Get ready to go in 2021

By Natalie Blewitt Growth Team coordinator

A union is built on its members. The strength, wisdom and unity of members determine the union’s directions and action.

The SSTUWA is the only organisation recognised to represent the industrial and professional interests of all educators in WA public schools and TAFEs. With members’ participation, the union negotiates your salaries, entitlements and conditions and is a strong voice in the workplace and the community. Membership with the SSTUWA is certainly an investment in your career and there are a range of ways that we have our members covered.

Whether you need to ask a question or seek advice from our Member Assist Team, need one-to-one support from a case manager, or assistance from our legal advocates, members know they are supported and protected when they need us the most.

But to ensure you are adequately covered and to stay connected with us, now is the perfect time to update your details. Many of our members change schools, move to a new house, adjust their work fraction, take leave, or even retire at the commencement of a new school year. Take a moment to check your details via the SSTUWA app or log onto the website – sstuwa.org.au – and look for the “update my details” tab. By updating your details, we can ensure that we continue to have you covered. Make sure your voice is heard by getting organised. At the start of each year, union members at your worksite should meet to organise your branch of the SSTUWA. All the necessary materials have been posted to your workplace union rep. Where there is no rep, the materials have been sent to the campus. If you haven’t received your copy, not to worry, you can access all the necessary information and paperwork online at sstuwa.org.au/GO21 It is recommended that completed branch paperwork be returned by Friday 5 March. Members from all sectors are also invited to nominate to join an SSTUWA committee. There are nine committees in total so why not get involved and have your say. You can do so via the GO21 webpage listed above. Nominations close on Thursday 25 February. Don’t forget, members also have access to a range of discounted products and services. There really is something for everyone so check out our list on page 30 of this Western Teacher, online at sstuwa.org.au/benefits or via the app. This year make sure you are keeping up to date with the latest information. There will be a lot happening so if you are not receiving our eNews, please let us know. Connect with us on social media via Facebook or Instagram so you don’t miss a thing. Make the most of your membership and get involved during 2021. We’d love to hear from you.

Getting Organised 2021

Authorised by Mary Franklyn, General Secretary, The State School Teachers’ Union of W.A. (Inc.) January 2021. A support package for Electing union reps and OSH reps Establishing branches Joining union committees Nominating State Council delegatesPlease retain this document. It contains important information relating to: establishing branches, nominations for branch positions, nominations for State Council, occupational safety and health and other significant union information.

Getting Organised January 2021 1