Motion of Solidarity with AEU ACT Industrial Action
The Executive of the Independent Education Union of Australia NSW/ACT Branch notes that members of the Australian Education Union have voted overwhelmingly, with more than 95 per cent support, to undertake protected industrial action in response to unsustainable workloads, staffing shortages, and ongoing failures by the ACT Government to adequately address concerns raised during bargaining. ACT public-school teachers and school assistants will undertake a two-hour strike on Friday, 22 May 2026, alongside additional campaign actions, with further escalation possible should negotiations fail to progress.
Branch Executive further notes that the issues raised by AEU members reflect broader concerns shared by education workers across all sectors, including members of the IEU NSW/ACT Branch, regarding workload, staff wellbeing, workforce sustainability, and the future of public education.
Accordingly, Branch Executive expresses its solidarity with members of the Australian Education Union undertaking industrial action, calls on the ACT Government and Education Directorate to return to meaningful negotiations and address the legitimate concerns of educators, and affirms the importance of union solidarity across the education sector in defending fair working conditions, professional respect, and quality education for all students.
Moved: David Caton – Vice President ACT
Seconded: Suzanne Penson – President
Carried unanimously 8 May 2026