The AEU Information Unit provides members with advice on questions of pay, leave and general working conditions.
The Information Unit is staffed:
Monday: 8.15am - 5pm Tuesday to Friday: 10.30am - 5pm
For advice and assistance please phone 8172 6300 or email info@aeusa.asn.au
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AEU SA has done its best to ensure that all information provided was accurate at the time of printing.
Australian Education Union (SA Branch) acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants of the nation and the traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work.
Kaurna Country, 163 Greenhill Road, Parkside SA 5063
FEDERAL CONFERENCE DELEGATES
Nominations for 2024-2025 South Australia Federal Conference Delegates closed 21 August 2023. The following candidates were elected unopposed:
+ Matthew Cherry + Ann Clarke
+ Matthew Key
REMINDER
+ Kendall Proud + Graham Wood + Angela Dean (TAFE)
Changing workplaces in 2024? Contact our membership team to let us know!
membership@aeusa.asn.au | 08 8172 6300
SUMMER HOLIDAYS CHRISTMAS CLOSURE
AEU Greenhill Road office, Information Unit, Membership services, and all other operations will be closed from 12.30pm on 22 December 2023 to 9.00am on 8 January 2024
Editor: Seren Bell | Design: Rachael Harfouch
Printer: Lane Print | PrintPost approved: PP 100000753
Print: ISSN 1440-2971 | Digital: ISSN 2207-9092
AEU SA Journal is free to AEU members Non-members subscription rate: $33 per annum
Following extensive member consultation last year, and the firstever academic research into SA teaching conditions, we embarked on negotiations for an enterprise agreement to address the excessive workloads you experience in schools and preschools every day. In response to an offensive first offer, negotiations were supported by thousands of members on the steps of Parliament House delivering a strong message to the Government – sharpen up! Congratulations to members around South Australia who stood shoulder to shoulder last month. Our work is not yet done.
The sense of betrayal and anger was palpable. Eighteen months earlier the Government directed educators back to preschools and schools in an unvaccinated COVID environment. Educators adapted, as we do, to face-to-face and online learning environments, while the Government struggled to care about our health and safety. It took the threat of industrial action then, to bring the Government to the table and commit to safe working conditions.
Contrary to social media commentary that ‘striking achieves nothing’, in two years we have had many instances where intractable positions held by Government have capitulated to member demands because we dare to struggle, dare to win, and withdraw our labour.
We will gain similar concessions to address your workloads through enterprise bargaining. The truth is that our commitment to the students we teach continues to override the increasing need to balance work, families, and our wellbeing. Simply put, an employer that denies this personal time is not really about work-life balance, but exploitation.
While our profession continues to paper over the cracks of an underfunded public education system, we will never see a true shift in this detrimental paradigm. Governments don’t need to address the funding shortfalls because that’s what our profession is doing gratis.
Our Focus on Teaching and Learning has challenged the employer and I dare suggest this approach becomes entrenched in the way we operate. If the Government believes something is important, then it should be properly resourced. No longer should they rely on your goodwill for implementation. If something new is to be introduced then we should ask, “what goes?”
Members across South Australia are beginning to understand that collectively, you hold more power than imagined. You have a right to negotiate working conditions. Through our organised and collective response members have been, and always will be, successful when pushing back against the unreasonable demands of the employer.
This will be my last Journal as President. It has been an honour to be the public voice for AEU members. While the last six months have been tumultuous professionally and personally, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to improving your working conditions and pursuing a better deal for public education. Thank you for your support of our union and me. Thanks also to staff at the AEU who do an incredible job supporting and communicating with our members. In particular, I’d like to thank my assistant, Jacki Douglas, who has managed my working days with care and diligence. At the time of writing, I have no idea what 2024 will bring for me. However, I am certain that my commitment to public education will continue.
Always in solidarity.
ANDREW GOHL, BRANCH PRESIDENT, AEU SATHANK YOU ANDREW
Andrew Gohl finishes his term as President in December 2023. We thank Andrew for passionately leading our union for the past two years, and wish him all the best in the future.
"While our profession continues to paper over the cracks of an underfunded public education system, we will never see a true shift in this detrimental paradigm."All images by photographer Ben Searcy. AEU SA Enterprise Bargaining rally, Friday 1 September 2023, Parliament House steps.
On Friday 1 September, over 5,000 teachers, leaders and support staff rallied Parliament House to demand a better deal for public education. In regional towns, hundreds more held local rallies and events. It was an incredible showing of strength and solidarity as members came together from around South Australia to send Peter Malinauskas a message.
It has been said many times, but union power doesn’t come from a strongly worded letter or a campaign t-shirt. It comes from our collective strength and the withdrawal of labour. That said, industrial action is not something we take lightly. But after eight months of negotiations, the Government’s offer failed to practically address any of the challenges you face in our schools and preschools. It was insulting, and the subsequent ballot for industrial action returned one of the highest Yes votes in our union’s history, demonstrating the strength of your commitment to a better, fairer public education system.
I had the privilege of standing on the Parliament House steps as a sea of black swelled in from all directions. Your creativity was showcased by placards calling on the Premier to sharpen his pencil and deliver an acceptable offer. The passion was palpable, and as John Farnham’s You’re the Voice roared through the speakers, North Terrace erupted. It was the defining moment of a campaign which has united our profession in determination for better – not only for our working conditions, but for the students we teach.
Our success is testament to months of grassroots efforts, engaging and organising members in schools and preschools. You have worked hard to put pressure on the State Government through forums, roundtables, emails, and site-based actions, like our Focus on Teaching and Learning. Together we have recruited almost 1,000 new AEU members and demonstrated the true power of unity in shaping public and political conversation. Backed by academic research and driven by your experiences, I am confident this campaign will secure real improvements to your working conditions.
