funding growth which has rapidly outstripped that of the public sector over the past decade.” SOS Australia’s analysis and report follows.
Total income Catholic and Independent schools are far better resourced than public schools. In 2018, income per student in Catholic and Independent schools was much higher than for public schools in 2018. 22
Western Teacher
August 2020
The average total income per student in public schools in Australia was $14,940 compared to $23,029 per student in Independent schools and $16,401 in Catholic schools [Chart 1].
for inflation (“real” income), of private
The total income per student of Catholic and Independent schools exceeded that of public schools in all states.
schools increased by $2,585 (16.9 per
Between 2009 and 2018, the increase in total income per student, adjusted
increase of only $241 (2.1 per cent) per
schools was nine to 10 times higher than for public schools. The real total income of Independent cent) per student and by $2,096 (19.7 per cent) in Catholic schools compared to an student in public schools [Chart 2].
Issues Commonwealth funding increases for private schools far exceeded that for public schools in every state except for Independent schools in the Northern Territory. The increases were over double that for public schools in several states. The states cut their real funding for public schools by $330 (-3.7 per cent) per student while increasing funding for Catholic schools by $118 (6 per cent) per student and $166 (9.5 per cent) for Independent schools. Every state government except Victoria cut its funding for public schools while five governments increased their funding for Catholic schools and six increased funding for Independent schools.
Real total income per student in private schools increased by large amounts in all states. Real income in public schools fell by large amounts in Western Australia, the ACT and the Northern Territory and the increases in the other states were far less than in private schools. The increase in the resource advantage of private schools was due to much larger Commonwealth funding increases for Catholic and Independent schools than for public schools, a significant cut in state and territory government funding for public schools and increased income from fees and other sources for private schools. Government funding increases have been pivotal in ensuring that private schools have far more teacher and physical resources than public schools. Government funding accounted for 77 per cent of the increase in Catholic school income and 62 per cent of the increase for Independent schools.
Government funding changes massively favoured private schools in all states. Catholic and Independent schools received large funding increases in all states while public schools in NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania received much smaller increases and funding was cut for public schools in Western Australia, the ACT and the Northern Territory. The increase in real Commonwealth funding for private schools was over twice that for public schools. Catholic school funding increased by $1,502 (26.2 per cent) per student and for Independent schools by $1,427 (31.5 per cent) compared to $637 (39.7 per cent) for public schools.
Public schools bear the large burden of disadvantage Government funding increases have favoured advantage over disadvantage. Public schools enrol the vast majority of disadvantaged students; disadvantaged students in public schools comprise a much higher proportion of total enrolments than in private schools; nearly all disadvantaged schools are public schools. In 2018, public schools enrolled 82 per cent of all low SES students; 84 per cent of Indigenous students, 77 per cent of high disability students and 82 per cent of remote area students [Chart 4]. Disadvantaged students accounted for 46 per cent of all public school enrolments compared to 20 per cent in private schools. (continued on page 24)
Government funding The increase in real government funding for Catholic and Independent schools between 2009 and 2018 was over five times that for public schools. Catholic school funding increased by $1,620 (21 per cent) per student and by $1,603 (25.4 per cent) for Independent schools compared to only $306 (2.9 per cent) per student in public schools [Chart 3]. Western Teacher
August 2020
23
Issues (continued from page 23) Moreover, 95 per cent of schools with 50 per cent or more students from the lowest socio-economic status (SES) quartile were public schools, three per cent were Catholic schools and two per cent were Independent schools [Chart 5].
Private schools are in clover The priority given to funding advantaged students and schools over disadvantaged students and schools is set to continue indefinitely. Several special funding arrangements will ensure that private schools continue to receive large funding increases beyond 2018 regardless of need while public schools are condemned to remain underfunded. Under the current Commonwealth/state funding agreements, public schools will only ever be funded at 91 per cent of their Schooling Resource Standard at most while private schools will be funded at or over 100 per cent from 2023. The Morrison Government is providing a $3.4 billion funding boost to private schools over 10 years through its direct income measure of parent capacity to contribute in private schools. This amount was announced before the direct income measure was even determined. A report by the Senate Education and Employment Legislation Committee unequivocally showed that its financial cost was never properly calculated. Evidence presented to the committee showed there is no rational basis to the figure. In addition, it will provide private schools with an increase of $1.2 billion over 10 years by way of its Choice and Affordability slush fund. In his memoirs A Bigger Picture, former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the fund was introduced by 24
Western Teacher
August 2020
the Morrison Government “without any particular rationale, other than as a way of buying some peace” with private schools.
must be rectified. It is a joint responsibility
The Morrison Government is also providing over $200 million in special assistance funding for private schools over several years from 2019.
