The Australian Education Union (AEU) has endorsed a new in-principle agreement that aims to provide TAFE teachers with wage increases, a modern classification system, and more time for assessment and professional development.
Announced on Friday, February 7, the in-principle agreement between the AEU and Victorian TAFE Association aims to back the existing workforce and encourage a new generation of TAFE teachers by delivering an upfront pay rise and then additional 1.5 per cent increases every six months over the life of the agreement, along with changes to the classification structure.
It will also ensure the time allocated for teachers to do in-class assessments is counted towards teaching and increase the number of hours available for correction, assessment, preparation, planning, and engagement.
Finally, it includes Improved parental leave and cultural leave, and the introduction of grandparent leave and foster parent leave.
Skills and TAFE Minister Gayle Tierney said that Victoria’s TAFE teachers are “world-class” and they are “training our state’s future workforce to build the homes we need, support our clean energy transition, and provide care for those who need it.”
The deal is aimed at further encouraging those considering a career in TAFE teaching.
According to a state media release, four in five future jobs will come through Australia’s TAFE system, and in 2025 there are about 90,000 new students beginning TAFE training.