The adage ‘united we stand, divided we fall’ rings true, particularly at this stage of the bargaining process. The collectivism we displayed on the Parliament House steps last month must continue to drive negotiations and our campaign. Our individual hopes must culminate in what can be achieved together. The AEU is committed to ensuring
each of you, in every classification, finish up with a tangible improvement to your daily work. Whether it’s greater professional judgement, workload relief, more time to plan and prepare, or improved job security, they represent some of the most significant industrial improvements this decade.
This term will be a crunch point for our campaign as we enter the final stages of negotiations and hope to reach agreement soon. In the meantime, continue to be inspired by our collective strength and determination, and let's keep fighting for the public education system we all deserve.
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A big thank you to all AEU representatives in our schools and preschools.
What a year! The work you do is critical to building the strength of our union. As we approach the end of the year, it’s time to start thinking about the leadership of your sub-branch or preschool member group for 2024.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
+ Your sub-branch AGM must be held prior to 18 February 2024 in order to appoint your local union leadership. Many hold this in week zero, but you’ll know what’s best for your site
+ You can reach out to the AEU Information Unit for advice and support surrounding elections
+ Elected representation will have access to support including training, events and networking
+ Once you’ve completed your AEU elections, please pass the results onto the AEU membership team, membership@aeusa.asn.au
Hear from passionate Sub-Branch Secretaries on the importance of being an AEU Representative and why you should step up in 2024.
Like so many, I put my hand up to be Sub-Branch Secretary because I felt there was a need at my site for strong union voice. The position was vacant, there was an issue at hand, and I thought ten months would be all I would offer.
It hasn’t always been easy. Education work is demanding, and we are often so snowed under from day one, that we don’t ever learn or understand the conditions under which we are employed. Supporting members to take action in their own interests, adhering to agreed policies and processes, and following them, has given the AEU at my site a consistency of approach and positive reputation that is noteworthy.
Building something doesn’t need ten years, give it a go…
ANDREW JOLLY SUB-BRANCH SECRETARY BIRDWOOD HIGH SCHOOLI became a Sub-Branch Secretary for the first time in 2020, and in the years since have taken the role at multiple sites. It is a steep learning curve, but a great way to ensure members in sites are aware and engaged in union business and can have their voices heard.
The role is a privilege which requires good relationships and trust amongst members in your site. Lots of members need support over time, for big and little things, and this provides an opportunity to upskill in the policies and procedures that affect educators every day.
I have really enjoyed working with AEU Organisers and have valued their advice and support in managing issues from COVID management to enterprise bargaining, and everything in between.
The role of Sub-Branch Secretary is a great starting point in your union activism.
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If you would like to advertise in an upcoming edition of the Journal, email Journal@aeusa.asn.au for details and rates (where applicable).
SUBMIT A PIECE:
Do you have a story to share? Send us an email: Journal@aeusa.asn.au
+ Articles: maximum 400 words
+ Letters to the editor: maximum 200 words.
All submissions should be signed with name, membership status, and role description. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, please indicate this in your submission.
Editorial policy: Not all articles submitted will be published. Articles, letters to the editor, and advertising do not necessarily represent the views of the AEU. Submissions may be edited for publication.
EDITORIAL DEADLINES:
AEU SA Journal Deadlines 2024
+ Term 1: 8 December 2023
+ Term 2: 15 March 2024
CHANTELLE LUCAS SUB-BRANCH SECRETARY KEITH AREA SCHOOL+ Term 3: 7 June 2024
+ Term 4: 30 August 2024
Ten years later, I have appreciated the opportunity to make a difference at my site, to support AEU members and collectively achieve union goals.
I would encourage any union member to get involved at the sub-branch level.
+ There are lots of ways to help shape your union
+ Nominate for Branch Council or a committee in 2024
+ Have your say on the future of public education
Term four is a period of reflection and planning. A time to look back on the year’s challenges and achievements, celebrate victories, and plan for the adventures of the new year.
This term, I encourage you to also consider offering your expertise to the AEU by joining Branch Council or one of our committees. If you’re passionate about improving public education and want to have an impact on the work of the AEU, these opportunities should be part of your plan for the coming year.
Branch Council is the peak governing body of the AEU. Our delegates meet one Saturday per term to determine our policy and direction. Through robust debate and discussion, our delegates identify and address the issues affecting educators across the state.
The work of delegates has included guiding our enterprise bargaining, identifying specific needs for members on the APY Lands, forming committees on core issues, and directing the focus of our union's work.
Committees are the lifeblood of the AEU. If you have a passion or interest that you would like to represent, we probably have a committee devoted to it! Each committee is supported by either the President, Vice Presidents, or Branch Secretary and is made up of committed members from around
SA. Committees directly inform the work of Principal Officers and often have a chance to meet with the Department and Government.
Through our committees, members have worked directly with AEU leadership and the Department, including the Chief Executive, to meet and discuss solutions to the issues facing educators. For example, the IESP Roundtable and Country Education Roundtable were developed by the Special Education Consultative Committee and Country Conditions Standing Committee respectively. Members of the Neurodivergent Reference Group have met with the Assistant Minister for Autism to advocate for colleagues to provide for a more inclusive work environment.
Education is challenging but rewarding work. The AEU is here to work with you to advocate for your work, your students, and the community. So, as you start thinking about what next year will bring, consider nominating to become a Branch Council delegate or joining one of our committees to ensure your voice is heard.
MATTHEW CHERRY, BRANCH SECRETARY, AEU SA
By the end of this year, most schools will have transitioned to a centrally managed waste service by lead contractor Cleanaway. The transition process begins with a site assessment before equipment is delivered or repurposed and rollout commences. The catalyst for the shift is the Department’s commitment to South Australia’s Waste Strategy 2020-2025 initiative and the promotion of a circular economy.
Department targets by 2025:
+ Divert 90% of waste away from landfill
+ Reduce waste generation per capita by 5% compared to the 2020 baseline
+ Reduce food waste by 50%
Once the rollout is complete, you’ll have access to accurate data on waste volumes at your school for each of your waste streams.
The potential sustainability education and cross-curriculum learning opportunities are exciting and provide a chance for students to connect learning with real-world, measurable applications. Centrally managing waste, together with educating children about waste and sustainability, will play a big role in achieving these goals.