public schools have the resources needed
It includes transitional assistance to the new direct income measure of capacity to contribute, drought assistance, hygiene assistance for COVID-19 and adjustment assistance for ACT private schools. None of this funding is available to public schools.
in his analysis: “Public schools face
“This analysis shows the deep inequality that exists under the Morrison Government’s school funding legislation and must be an urgent call to action for all governments to address the growing funding gaps for public schools,” Ms Haythorpe said. “Prime Minister Scott Morrison has delivered a new age of school inequality. This is set to continue due to the many special deals his government has provided to private schools. “Public schools teach the vast majority of students, including 80 per cent of students from disadvantaged backgrounds, who have the highest level of need. “For every child to achieve their full potential, Australia’s funding inequality
between the Commonwealth and state and territory governments to ensure that to cater for the educational needs of every child.” SOS Convenor Trevor Cobbold states the prospect of being underfunded indefinitely. Under the current arrangements, Commonwealth funding increases will continue to heavily favour private schools for at least the next 10 years while the states will continue to underfund public schools and overfund private schools.” “Cumulative under-funding of public schools will amount to about $60 billion over the period 2018 to 2027 under the current Commonwealth/state funding agreements,” he continued. “As a result, the large majority of disadvantaged students are condemned to an inferior education than their advantaged peers. “It is an appalling social injustice that will continue the reproduction of educational, social and economic inequality. It will also restrict Australia’s economic growth and prosperity.”
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National education and union news
National education and union news Unions launch plan for jobs led reconstruction Over a million secure jobs would be created or supported under a comprehensive and bold economic reconstruction plan to help steer Australia through and recover from the COVID-19 crisis. ACTU President Michele O’Neil (pictured) said currently the federal government had no plan to rebuild the economy and steer the country through the next stages of this crisis. “We have five practical programs to deliver jobs, services, training and infrastructure for the people, places and industries who need them,” she said. The five programs in summary are:
1: Early Childhood Education and Care Strategy The Early Childhood Education and Care Strategy has several components including: • The provision of permanently free childcare. • Capital investment to construct new high quality publicly funded not-forprofit facilities. • The funding of universal access to 15 hours of preschool for three and four year olds. • And an extension and improvement of the current wage subsidy to support the ongoing employment of staff in this sector.
2: Training for Reconstruction • A new nation-wide free TAFE program supporting 150,000 places, which would also support 10,000 jobs in the TAFE system.
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• TAFE put back at the centre of Commonwealth and state government training funding, with 70 per cent of all government funding being directed to TAFE. • A Rebuilding TAFE fund – updating and modernising facilities with a particular focus in regional areas. • Commonwealth wage subsides for up to 100,000 apprentices and trainees for the life of their apprenticeship/ traineeship and a guaranteed job at the end. • And to assist our higher education sector, the Commonwealth government must extend JobKeeper wage subsidies to universities (which are currently excluded from the program) through the 2020 academic year, thus helping to protect another 20,000 higher education jobs at risk from the current crisis in international education.
3: Rediscover Australia The Rediscover Australia plan will support 350,000 jobs in tourism, the arts, accommodation, travel and regional services over the next 12 months, with key elements including: • Commonwealth sponsorship of artistic, community, agricultural and entertainment events, productions and exhibitions in all states.
• The Commonwealth for a 12-month period to take over payment of regular state payroll taxes for paid employees in two industries critical to domestic travel and tourism (passenger transportation and overnight accommodation).
4: National Reconstruction Investment Plan • Funding of $30 billion per year to significantly boost investment in public capital projects including funding for transportation, community and public housing, cultural and public service facilities, forest and fire management investments to better prepare for future fire seasons, and renewable energy assets and efficiency upgrades.
• Additional grant support for the Australia Council, to support grant recipients with emergency financial requirements arising from the COVID-19 shutdowns.
• The National Reconstruction Investment Plan would support the creation of 75,000 direct jobs in construction and over 100,000 additional indirect jobs in supply and consumer industries.
• Expansion of JobKeeper wage subsidy provisions to include arts and entertainment workers.
• Strong benchmarks for mandated Australian made content in founded projects.
National education and union news
5: Sustainable Manufacturing Strategy • Government rules to ensure Australian made products in all new infrastructure and public service procurement.
energy conservation plans. • Expanded Commonwealth investments in rapid decarbonisation of the energy sector.
• Zero interest loans for new renewable energy developments with a direct link to manufacturing.
• Technology grants to support commercialised research and development.
• Support for large gas and electricity users to upgrade equipment as part of
• Five new Sustainable Manufacturing Clusters in key areas including:
lithium battery and value-added manufacturing; renewable hydrogen production; green primary metal manufacturing; electric vehicle manufacturing and servicing; and renewable energy machinery. • A Superpower Investment Fund to undertake co-investments (including public equity shares) in new sustainable manufacturing activities.
