The IEU stands with you from the very start of your career
Become part of a community of teachers and support staff fighting for fair pay and better conditions in non-government schools and services.
Student members are able to connect with the union as well as the wider non-government education sector. Joining the IEU means that as you prepare to start your career, you can access assistance and ask questions about your workplace rights.
We offer free membership for tertiary students, and discounted membership in your first year of teaching.
Finishing up study? We can answer your questions about working in independent schools, early childhood education centres and ELICOS colleges.
Landed the job? Congratulations! Update to teacher membership to be fully covered in your job. We can help you understand your contract, check your classification, and ensure your pay is accurate.
Are you an IEU member with concerns about your work? Our IEU organisers are here to help! Call us on (02) 8202 8900 or email anytime: ieu@ieu.asn.au.
Better pay and conditions
We fight for (and win) better salaries and conditions
Support and payment recovery
In 2025, we recouped $4.4 million for our members.
Your voice through advocacy
The union speaks up for you in policy discussions, government inquiries and forums.
Industrial advice and support
We’re by your side when things go wrong.
Frequently asked questions
How does the union win better pay and conditions?
Like any trade union, the IEU exists to protect and advance its members’ interests.
Through a process called enterprise bargaining, we fight for (and win) better salaries and improved conditions, such as paid leave, superannuation, workload transparency, etc.
Not an IEU member yet? Join here.
How can the union support me at work?
Our expert staff provide information, advice and representation on all issues affecting your employment and working conditions. This includes legal advice and support in the event of unfair dismissal, advice on salary and payment matters, your leave entitlements, issues of legal liability, and the general rights and responsibilities of teachers and support staff.
Any member with a problem or enquiry should seek immediate assistance from the IEU. Email ieu@ieu.asn.au, or call 8202 8900.
Country members can contact the IEU toll-free on 1800 467 9435.
How does the union advocate for me?
We represent your interests through submissions to, and advocacy with, governments, education authorities, including NESA and TQI, and law reform committees. We make sure you have a seat at the table for the discussions that matter most to the sector.
How can the union support my professional growth?
The union offers a range of professional development courses to support you through throughout your career, from accreditation assistance to guidance on leadership and management.
Learn more about our current available PD here.
Are there any other benefits to joining the union?
As a union member, you are entitled to access other benefits that enhance your lifestyle and well-being, including opportunities for retail, recreation, travel, health cover and financial benefits.
The greater the membership strength of the union, the more benefits we are able to offer members. We also continue to source and procure additional opportunities to complement our existing suite of benefits to further assist our members professionally and personally.
Read more about the additional benefits of membership here.
Who can join the IEU?
The IEU is the union for teachers and support staff in non-government schools, colleges and early childhood education and care (ECEC).
Our members are teachers, principals, administrative and support staff, learning support and wellbeing staff, and maintenance and operational staff. They are administrative staff, Aboriginal Education Officers, teacher’s aides, laboratory assistants and library assistants, canteen staff, nurses, counsellors, boarding-house supervisors, bus drivers, grounds-keepers, archivists and many other non-teaching employees in the non-government education sector.
Not an IEU member yet? Join here.
It pays to be union
Make the most of your membership
Member benefits
IEU members enjoy a suite of benefits, including opportunities for retail, health cover and financial benefits.
Professional learning
Our professional learning opportunities are designed to support at every stage of your career.
Stay up to date!
The IEU offers three publications to keep you up to date on industrial and professional issues:
Newsmonth: News, views and updates on campaigns and enterprise bargaining, professional development and education policy
Independent Education (IE): The union’s nationwide professional journal includes in-depth profiles of prominent figures, education research and member interviews
Bedrock: Our specialist publication for teachers in the early childhood education and care sector. Includes industrial updates and the latest sector news and research.
Get all the latest union updates as they arrive – follow us on social media. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin and Bluesky.