AEU members are reporting issues associated with this new initiative, including the removal of classroom and office bins, students needing to leave class to dispose of rubbish, and teachers being expected to empty rubbish bins daily. With teachers already at breaking point, they should not also be expected to empty their own rubbish bins each day.
+ Most schools have transitioned to a centrally managed waste service
+ This presents great opportunities for teaching about sustainability
+ The additional work of emptying bins should not fall to busy educators
+ Call a sub-branch meeting to discuss the issue. Ensure your PAC representatives are fully informed of the workload implications for teachers and support staff
+ Pass a motion.
“The (name) sub-branch opposes teachers being responsible for emptying bins in classrooms and office spaces”
+ Raise the issue at PAC. As the human resource management group within sites, the PAC can find alternative approaches to lessen the expectations of a teacher's overall workload.
By working collectively, our schools can engage in sustainable practices that help create a bright future for our students and teacher workload can be effectively managed.
If sustainability is your passion, please join us on the AEU Environmental Sustainability Consultative Committee. Contact me for details on how to nominate, kendall.proud@aeusa.asn.au
The Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care report recommends rolling out three-yearold preschool from 2026 with full implementation by 2032. While we support many of the Commissioner’s recommendations, it is extremely disappointing that our views expressed in both the AEU’s original submission and our response to the interim report have been largely ignored.
Of greatest concern are those recommendations that would see a diminishing of qualification requirements in early childhood education, prioritising facilities funding to preschools achieving the highest ratings and those with evidence of high staff retention. This goes against the AEU and public education ethos of equity for preschools in remote and hard-to-staff areas and those with imperfect facilities.
Another significant concern is the State Government not offering places for three-year-old children in a government preschool if that child is already attending a non-government setting at age three. This again undermines equity and public education provision.
We will continue to pursue these and other recommendations of concern with the Premier and Education Minister as they make decisions regarding their implementation.
+ We’re representing our thousands of SSO and Early Childhood members in enterprise bargaining
+ The Royal Commission into Early Childhood and Care includes some concerning recommendations
+ We will continue to pursue equity in education for all children
Your AEU negotiating team continues to represent SSOs and preschool members at the bargaining table. With the majority of SSOs not being paid for public holidays, this has always been a significant issue for our thousands of SSO members. We have been acting on your advice, as determined by our SSO member survey, to only pursue public holiday pay if there’s no reduction or removal of the loading. Things are looking promising, so watch this space!
Excessive workload for all members remains a key matter in bargaining. The AEU’s claim for resourcing to enable full-time educational leadership for all principals and preschool directors, which means no teaching load unless you choose otherwise, continues to be denied by the Government. Preschool teachers are currently in consideration for any rollout of additional NIT, but our proposal for additional ECW hours to undertake admin tasks has also been refused.
We continue to negotiate on these and many other important issues, as we work towards a fairer outcome for all members. Your commitment to Focus on Teaching and Learning and strike action have made a huge difference. This term, we may need more action to fix the shortage crisis that’s impacting public education.
The Commissioner’s final report was handed down on Sunday 27 August and can be accessed here » THANK YOU
JAN MURPHY VICE PRESIDENT, AEU SAJan Murphy finishes her second term as VicePresident in December. We thank Jan for years of commitment and service to our union, and wish her all the best in the future.
21 & Done continues to highlight excessive workloads and the broken ‘new system for enrolments’ is negatively impacting our TAFE members across the state. I’m proud to say that our campaign has already caught the attention of TAFE SA, who responded quickly, by asking us to stop the campaign!
We have since reminded the employer of the numerous workload grievances logged and their lack of resolution as examples of the ongoing issues we are trying to address collectively. We have let them know that we will only cease the campaign when members’ workloads are restored to a reasonable level, compliant with the EA. As we near our next enterprise bargaining period, it’s more important than ever for every TAFE SA member to sign our 21 & Done pledge. Until we stand up for our rights at work, TAFE SA will continue to bank on our hours of unpaid work in their business plans.
While we have had some initial meetings with the employer to resolve the 21 & Done workload dispute, there has been no clear resolution to date. Continuing to pursue this dispute is integral to ensuring the current EA is adhered to before bargaining can commence in 2024.
+ Our 21 & Done campaign has caught the attention of the employer
+ It’s essential we address workload before a new period of bargaining
+ The Education Minister has signalled a shift away from the for-profit model of TAFE SA
In August, the Roadmap for the Future of TAFE SA was released. It outlines six goals and 96 recommendations to help restore TAFE SA as a leading vocational education and training provider in the next 10 years.
Upon its release, the Education Minister acknowledged that the corporatisation of TAFE SA was a mistake, and has signalled a shift that will return TAFE SA to its role as a key public education institution, rather than a forprofit business.
The Roadmap will see a new legislative and strategic direction for TAFE in SA, and members hope that these changes will focus on providing quality vocational education and training across Australia.
STAND AGAINST EXCESSIVE WORKLOADS BY PLEDGING TO 21 & DONE.
Sign the pledge at: www.aeusa.asn.au/21done
I attended the NSW Teachers Federation Diversity in Education Conference earlier this year and met many lesbian, gay, trans, and non-binary educators.
I was pleasantly surprised to be surrounded by educators who are comfortable talking about their gender and sexual identities in the workplace.
At the conference, I also met lecturers from TAFE NSW and learned they have a Pride Network that connects LGBTQIA+ staff and fosters discussion about issues in their
+ LGBTQIA+ TAFE Educators are building networks around Australia
+ The networks foster conversation, support, and change
workplace. Their People and Culture team shared how the network started and the ways in which they advocate for issues affecting staff and the students. These conversations have motivated me to create a Pride Network at TAFE SA. It’s my hope that our network will welcome gender and sexually diverse TAFE SA staff and promote more open conversation about making our workplace safe for LGBTQIA+ people and the ways our employer can better celebrate our diverse identities.