PM’s VET funding boost must be invested in TAFE Only by investing in TAFE can the Morrison Government provide the skills that Australia will need to create jobs, opportunities and recover from the economic costs of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the AEU. AEU Deputy Federal President Meredith Peace said that it was essential that the recent announcement of the combined $1 billion federal, state and territory JobTrainer subsidy increase to boost Vocational Education and Training (VET) was focused on delivering high-quality education through public TAFE. “TAFE is Australia’s respected quality provider of vocational education. It has the established infrastructure, community and industry links to put this funding to
best use and to provide the opportunity and high-quality qualifications to deliver the skills Australia needs to recover from COVID-19,” she said.
The recent JobTrainer funding announcement will only replace approximately one-third of what has been cut by Coalition governments since 2013.
“We need to invest in TAFE as the anchor institution of vocational education, to ensure that it is the centrepiece of the effort to rebuild Australia’s economy.”
A recent survey of over 1,400 TAFE staff, the AEU’s 2020 State of our TAFEs survey (covered on page 12), showed that more than three-quarters of TAFE staff had considered leaving in the past three years, due to the impact of the billions of dollars of Commonwealth and state and territory budget cuts.
Since 2013, the Federal Coalition has: • Cut $3 billion from vocational education. • Overseen 140,000 fewer apprentices now than when it was elected. • Cut a further $325.8 million in funding from TAFE and vocational education budgets in 2019.
The survey also revealed major fundingrelated issues with workload, resourcing and lack of staff support. To read more visit: bit.ly/2X5Ock1
Report into gig economy reveals human cost of insecure work Rates of gig economy work have been increasing, and this type of work is just one part of the expansion of insecure work in Australia, according to the damning findings of a landmark report into the socalled gig economy in Victoria. The report reveals that employers have used apps to deliberately deny workers their basic rights, including minimum wages, sick days and protections against being unfairly dismissed. The ACTU has called on the Morrison Government to act to protect people in insecure work, saying it has the ability to tighten legislation to ensure employers’
compliance with workplace laws. Secretary Sally McManus said so-called gig economy workers had less rights than workers 100 years ago. “They deserve the same rights as all other Australian workers,” she said. “By allowing these workers to be exploited by their employers and by the so-called gig economy system, our government is not only turning their back on the workers and their families, but is also creating an unfair system for employers who have to compete against these companies.
“These companies are racing to the bottom by deliberately eroding workplace rights and protections for workers. “Insecure work is rampant in Australia. This report demonstrates that insecure work arrangements go beyond just casual employment. “Each and every form of insecure work is a danger to the economic safety and security of Australian workers and should be urgently addressed by the Morrison Government.” Download the report from: bit.ly/30vfotF Western Teacher
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Education and Training Centre
Education & Training Centre Online learning opportunities in Terms 3 and 4 Join the SSTUWA online community and participate in a range of great hour-long live events. Each event offers an opportunity to interact with educators from across Australia. You will be able to chat and interact with presenters and other participants, as well as download valuable handouts and resources. Enjoy the flexibility of completing your professional learning from your own home or office. The SSTUWA is proud to continue to partner with the Teacher Learning Network in Melbourne to provide these outstanding learning opportunities. Close to 500 members have participated in online professional events so far this year. Browse the topics and give it a go! Course title
Audience
Date
Time
Supporting Students with Challenging Behaviours in ECE
ECE
Wednesday 19 August
6-7pm
Understanding Treaty within the Education Community
Secondary
Tuesday 8 September
3-4pm
Coding Skills for Educators
All
Tuesday 29 September
8-9am
Communicating as a Leader: Challenging Conversations with Students
New and aspirant leaders
Wednesday 30 September
8-9.30am
Communicating as a Leader: Challenging Conversations with Colleagues
New and aspirant leaders
Wednesday 30 September
10-11.30am
Communicating as a Leader: Challenging Conversations with Parents
New and aspirant leaders
Wednesday 30 September
12-1.30pm
Mental Health in Early Childhood
ECE
Wednesday 14 October
3.30-4.30pm
Utilising Differentiation in the Classroom
All
Tuesday 20 October
2-3pm
Managing Critical Incidents in the Classroom
Secondary and TAFE
Tuesday 20 October
2-3pm
“I really enjoyed the accessibility and the subject matter and expert opinions. It was also helpful to have the experience of additional teachers from all over Australia who worked in many diverse environments. The Adobe Connect site is easy and accessible to use.� - Gail Barton, SSTUWA member
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Education and Training Centre
Keeping members connected Industrial modules online at SSTUWA During Term 2, SSTUWA Education Officer Cherry Bogunovich conducted an inaugural online industrial training event for union representatives and deputy representatives from across the state. Delegates joined Cherry in cyberspace to connect with each other and to learn about the role of a rep in schools. Participants as far as the Kimberley, Pilbara and the Great Southern, as well as some metro schools, accessed Trade Union Training to engage with each other to explore: • The role and structure of the SSTUWA. • The responsibilities of branch members and the roles they play. • How to access union resources to support their leadership role in the branch. Cherry said the 90 mins was an effective way to bring together reps from across remote and regional areas, as well as some local schools. “Keeping us all connected and sharing ideas was beneficial,” she said. The online event does not replace current two-day, face-to-face union rep training offered through the SSTUWA, but it was of benefit to new reps, particularly those working in regional and remote areas. Each participant committed themselves to some immediate action after the event. Many will download the app, others will re-create a union noticeboard, some will encourage other reps to participate in a similar online industrial training event. Congratulations to all participants and thanks for being part of this exciting event. We look forward to seeing you at the SSTUWA for more in-depth, face-to-face training in the future.
