Queensland teachers call 24-hour strike

Issue 

Queensland teachers call 24-hour strike

By Bill Mason

BRISBANE — Queensland teachers voted overwhelmingly in a series of statewide ballots to strike for 24 hours on March 25 over pay and conditions. The vote by 9000 Queensland Teachers Union members was 85% in favour of a strike.

The QTU has suggested that more strike action could follow as part of the union's campaign to force the Borbidge government to increase its pay offer.

Union president Ian Mackie said on March 17 that more teacher meetings would be held next term to decide on further action. "This could go on for some time", he said.

The union has put in a pay claim of 10% for 1997, while the government has offered a 4% annual increase for the two- or three-year life of a proposed enterprise agreement.

Mackie said the union would be happy to discuss any pay-rise offer between 4% and 10%. But the strike was "highly unlikely" to be called off.

Queensland teachers would be the "cellar dwellers of Australian schools", with the lowest pay among the country's teachers, if they accepted the state government's offer, he said.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.