While I’m based in Adelaide, I recognise a network like this is also vital at our regional campuses, where support may be more difficult to find and LGBTQIA+ communities are smaller.
DEXTER MEJIA
TAFE SA MEMBER, AEU SA LGBTI CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER
If you are interested in helping me build a Pride Network for TAFE SA, please email dexter.mejia@gmail.com
I am an Aboriginal Community Education Officer (ACEO) at Augusta Park Primary School, working with a great team. I have been teaching Adnyamathanha language for seven years, alongside my cousin Kahran McKenzie who is classified at SSO1. We prepare, plan, grade and deliver specialist lessons alongside the teacher, ensuring our work aligns with the Australian Curriculum. We create our own language resources to capture and engage students in ways which suit their learning needs. This is work that very few others can do.
Over the years I have witnessed many other support staff working outside of their job roles. They are first to put their hand up if anything needs to be done, putting student needs first and providing incredible support to classroom teachers.
My colleagues and I support leadership to deal with complex student behavior on a weekly basis. This is not part of our position, but we do it to support our school, students and their families. If I am able to help a child get back on track with their learning, it benefits the students, teacher, and our leadership team. It makes me happy to see that difference.
When dealing with complex behavior you often play multiple roles. You can be a detective solving a problem, a trusted counsellor, and a carer when they are upset or just need guidance. Many people don't understand that the role doesn’t end when the bell rings. We are available to families and the wider community who approach us at the shopping centre, sporting events, and on social media. At times, it can be difficult to say no. I will always listen to their concerns and questions they have.
During the pandemic, orders under the Biosecurity Act were placed on Davenport Community. No one was allowed to enter or leave. My colleague and I supported three schools and one preschool by checking on student wellbeing, providing them with laptops, and reporting information back to each of the sites. This disruption was a setback to the students’ education, and we stepped up for each child in the Davenport Community.
ACEOs and SSOs go above and beyond every single day to support our students, families, and the other staff at our school. We are committed and work incredibly hard, and without us, schools would not function.
MAORIELLA STUART ACEO AUGUSTA PARK, PRIMARY SCHOOLThe AEU is committed to increasing the wages of our lowest paid support staff. If your work exceeds the criteria of your current position, get in touch to discuss reclassification: www.aeusa.asn.au/info
The Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) has a simple legal test for what might constitute sexual harassment: unwelcome behaviour (as felt by the recipient – not based on the intention of the perpetrator), that is of a sexual nature, and which causes reasonable offence, humiliation and/or intimidation.
The Federal Government's new Positive Duty laws around sexual harassment place the onus on the employer, in our case the Department, to actively prevent sexual harassment within our workplaces. This means that it is no longer the responsibility of the employee to deal with sexual harassment as it arises but to have systems and processes in place to ensure it is prevented as far as reasonably practicable. That includes sexual harassment perpetrated by anyone you encounter as part of your work, not just your colleagues.
We want to hear your thoughts on how to eliminate sexual harassment in our schools and preschools
womensofficer@aeusa.asn.au
I’m keen to hear your thoughts on sexual harassment in our sites, what kind of training is available to you, what’s being done to prevent sexual harassment on site, and what you think is needed to ensure effective positive duty is enforced to keep our sites safe from sexual harassment.
JAKI HEIM WOMEN’S OFFICER, AEU SAMy name is Maoriella Stuart. I am Luritja, Adnyamathanha, Kuyani, Dieri and Arabana woman.
It seems like only yesterday when I walked nervously into Port Augusta High School, now Port Augusta Secondary School, as a graduate teacher.
At just 24, I was a seasoned member of the Workers Industrial Union of Australia (WIUA), having already worked nine summers at the South Mine in my hometown of Broken Hill. The experience of solidarity and protection that my WIUA membership afforded me meant that I knew joining the AEU was essential when I began my teaching career. It’s in my blood!
I've been an educator in Port Augusta ever since and the AEU has been by my side, ensuring I feel part of a community that knows strength in numbers is something to be cherished.
Throughout my career and now as principal at Port Augusta Secondary School, I’ve advocated for strength working hand-in-hand with common sense and respect. While our union supports us to do great work as educators, we must find realistic and useful ways to support the future of public education.
As a principal, I sometimes face challenges when juggling the needs of students, staff, and parents alongside Department policies and procedures. I also take seriously the daily pressures my staff experience and keep these in mind when I’m making complex decisions, always trying to ensure both educators and students have the support they need. Leaders can’t keep everyone happy all the time, but as a union member, I think it’s important and respectful to share the ‘why’ of my decisions with staff. Those who know me might describe me as someone who sometimes over-justifies my actions, but I think too much information beats not enough!
Regardless of your beliefs or membership status, great leaders must have an open and trusting relationship with their school Sub-Branch Secretary and Organiser – which I’m proud to say is the case with us at Port Augusta Secondary School. The confidence and freedom to agree, disagree, and find solutions, is essential. I’m proud to say that a culture of openness and trust makes Port Augusta Secondary School a happier place to work for everyone, including me.
Finally, g’day to the many ex-Port Augustrians that are in pretty much every site in SA. Let’s have a reunion soon. Keep up the good work, AEU!
Key points
+ Simon Owens is the principal and a long-term educator at Port Augusta Secondary School
+ He’s a proud, life-long union member
+ Fostering open communications is part of union membership and helps to develop a happier school culture
A PROUD HISTORY. A STRONG FUTURE. JOIN TODAY.
We are bringing to the table a practical and ambitious vision for a bright future in public education. No matter where your public education career in South Australia takes you, the AEU is here to support you, protect you and advocate for your interests.
www.aeusa.asn.au/join
"...the AEU has been by my side, ensuring I feel part of a community that knows strength in numbers is something to be cherished."
The Australian Electoral Commission is conducting ballots for the following:
+ Branch President (1)
+ Branch Vice-President (2) (shall include at least one female)
+ Branch Executive Officers (General Division, other than Children's Services and School Services SubDivisions) (12) (shall include at least six females)
Please call the AEU office if you do not receive your ballot paper to confirm that you are on the electoral roll, and your home address is correct.