“Superb. A very convenient way to have a meeting.”
“I found it very informative and a wonderful platform.”
“Great, convenient, concise and a good length.”
- Geoff Robinson, Dayellup Primary School.
- Lesley Wright, Pilbara Engagement Centre.
- Katrina Boshammer, East Kimberley College.
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Member benefits
Member benefits Accountants and Financial Advisers Aston Accountants
10% discount on personal income tax returns for members.
sstuwa.org.au/aston
Industry Fund Services
Specialist financial products for union members.
sstuwa.org.au/ifs
LIFE Financial Planners
$1,200 off your statement of advice fee plus a free financial health check for members.
sstuwa.org.au/lifefinancial
Teacher Tax
$99 tax returns for members.
sstuwa.org.au/teachertax
TIPS Financial Services
$1,100 discount on your TIPS Transition to Retirement strategy or Retirement plan. Exclusive to members.
sstuwa.org.au/tipsfs
Banking ME Bank
Special offers throughout the year for members. A bank built by, and for, union members.
sstuwa.org.au/mebank
Mortgages, Money and Me
Complimentary advice, property reports, finance tools and more for SSTUWA members.
sstuwa.org.au/mmme
OFX Money Transfers
When it matters, OFX it. Save with the experts in international money transfers.
sstuwa.org.au/ofx
Teachers Mutual Bank
Banking exclusively for the education community.
AutoBahn
Mechanical and electrical services. Members receive $20 off any service or 5% off any repair.
PLE Computers Save on your IT with access to the PLE Computers academic portal.
sstuwa.org.au/autobahn
sstuwa.org.au/ple
Bayswater Mazda
The Good Guys Commercial
Exclusive offer including $500 fuel card, 4 years free service and more.
sstuwa.org.au/bayswatermazda
Bob Jane T-Marts
Online access to live discounted pricing on The Good Guys’ full range.
sstuwa.org.au/thegoodguys
National fleet pricing on a range of products and services.
Educational Resources
easifleet
A Thinking and Caring Approach. By Barrie Bennett and Peter Smilanich.
sstuwa.org.au/bobjane
Bose headphones or Bluetooth speaker, or a year’s worth of Magic Hand car washes with any easifleet procured novated lease.
sstuwa.org.au/easifleet
Fleet Network
Package your next car and save on tax. Bonus Samsung 8” tablet or Dash Cam with vehicle delivery.
Classroom Management
sstuwa.org.au/classroommgmt
Effective Group Work Beyond Cooperative Learning. By Barrie Bennett.
sstuwa.org.au/effectivegroupwork
sstuwa.org.au/fleetnetwork
Graphic Intelligence
Hertz
Possibilities for Assessment and Instruction. By Barrie Bennett.
5-10% discount on vehicle hire in Australia, NZ, USA and Canada.
sstuwa.org.au/hertz
Motor Market by Union Shopper
You choose the car, then we find you the lowest price.
sstuwa.org.au/motormarket
Thrifty Car and Truck Rental
10% discount on vehicle hire in Australia.
sstuwa.org.au/thrifty
tyresales.com.au
sstuwa.org.au/graphicintelligence
Instructional Intelligence Building Instructional Expertise for the Classroom. An SSTUWA project in collaboration with Barrie Bennett.
sstuwa.org.au/instructionalintelligence
Teacher Superstore 5-10% discount, in store and online.
10% discount on tyres.
sstuwa.org.au/teachersuperstore
Western Motor Vehicle Consultants
Entertainment
sstuwa.org.au/tyresales We’ll find a car you’ll love. Save time and money when sourcing your next vehicle.
sstuwa.org.au/westernmotors
Computers Altronics
Adventure World Save up to $14.50 on Adventure World tickets with Westclub.
sstuwa.org.au/adventureworld
Movie tickets
sstuwa.org.au/tmbank
Build it yourself electronics centre. VIP trade discount in store and online.
