Tasmanian Government “wage freeze” proposal

AEU Tasmanian Branch President Terry Polglase said:

“The AEU is extremely concerned at an apparent plan by the State Government to introduce a public sector wages freeze and the negative impact this will have on the economy and community.”

“Today’s media reports were the first we have heard of such a radical plan.”

“Teachers and other education workers in public education have a legally binding agreement which has a modest (2%) pay rise in line with the previous state government public sector wages policy.”
“It is totally unacceptable that a government should attempt to disregard legal agreements that have been made with workers in education and TasTAFE.”

“Teachers in public education had just been applauded for their excellent work in the Tasmanian Auditors General report and a wages freeze would be a slap in the face for quality education.”

“Workload is accepted as a huge problem in public education and this state government move will hit morale of teachers at a time when we are asking them to do even more with less.”

“We’ve spoken to the Premier’s office today and will write to seek urgent further clarification.”
AEU Tasmanian Branch President Terry Polglase