Postal ballots close at 10:00am (AEDT) on 1 November 2023.
+ These statements are as supplied by the candidates and publication on AEU platforms does not indicate the Union's endorsement
+ Only financial members as at close of rolls on 10 August 2023 will be eligible to vote for President and Vice President positions. All financial members excluding TAFE, Children's Services and SSO members, as at close of rolls on 10 August 2023, will be eligible to vote for the 12 Branch Executive Officer positions representing General Division.
Nominations for Branch Executive 2024 – 2025 closed on 1 September 2023. The following candidates were elected unopposed:
Branch Executive Officers:
+ ATSI Representative: Danny Ellis
+ SSO Representative: Deborah Shields
+ TAFE Representative: Susan Garwood
+ Children’s Services Representative: Unfilled
DANNY ASHCROFT AEU VICE PRESIDENT | AEU EXECUTIVE
I am asking for you to support me to amplify your voice and drive our Union towards a future that prioritises the needs of its members, our students and our communities.
As a teacher of 16 years, I have worked in a diverse range of sites, including country and Category 1 schools giving me a deeper understanding of the complexities and issues that all educators face.
As the Health and Safety Representative at my site, I have experience of the impact that changes to our work has had and will make sure that educators mental health and wellbeing is at the forefront of any discussions with the DfE.
As a long time member of the AEU I have been actively involved in supporting various AEU directions in regards to country conditions and was instrumental in forming the Complex Schools ad-hoc committee as well as the Environmental Sustainability committee.
Vote for me and I will be a proactive Vice-President who will listen, act and collaborate with members and will make sure your voices are heard.
I am honoured to stand again as a candidate for Branch Executive. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving this union and its members, and I am committed to continuing this journey, advocating for our shared values and interests.
Throughout my time as an active union member, I have been dedicated to our union's values, including unity, fairness, and the collective well-being of our members. I have actively worked to promote solidarity among our diverse membership, fostering an environment where every member's voice is heard and valued.
I am deeply committed to transparency, accountability, and open communication within our union. I believe in fostering an environment where members are informed, engaged, and actively participate in shaping our union's future.
In this upcoming election, I ask for your support to continue serving as your representative on Branch Executive. Together, we can uphold our union's values and continue to work towards a better, more equitable future for all members.
AEU
Vote 1 Tom Ellis for Vice President.
The AEU in 2023 is like your good mate that you don’t see much of.
The mate that’s there for you in tough times, but you don’t see them around as much as you’d like.
After 10 years of active union membership, including as Sub Branch Secretary and recently an Executive member, I know that our mate, the AEU needs to be much more present and relevant.
The AEU needs to be about, bringing people together to first build a strong community at sites, to be visible, to be relevant and then to win.
If elected as Vice President, then together with you, our union will:
+ Listen to the needs of members at local level.
+ Increase training and support for reps so they don’t feel isolated.
+ Direct resources back to Sub Branches for building their community.
+ Bring fun back to being a union member.
+ Use collective strength of community built over years, to win for members at sites and at the bargaining table.
AEU
With a steadfast commitment to the principles of democratic governance and financial transparency, I firmly believe in the essence of unions as memberdriven entities. My unwavering dedication to this belief is exemplified through my 30 years in the field of education. This extensive experience has granted me an intricate understanding of the landscape within which educators operate.
I am resolute in my belief that quality education is a fundamental right accessible to all, and my extensive journey of advocacy and leadership within the AEU substantiates my dedication to this cause.
As an active AEU member since the early 1990s, I've championed the interests of fellow members. As a liaison between union leadership and members, I've effectively conveyed concerns and ideas. My involvement in AEU Executive, and committees, demonstrates my proactive engagement. My collaborative work on the Administration Review Committee alongside Lara Golding underscores my capacity to drive change within the union. I've fortified my skills in grievance handling, mediation, advocacy, submission writing, sustainability and project management. Experience as a WHS site officer supplement my education-focused prowess.
AEU VICE PRESIDENT | AEU EXECUTIVE
I’m excited by the opportunity to represent you and our fellow educators as Vice President of our union.
Building a community worth being a part of
I’ve been an active union member since the beginning of my career, and in this time my role as a teacher and leader has changed significantly, but the way the AEU has worked with me hasn’t changed.
My experience at AEU events like Council, Executive, Area Meetings and Conferences have shown me that the AEU is not hearing from a broad range of members regularly and this is something I aspire to change, I want to hear your voice.
With your support my goals for Vice President are to:
+ Foster and build a strong sense of community.
+ Empower sub-branches.
+ Actively listen and advocate for the best interest of members.
sadiegent@icloud.com
I’m a North East Urban Branch Council delegate, PAC rep, WOC member, OAC Staff Wellbeing and WHS committee member. I embrace the values of passion, forward-thinking, and collaboration required to address the issues undermining our wellbeing, agency and respect.
Passion: I support the work of educators in schools and the standing of our profession in the community by engaging in union processes and leading SA Philosophy in Education as Vice President.
Forward-thinking: With a desire to make our AEU more adaptable, valuable, and responsive to members, I initiated plans through Branch Council to develop a webinar on how to effectively use AI to reduce our excessive workloads.
Collaboration: As a Branch Council delegate, I work collaboratively to improve communication between my sub branch, area and AEU leadership.
I'm committed to collaborating with critical, creative and caring thinkers to build a more optimistic future for our union and our profession.
Visit liamgoodfellow.com
Vote Goodfellow for Vice President.
AEU PRESIDENT
+ Strong activist for public education and unionism
+ 22 years education and union experience: teacher, principal, AEU Branch Executive, Branch Council, Federal Conference delegate and Chair of the AEU National Principal Committee
+ Current AEU Federal Field Coordinator of the "For Every Child" campaign
As AEU President, I will
+ actively lead our union collaboratively and respectfully
+ build a powerful AEU voice together with the leadership team
+ empower, organise and support all staff in schools, preschools and TAFE
+ Respect and value the diversity and cultural backgrounds of all AEU members
+ strategically campaign for full funding, Enterprise Bargaining and better workforce pay and conditions
+ proactively ensure that unionism is more relevant than ever before
+ Organise and grow the recruitment and retention of union membership.