Cars
sstuwa.org.au/altronics
Discounts on physical tickets (greater savings) and instant digital tickets.
Apple on Campus
sstuwa.org.au/movietickets
sstuwa.org.au/apple
Rockface
Allwest Fleet
Vehicle salary packaging – save time, money and tax. Receive a $300 gift card with your new car.
sstuwa.org.au/allwestfleet
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Massive discounts on products and services for SSTUWA members
Western Teacher August 2020
For details visit:
Dell
Indoor rock climbing in Balcatta. $15 all day climbing pass with harness hire.
sstuwa.org.au/dell
sstuwa.org.au/rockface
Save up to 15% off selected items.
Member benefits *Terms & conditions apply.
Please visit our website for full details.
For more information visit sstuwa.org.au/benefits and the benefits tab of the SSTUWA App Food and Wine Campbells
Access wholesale prices with a complimentary day pass.
sstuwa.org.au/campbells
Cellar d’Or
Best value winery tour in the Margaret River Region. 10% discount for members.
sstuwa.org.au/cellardor
Cracka Wines
7.5% off online wine orders.
sstuwa.org.au/cracka
Taste Bud Tours
Swan Valley “Speed Grazing” – 20% discount. Good Food, Wine & Cider (am) or Good Food, Wine & Beer (pm).
sstuwa.org.au/tastebudtours
Health and Wellbeing St John
SSTUWA Legal Services
Access to quality legal services for both work-related and personal matters.
sstuwa.org.au/legal
Teachers Health Fund
Join the thousands of teachers who have already made the switch.
sstuwa.org.au/teachershealth
Teachers Health – Travel
10% discount on travel insurance.
sstuwa.org.au/travelinsurance
STA Travel Insurance
$20 discount for members.
sstuwa.org.au/statravelinsurance
Shopping Abacus Educational Supplies
10% discount, in store and online.
sstuwa.org.au/abacus
First aid saves lives. Discounted first aid courses and kits for members.
Dot Mall
WA Opticians
sstuwa.org.au/dotmall
sstuwa.org.au/stjohn
20% discount on spectacle frames and lenses. Perth and East Perth.
sstuwa.org.au/waopticians
Housing
BBQs, heaters and backyard kitchens. 5% discount for members.
Electrical buying
Let Union Shopper find the best deal on your electrical purchases.
sstuwa.org.au/electricalbuying
Houspect
isubscribe
sstuwa.org.au/houspect
sstuwa.org.au/isubscribe
Buy, build and invest with confidence. $50 discount on building inspections.
Johns Building Supplies
Trade prices on paint and painters’ hardware. Builders prices on all other hardware lines.
sstuwa.org.au/jbs
Kleenheat
In appreciation of teachers’ support of the community, Kleenheat is offering SSTUWA members bigger savings on natural gas.
sstuwa.org.au/kleenheat
SkylightsWA
Specialising in skylights and roof ventilation, servicing all regions of WA. 7% discount off selected products.
sstuwa.org.au/skylightswa
Insurance and Legal ISinsured
Insurance for union members. Home, contents, car, landlords.
sstuwa.org.au/isinsured
Up to an extra 10% off any print and digital magazine subscription; over 4,000 titles.
Jackson’s Drawing Supplies
10% discount in Jackson’s 12 shops and online.
sstuwa.org.au/jacksons
Petals Flowers & Gifts
20% off flowers and gifts. World-wide delivery available.
sstuwa.org.au/petals
Retravision
Cost plus 5% on all products. Osborne Park location only; in store or via phone. Nation-wide delivery available.
sstuwa.org.au/retravision
Teacher Superstore
5-10% discount, in store and online.
sstuwa.org.au/teachersuperstore
The Good Guys Commercial
Online access to live discounted pricing on The Good Guys’ full range.
sstuwa.org.au/thegoodguys
Vet Products Direct
10% discount on pet products, plus advice from professionals.
sstuwa.org.au/vetpro
Travel and Accommodation Accor Hotels
Great savings for teachers at Accor Hotels in the Asia Pacific region.
sstuwa.org.au/accorhotels
Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels welcomes SSTUWA members with exclusive rates at locations in Australia and NZ.
sstuwa.org.au/choicehotels
Comfort Hotel Perth City
Rooms from $145 per night including Light Start Breakfast for two. Located near the WACA in East Perth.
sstuwa.org.au/comfortperth
Experience Oz
Save 10% on over 3,000 experiences across Oz + NZ.
