Media Release - ALP's Proposal to Recognise Highly Accomplished Teachers Is A Good Start

27 October 2006, 4:06pm

'The ALP's statement Recognising and Rewarding Quality Teaching in Public Schools released today gives the IEU an important starting point in our discussion with the Shadow Minister about this key education policy issue,' said Lynne Rolley, IEU Federal Secretary

"While the statement's focus is public schools, the principles underpinning the proposal are very significant. It commits a Federal Labor government to full cooperation with the states and territories. It commits to consultation with relevant stakeholders. It is based on existing and agreed structures such as the MCEETYA standards framework. And it commits to increased Commonwealth funding.

"These are important elements of a renewed federal education policy which must support teachers in their work and lift the status of the profession. It stands in stark contrast to the bullying approach of the Federal Minister, who consults with no one and who uses federal government funding as a stick to get its own way, said Ms Rolley.

"The IEU has long supported the recognition of accomplished teachers in schools. This requires the development of an integrated career structure for teachers that is reflective of the work currently underway in Australia around accomplished teacher standards, including the work of teacher registration authorities and subject associations, she said.

"Such a career structure requires a substantial commitment of resources by employers and governments. An integrated career structure should take into account the many phases in a teacher's career including early career, experienced, highly accomplished and leadership.

The IEU believes that the union's policy is significantly in accord with the principles evident in the ALPs paper. We look forward to having discussions with the Shadow Minister in relation to the implications of the ALP's paper for teachers in the non government sector." said Ms Rolley.

Contact details

Lynne Rolley
Federal Secretary
Ph: 0419 57 1227
Fax: 03 9254 1830
ieu@ieu.org.au