+ Build necessary relationships with employers and government that will benefit union members.
My commitment to you is that I will listen to and speak up for members about real issues. Together we are stronger and together we win!
INTEGRITY, PASSION, COMMITMENT, UNION jgormanforpresident@gmail.com
P: 0434 117 959 | FB: jgormanforpresident
AEU EXECUTIVE
I bring a fresh, strong voice as well as current issues straight from the front line. I passionately stand up for members and I know the value of action to drive engagement and membership.
I will work towards making our union stronger through increasing membership and encouraging active participation from members. I believe that the best way for us to be heard is with numbers and bold action.
I advocate for reasonable workloads, proper recognition of the work that goes into teaching in low SES schools and adequate funding for public education - because our kids deserve it, and so do we.
I know what members want and I know how to act on issues, I’ll fight the little fights that lead to the big wins.
AEU EXECUTIVE
AEU EXECUTIVE
Vote for me as a Branch Executive member and I will listen and respond to your issues and concerns.
I am a proud and active member of the AEU. I have acted as Sub-Branch Secretary, AEU PAC representative, and the Women’s Officer on multiple occasions over the last ten years and am a current member of the AEU Branch Executive.
I have constructively contributed to multiple AEU committees over the last five years: Environmental Sustainability, OHS&W and Country Conditions. I regularly attend local AEU Area meetings and contribute by submitting various motions to Branch Council.
I am seeking your support to ensure a strong voice can highlight the unique needs of regional areas. I have seen firsthand the complexities and impossible workload demands all educators are facing around the state. I am passionate about ensuring our entitlements and rights are both followed and protected. This will help to achieve better learning outcomes for students across the state and a greater work-life balance for all staff, both now and in the future.
Over the last eight years I have held the position of Sub Branch Secretary at a large Secondary School in the Southern Suburbs. I have been an AEU member since the beginning of my teaching career where I have also held several leadership positions. I value the strong and exceptional quality of public education. When I was appointed to the joint AEU/SACE Board Working Party this allowed me the opportunity to input into issues relating to SACE including subject renewal as well as moderation and marking processes.
In 2021, I was successfully appointed on the recommendation of the AEU to join the Teachers Registration Board, a position I am privileged to hold and value highly.
I have been a strong advocate for fairness, equitability, respect and always with a firm commitment to an understanding of cultural inclusivity.
Coming from a non-English speaking background, I have also been involved in a range of cultural activities within my Ukrainian Community.
I have stood by this personal ethos both within my service of over 25 years with the Education Department and within prior positions including both the welfare sector and the corporate world.
VOTE 1: Oksana Kaczmarsky
AEU PRESIDENT | AEU EXECUTIVE
I am seeking your support to lead a change in our union and to provide strong representation of our workforce.
As a teacher and school leader, I have the experience of working within, and leading schools through the pandemic, the socalled ‘Road to World-Class’ and have the direct experience of supporting education staff at Breaking Point. I have experienced the change in our profession, and understand the complexity of our work.
I am a collaborative leader committed to listening to and calling upon the expertise and unique perspectives of our members to drive our actions and direction.
I am passionate about bringing autonomy back into the profession for teachers, leaders and ancillary staff. We must also work alongside our TAFE members and hold the government accountable to the new roadmap.
We have a lot of work to do, and I am seeking your vote to ensure our union is member-focussed, transparent and relevant to public education in the 21st century.
Read more about my values and platform at keyteaching.net
AEU VICE PRESIDENT
VOTE 1 TIM LONGSTAFF for strength, unity, experience and real action.
My current roles include Sub-Branch Secretary, Area Rep, Branch Council Rep and Executive.
It’s time to unite members and with my 14 years' experience, in the country and metro at Cat 2 and 6 schools, I am the person to help do this. For the last 5 years as Sub-Branch Secretary I have been working with members to improve:
+ Workload
+ Class complexities
+ WHS around violent students, COVID and workplace injuries
+ Worksite bullying
+ SSO classification and roles
+ Performance Management
I’ve led responses, enacted support plans, helped members organise planned responses, been a support person and a voice to people who have felt unheard and unable to speak up.
Education is in a state that, if changes are not made, runs the risk of falling over. After 14 years it’s now time to stand up or shut up and a union voice should never be silenced. Our union needs to be united and for this we need experience, strength and real action.
VOTE 1 TIM LONGSTAFF
AEU EXECUTIVE
AEU Activism
I proudly joined the AEU when I began my teaching career to continue the fight for public education. I have served the AEU members as a Sub-Branch Secretary and PAC Representative, ensuring a strong and active membership and resolution of challenges.
I was elected to the AEU SA Branch Executive for 20212022, and am keen to continue the work of the committee of management in delivering outcomes for members.
I began my teaching career as a contract teacher at Grant High School in Mount Gambier. I spent three years in Whyalla as a permanent teacher at Stuart High School, and in leadership roles at Edward John Eyre High School and Whyalla Secondary College. I am currently in the Secondary Assistant Principal role at Keith Area School.
If re-elected I will continue to fight for:
Fair funding in public education to give South Australian students every opportunity to be successful at school and in their future pathways, and for reasonable workloads and conditions for school teachers and support staff.
AEU PRESIDENT |
AEU EXECUTIVE
Vote 1 Marika Marlow for President
As an independent, I pledge to work collaboratively with you to best represent our members with honesty and transparency. As a current practising educator and an active AEU member for over 40 years, (currently on Executive), I experience the complexities and demands placed upon us.
I see this as an opportunity to engage in real action to:
+ Build, strengthen and promote a strong consultative AEU community voice to create positive change.
+ reclaim respect for our professional voice, knowledge, and expertise.
+ be paid our worth, so all SA Educators are on nationally competitive salaries.