sstuwa.org.au/experienceoz
Inn the Tuarts Guest Lodge
Forest retreat, 4-star, with indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and BBQ. Adults (12 years+) only. Five minutes to Busselton. Studios and rooms. 22.5% off rack rate or best available rate.
sstuwa.org.au/innthetuarts
Jarrah Grove Forest Retreat
Luxurious, self-contained accommodation in Margaret River. Discounted rates for members.
sstuwa.org.au/jarrahgrove
Mandurah Houseboats
10% discount on houseboat holidays.
sstuwa.org.au/houseboats
Rottnest ferry tickets
Save up to $18 on Rottnest ferry tickets with WestClub.
sstuwa.org.au/rottnest
STA Travel
Exclusive discounts for members.
sstuwa.org.au/statravel
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Classifieds
Classifieds For sale: Cooloongup
3x2 plus large utility room, fully powered workshop set amongst a quiet street and bushland. Large patio area and backyard for entertaining and family time. Offers from $350,000. EOI: 0401 847 317
For sale: Mandurah (Soldiers Cove)
$339,000. Sought after area, short walk to Mandurah Foreshore. A touch of art deco in this 1950s era 3x1 home on 809m2 block. Featuring high ceilings, decorative cornice and jarrah floor boards. Private street frontage with bus stop to Mandurah station out front. 6x4m workshop, 30 fruit trees, PV solar panels and solar hot water. buymyplace.com.au (property 5181804) 0449 183 499
Blocks for sale: Williams
Two blocks of land, side-by-side, 1,000sqm each. Walking distance to shops, school and all amenities. Buy both or just one – your choice. Easy getaway, close to Perth and Boddington. $27,500 each or better deal if you snap up both. 0402 349 203
Albany (Little Grove)
Dunsborough (Quindalup)
Large 4x2 holiday home on Geographe Bay Rd. Swimming beach 30m away. Free use of private boat mooring. Room to park boats with boat ramp a minute away. Slow combustion wood heater and reversecycle air-con. Available all year except for leavers’ vacation. No pets. 0419 943 203 | 9448 5527 a_r_moore@bigpond.com
Silent Grove Cottage. Self-contained two bedroom (queen/two singles) on two hectares of bushland. Undercover parking. Close to yacht club, walking/ bike trails, national park and beaches. Teachers’ rate: $150 per night. Stay seven, get one free. www.silentgrove.iinet.net.au 9844 4950 | merron@iinet.net
Dwellingup
Augusta
Floreat
3x1 spacious holiday rental. One double, one queen, five singles. 200m from the river and town. Magnificent river views. One large living area, three sided veranda and BBQ. Provide own linen and towels. $150 per night plus $50 cleaning fee. gregrowl@iinet.net.au
Cowaramup (Margaret River Region) Private B&B within newly built home. Parkland setting. Private queen bedroom, bathroom and breakfast room. Private entry and dedicated parking. 10 mins to Margaret River, Gracetown, central to wineries/breweries and beaches. $120 per night per couple including breakfast. Lee: 0412 902 932
Denmark
The Rise is a modern, comfortable, 3x2 fully equipped house close to town with elevated views. Located close to Scotsdale and Mt Shadforth drives and their many tourist attractions. Stay for 7 nights and pay for 6 nights. Bookings.denmark.com.au (property The Rise) (08) 9848 2055, 9am to 5pm
Après Huit and Dwell Cottage provide luxury self-contained accommodation set in beautifully landscaped gardens. Can be rented separately or together. Après Huit: 2x2, main house. Dwell Cottage: 1x1, furnished in a French theme. Robert: 0419 954 079 dwellcottage.com.au Studio B&B. New, stylish single room. Fridge, kitchenette, TV, aircon in lovely peaceful Floreat house and garden. Linen, tea/coffee, continental/cooked breakfast ingredients supplied. Suit mature person wishing to enjoy quiet accommodation. Close to city, buses, shops, hospitals and beaches. $85 per night, min two nights. Weekly and monthly rates available. SMS: 0422 333 057
France (South)
3x2 house located in quaint village adjacent to Canal du Midi - noted for having 300 days of sunshine per year and hence lots of vineyards. Spain is 1hr drive; Barcelona is 2hr drive. $700 per week. 0407 368 511 | craigrebecca@bigpond.com
Fremantle
Short term accommodation in central Fremantle. Recently refurbished with all conveniences for modern living. Townhouse has three queen-sized bedrooms plus provision for two singles. Enjoy time in the rear garden, complete with BBQ. Secure parking for two cars,
access controlled by electric gates. 9430 4458 | 0407 083 174 info@westerley.com.au
Kallaroo
Serenity Escape is a 2x1 apartment with full kitchen, offering comfort and convenience. 20 min walk to beach, 5 min drive to train station, walking distance to Whitfords Brewing Co, cinema and shops. Toiletries, slippers and coffee machine provided. Min 2 nights. Sleeps 4, or 5 with mattress. No pets. $125/night for 3 people; $10/night per extra person. Molly: 0428 166 559 mollysletters@gmail.com
Margaret River
Two bedrooms, private, comfortable, fully equipped stone cottage with fireplace, located amongst the forest opposite Boranup National Park, 17km south of Margaret River on Caves Road. Close to beaches, wineries, caves and galleries. $150 per night for two people, or provide own linen and towels for $120 per night. Russell: 0418 933 270
Mt Lawley/Dianella
Newly built 1x1 self-contained extension, furnished, with laundry, dining, lounge, kitchen and one undercover parking bay. Aircon, TV, fridge, washing machine and microwave included. Quiet residential area close to city, buses, Galleria Morley, Mt Lawley cafe strip and Northbridge. 10 min walk to Terry Tyzack Aquatic Centre; golf course across the road. $80 per night, min two nights. $50 per night for weekly and monthly rentals. 0439 964 239 | cymbie.burgoyne@gmail.com
Northam
Renovated, self-contained 30s-style three bedroom house with beautiful river views. Short walk across the bridges to town. Sleeps six-eight. Kevin: 0414 446 431
Email 50 words or fewer to editor@sstuwa.org.au with your phone and union membership numbers. Free for members. 32
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Classifieds
Classifieds Prevelly
One bedroom private spa apartment in quiet Prevelly cul-de-sac. Two minute walk from beach. Suits couples. $165 per night for Western Teacher readers. Lucy: lcartell@iinet.net.au
Trigg
Self contained accommodation. Kitchen, laundry, queen sized bed plus fold out double couch in lounge. Free WiFi and Netflix. Own entrance. Find us on Facebook. Kerry: 0409 884 330 | FB: @justriggin 67justriggin@gmail.com
Yallingup
Rammed earth cottage, 2x1, nestled amongst bushland. Well located, short walk to Studio Gallery Bistro, two-minute drive to Caves House. Beaches, galleries, wineries and restaurants close by. Sleeps six. No dogs. stayz.com.au (property 136151) Kirsty: 0419 927 660
Victoria (Jan Juc Beach)
Planning a holiday to Victoria? Stay on the beautiful Surf Coast, in between Torquay and the famous Bells Beach. Sleeps eight comfortably. Walking distance to the beach, golf club, shops and river mouth. Everything you need is already there. Large entertaining areas. Discount for Western Teacher readers. 0403 803 064
Discover the best of India
Bespoke guided tours. Choose: your itinerary; your dates; your inclusions; your ayurvedic/yoga retreat; your festivals; your budget. Your holiday, your way! Personalised information sessions – we come to you. H&M Luxury Tours ...creating memories! 0409 554 702 | support@luxetoursindia.com luxetoursindia.com
Tranquillity Counselling, Psychotherapy and Career Development
I provide holistic, confidential practical counselling to help you deal with an array of issues, some being: general relationship, mental health, anger issues/management,
anxiety, depression, self-harm, grief and trauma, addiction, abuse, palliative care. Milica Robinson, MCnsig&Psychthpy, GradCertCareerDev, BEd. 0422 358 187
or without a partner. Melville (LeisureFit) Recreation Centre. Mondays 7.30-9pm. $118/8 weeks. Beginners’ course held every term. Term 3 starts 27 July. Stan: 9330 6737 | stan@stansdancing.com
Retirement coach
First aid training for students
Are you recently retired or retiring soon? You probably have a financial plan in place but developing a plan for the non-financial side of retirement can be as important as preparing financially. I offer support and guidance for the transition from work to retirement, helping you to find purpose and meaning in retirement. Contact me to arrange an obligation free chat. retirementcoaching01@gmail.com
Marriage celebrant
Marriage celebrant with 12 years of experience, working in the Peel, South West and Perth areas. Specialising in creating personalised ceremonies for couples at their chosen wedding location. I’d love to help you plan your special day! Meridith: 0400 312 535 meri.lake4@gmail.com
Marriage celebrant
Heart Centered Ceremonies for couples wanting a personalised wedding. Lee will help you design your dream wedding – a memorable occasion. Mention this ad to receive a discount. Lee: 0404 655 567 leehalligancelebrant.com.au
Marriage celebrant
Experienced professional celebrant available, all areas. Formal or informal, large or small weddings. A Beautiful Ceremony will help you design an unforgettable and uniquely personal ceremony. Mary: 0418 906 391 maryburke40@hotmail.com
Learn to social dance
Learn jive, waltz, rumba, samba, tango and other dances for social events (ball, wedding, cruise, etc). A fun and easy course with quality instruction. Join with
St John Ambulance WA offers free first aid training to all school aged students, ranging from Triple 000 Hero for kindergarten students to Road Trauma First Aid for secondary school students. Courses are curriculum mapped. 9334 1259 | youth@stjohnambulance.com.au
MAWA
The Mathematical Association of Western Australia offers professional learning opportunities, conferences and consultancy services to teachers and schools and networks. MAWA members receive 10 per cent discount on MAWA shop resources. For more information: mawainc.org.au 9345 0388 | eo@mawainc.org.au
Calling all retired teachers!