+ advocate to achieve fair and just outcomes for members and public education, inclusive of support for students with a disability, learning and/or behavioural issues.
+ work together to strengthen our efficacy on improving our working lives.
+ unite in action to achieve our democratically determined objectives.
UNITE, STRENGTHEN, ADVOCATE AND SUPPORT
Teaching Experience
+ 26 years, primary classroom teacher.
School Based AEU Activism
+ Sub Branch Secretary, Panel & PAC member
+ Branch Council Delegate
+ Union activist
During 10 years as your AEU Vice President
+ EB negotiating team
+ Areas of responsibility and committees include SSO, Early Childhood, Status of Women, TRT & Contract Teacher, LGBTI, Special Education, Curriculum and PD, Recruitment & Selection, TRB and Seconded Teachers.
+ National & State campaigns, policy review and development, and member development, consultation and support.
AEU Organiser
+ Organising through campaigning
+ Member recruitment, development and support
+ Early Childhood focus
As a member of your Executive I will continue to campaign and work collaboratively with the AEU team to achieve:
+ A positive profile for members in a high quality, well resourced, highly regarded public education system.
+ Improved workload protections and fair and equitable processes.
+ Empowering of members with the skills, knowledge and support to resolve workplace issues and ensure member entitlements are met.
+ Recruitment, retention and engagement of members in preschools, schools and TAFE.
+ Increased levels of permanency
AEU VICE PRESIDENT | AEU EXECUTIVE
Kendall Proud for Vice President
16 years experience working in early childhood and primary: country and metropolitan as a teacher and school leader.
Active union leader on AEU Branch Executive, Branch Council, Federal Conference, and as Current Acting Vice President.
As AEU Vice President I will lead by:
+ Collaborating with teachers, leaders, and support staff working in preschool, schools and TAFE.
+ Ensuring a strong early childhood and primary voice in AEU leadership.
+ Empowering member voice in democratic decision making.
+ Promoting integrity in the union by ensuring decisions are made in the interest of members.
+ Supporting members to be active in union structures.
+ Prioritising the development of future union activists and leaders.
+ Elevating the AEU as the voice of the profession.
Prioritise urgent member issues by negotiating with employers and governments:
+ Address the unreasonable and excessive workloads of members across all sectors.
+ Resource early intervention programs for students.
+ Provide safe working environments for all staff.
+ Reduce the administrative and data burden.
+ Implement the recommendations of the TAFE roadmap.
+ Ensure equity of outcomes for members working in regional, remote and rural settings.
AEU EXECUTIVE
Vote 1 Cassandra Neller for Executive
22 years teaching experience in country, metropolitan and APY lands.
Active sub-branch secretary, promoting the union, recruitment and supporting members.
On Executive I will campaign for:
+ A strong consultative voice within the AEU to bring about positive change.
+ realistic workloads and working conditions for all sectors across education.
+ Secure work for all staff.
+ Improved country conditions.
+ A recognition of with funding support for students with a disability, learning difficulties and/or behavioural issues.
+ Respect and competitive salaries for our profession.
AEU EXECUTIVE
I will listen and represent you.
Gaye Rose
For AEU Branch Executive
“I have a dream that one day we can all teach the subjects areas that we are trained in - to a realistic class size that has the necessary support for all students - along with a salary that reflects our workload”.
It’s time to bring new ideas from our members to the leadership of our Union.
With over 20 years’ experience in teaching/ leadership positions (country and metro), AEU PAC rep, Sub-Branch Secretary and Area Delegate I know I have the qualities and confidence to represent you as a member of Branch Executive. I have an awareness and understanding of the issues that are faced statewide.
Currently I am Sub-Branch secretary at Mitcham Girls High School. In this role I listen, advise, seek solutions and act as an advocate for our members.
I will be a strong and credible member of Executive and commit to working hard so that your views are represented and that our dreams of better conditions are realised.
Michael Stoetzer for Branch Executive
Teaching Experience
+ I have taught English and Humanities for 14 years.
+ I have worked at Port Augusta Secondary School for six years and currently I am at Reynella East College.
AEU activism
+ Since 2016, I have been the Sub-Branch Secretary at Reynella East College.
+ I have been an AEU PAC representative (2016) and have been actively involved in the WHS committees at both sites.
+ Currently, I am a member of Branch Executive and Aboriginal Education Consultative Committee (since 2019). I have been a member of Branch Council ( 2018-2019)
As a member of Branch Executive, I will continue to advocate for:
+ Improving working conditions for colleagues across the various sectors
+ Ensuring that our union reflects our profession
+ Increasing communication between sites and the Branch Executive.
“I highly recommend Liam Goodfellow for the position of Vice President I ve had the privilege of working closely with Liam on various union matters, and I can confidently say that his dedication passion and commitment to the betterment of education and the welfare of Union members is truly commendable His forward-thinking approach is refreshing, and it's evident that he’s always looking for innovative ways to address the challenges faced by educators and support staff
One of Liam’s standout qualities is his ability to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders within the Union He has consistently demonstrated a knack for bringing people together, facilitating open and constructive dialogue, and finding common ground to achieve positive outcomes
Liam’s vision for a more engaged and member-centered union aligns perfectly with the needs of our community I believe that with Liam’s leadership the Union will continue to evolve and become an even more effective advocate for educators and support staff across South Australia
I have full confidence that Liam will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Union members and the education sector His passion forward-thinking mindset, and collaborative spirit makes him the ideal candidate for this role ”
- Vesna Suvala, Teacher & Union Member
As a member of Branch Executive, I will work collaboratively with other members to deftly enact the decisions of the Branch Council, with deep respect of the diverse nature in which our members connect with their students, families and communities.
My last 12 years as a teacher has resulted in many opportunities to work with and learn from a range of colleagues who have shared their experiences across the state in a broad range of settings.
I am equally impassioned in supporting educators who are ‘doing it tough’, alongside those who have challenges at the other end of the spectrum. I will aim to ensure that they all are enabled to engage in a profession that garners utmost respect, with high morale, whilst encouraging the very best from South Australian students.