Are you a retired teacher with a spirit of adventure and time to spare? Would you like to assist families in remote areas of WA? You may like to join REVISE WA as a tutor. For more info, visit www.revisewa.com.au
Belly Rubs Boarding Kennels
Personalised approach to boarding your canine companion. $25 per dog – mention you’re a teacher to receive a 10 per cent discount. Located in Southern River. Elisa: 0417 620 766 | FB: @bellyrubsboarding
Macramé is the new yoga
I'm a teacher running small group macramé classes in a cosy home studio. Join me and discover the power of mindfulness as you learn to engage your mind and your hands in a fun supportive environment. It's a powerful way to calm a busy mind. marcia@knotinlove.com.au
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Noticeboard
Noticeboard
Email to editor@sstuwa.org.au
Retired Teachers’ Association
Anna Stewart Memorial Project
We had a very welcome return to the SSTUWA location on 27 June. The lunch was a great success. The quarterly/AGM will be held on 27 September at 10am at the SSTUWA. The guest speaker will be John Viska who represents the Heritage Garden Society.
This year’s project will run from 19-23 October and is open to women union members. Participants will see how unions are organised, become involved in current union issues and campaigns whilst visiting workplaces. Applications are due to the SSTUWA by close of business Friday 28 August.
The literature on 24 August is to be Roy Browning on Australian children’s poems and verses. On 7 Sept it will be an own choice selection. And on 21 September Claire Gartner will discuss the World of Alan Marshall.
The choir is happily learning two new songs.
Ann Strauss: 9387 2906
State Council Conference
For more info and the application form, visit sstuwa.org.au/scholarships
Extraordinary vacancies
Lynette Virgona Scholarship
Items for November State Council must be received by 5pm Friday 25 September.
SSTUWA committee elections
Applications are now open for the Lynette Virgona Scholarship. The deadline for applications is Friday 25 September. More info: sstuwa.org.au/scholarships
The Public Good
More info: sstuwa.org.au/elections
2020 meeting dates: Saturdays, 10.30am-12.30pm at the SSTUWA premises
SSTUWA committee meeting dates:
Early Childhood Educators’ Committee
TAFE Committee
Time: 4.15pm 21 October
Term 3
Term 4
22 August
28 November
Venue subject to change. Visit www.l3cta.org.au for venue information and to confirm attendance, or email contact@l3cta.org.au
Find out more: thepublicgood.com.au
Venue: SSTUWA office | Contact: (08) 9210 6000 or contact@sstuwa.org.au Teleconference facilities are available
International Committee
LGBTIQ Committee
Time: 5pm
Time: 4.30pm
Time: 4pm
Dates to be confirmed
Dates to be confirmed
Dates to be confirmed
New Educator Committee
Women’s Committee
Psych Services Committee
ATSIE Committee
Time: 4.30pm
Time: 3.45pm
Time: 4.45pm
Time: 4pm
26 October
Dates to be confirmed
5 November
8 September
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Nominations are open until 5pm Wednesday 9 September.
Level 3 Classroom Teachers’ Association
UnionsWA, in collaboration with key public sector unions in WA – including the SSTUWA – and community supporters, has launched The Public Good campaign, which highlights the prominent and positive role that the public sector workforce plays in the lives of Western Australians.
Are you interested in becoming a UnionsWA Council delegate or Dispute Resolution Committee member?
Western Teacher
17 November
August 2020
We’ve made a promise. To be a champion for our teachers - the way they’re champions for our kids. So that even on days that feel a little tougher than usual, you can be sure someone’s there to care for your health and wellbeing.
Lisa, THF member
We’re for teachers – that’s our promise. To find out more about what we can do for you, head to teachershealth.com.au/promise
Eligibility criteria and conditions apply. Teachers Federation Health Ltd ABN 86 097 030 414 trading as Teachers Health. A Registered Private Health Insurer. THF-SSTUWA-04/20
Transition to Retirement Specialists
Financial solutions and advice to help you transition
TTR and Tax benefits will continue into 2020 & beyond! Please see tipsfs.com.au
Are You Retiring or Reducing Hours in 2020? What you will need to consider … • • • •
Can I afford to drop a day? How much will be enough to retire on? How can I maximize my income & reduce tax? When is it best to pay off my mortgage?