As a member of Branch Executive of the AEU, I will seek to uphold the integrity of this organisation, via its strong advocacy of education and educators, by offering my perspectives objectively and considerately on behalf of its members.
“Liam played a fundamental role in advocating for procedural change during a recent decision-making process that impacted the whole site He identified issues with the process, rallied support from members, and led the sub-branch through the internal dispute process ” “Liam is a passionate educator who lives his values of consultation, member support and creating a positive future for educators and students.”
I have worked with Liam in professional associations and committees where his commitment to creating change led by the voices of members always shone through His leadership was always focused on how he could help us members grow, flourish and connect to our purpose as educators I felt empowered by his approach because he took his responsibility of support seriously
In the midst of a difficult HR adjustment at our site, Liam’s approach as a PAC member and branch delegate was to always be consultative responsive and passionate about our future as educators
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Matt truly has wellbeing at the centr saw this enacted with students d staff, he always demonstrated care and integrity
Committed to consultation, Matt was keen to hear all views, supported collaboration and shared decision-making, and was always respectful
As our representative, we knew that Matt would speak up, ask questions and insist on the best for all educators with special care for those of us in remote contexts He has a keen intellect is confident and principled
He’ll make a wonderful AEUSA leader
Karen Corneliusan to work collaboratively to: improve educator autonomy ore support to our non-school based members he voices of members in our guiding document class sizes and streamline funding mechanisms ensure that AEU leaders have perspective about what is happening in sites
facebook.com/keyteaching
Quick breaks that help you refocus and return to work feeling centered.
Break out the hot hands
+ This is a good break when you sense a weariness in the air. One you can do by yourself or with students.
+ Rub your hands together vigorously until they warm up.
+ Close your eyes and place your hands over your eyes. Breathe deeply as you clear your mind and refocus.
Number Pyramid
Write a number in each block so that every block is equal to the sum of the two blocks immediately below it.
From 30 years ago, a cartoon for union publications from Bill Cook, artist and former Vice President.
I was honoured to join the remarkable group of AEU Women Educators who descended on Canberra in early September for the 2023 Federal Women's Conference.
This year, each state and territory's delegates came together to lobby for funding to meet the minimum Schooling Resourcing Standard (SRS), an essential step in building a bright future for public education nationally.
Currently, South Australian schools are only funded between 90% and 95% of the minimum SRS. This funding is shared between our State and Federal Governments and can be changed by our Federal politicians.
Our South Australian delegation met with two Senators and two House of Representatives MPs, as well as the Federal Education Minister, Jason Clare. Our delegates spoke with clarity and urgency about the impact a lack of funding has on working women.
From stories about how a lack of educators impacts family time, to the guilt associated with not being able to
In this article
+ Federal Women’s Conference saw women educators lobby in Canberra
+ Delegates met with policymakers to fight for 100% Schooling Resourcing Standard
+ If you’d like to be involved in empowering women in education, get in touch
help every student, our delegates made it clear to our nation's leaders that more funding is vital to help working women, other educators, and all students.
As well as lobbying, our delegates had the opportunity to network and learn from members and allies across the country who are also engaged in the fight for a stronger public education system.
This is how we build up generations of strong women; by gathering in women-centered places, learning from each other, and standing up, united, for what we believe in.
JAKI HEIM WOMEN'S OFFICER, AEU SAWANT TO BE INVOLVED?
If this is something that interests you, contact me to learn more about getting involved.
womensofficer@aeusa.asn.au
"...more funding is vital to help working women, other educators, and all students."↑ Members and delegates attended the 2023 AEU Women's Federal Conference.
Access a wide range of values-based professional learning to develop your practical skills and grow as an educator.
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES
SBS Huddle: Skils and Advice
+ Thur 19 Oct, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
+ Cost: Free for AEU members
+ For: Sub-Branch Secretaries, Workplace Representatives, and Workplace Organising Committee members
This huddle offers short, term-by-term coaching sessions for SBS and WOC members to ensure you fulfill your responsibilities to AEU colleagues at your site.
Differentiation for students with a learning disability
+ Thur 19 Oct, 1:30pm
+ Cost: $55 member discount fee
+ For: AEU members
In this program, one of Australia's leading teachers on working with students with learning disabilities will outline approaches to self-regulation and sensory processing, behavioural issues, and knowledge acquisition, experienced by those students with learning disability.
Leading data informed change in schools
+ Wed 01 Nov, 4:30pm
+ Cost: $55 member discount fee
+ For: AEU members
This leadership workshop will establish the importance of teams using data to analyse the impact of their work on student learning outcomes. Explore how to lead a team to identify helpful data and how that data can be used across a cohort of students whether that be an age group or a curriculum area. It is a course designed for leaders but will also benefit classroom teachers who are not yet in leadership roles.
AEU Merit Selection Retraining (school & preschool)
+ Wed 25 Oct, 4pm
+ Thur 9 Nov, 4pm
+ Tue 28 Nov, 4pm [TAFE]
+ Cost: Free for members
+ For: AEU members who wish to become an AEU Representative on panels
This is a two-hour retraining session for AEU members that last attended Merit Selection training in 2018. AEU SA Policy requires AEU members to complete Merit Selection Retraining every five years to be eligible to be an AEU Representative on Merit Selection Panels.
Tired
Andrew Gohl and Vice President Jan Murphy as they give members a behindthe-scenes look at enterprise bargaining, our strategy, and what's coming next.
THE LATEST EPISODES
EPISODE 8:
Jan and Andrew chat post-strike bargaining and the importance of resting in the holidays!
EPISODE 7
Andrew and AEU Education Director Sam talk about the insulting recent offer from the Government and taking industrial action.
EPISODE 6
Jan and Andrew provide a term three update. Hear about our Focus on Teaching and Learning and where we're at with enterprise bargaining.
Check out the AEU SA website regularly for more dates and courses at aeusa.asn.au/upcoming
