End-of-Half-Semester Travel (EHST) entitlement (NTPS Educators EA)
We are still in implementation discussions with the Department of Education and Training (DET) regarding the End-of-Half-Semester Travel (EHST) entitlement in the NTPS Educators Enterprise Agreement.
This entitlement applies during the two half-semester breaks each year (end of Term 1 and end of Term 3).
DET has acknowledged the entitlement and drafted a supporting policy, but the operational procedures are still awaiting final internal approval. We have been advised this approval process has been delayed due to pressures on DET to support Emergency Management across multiple regions.
Term 1 break (Easter holidays): what members can do now
If you meet the eligibility requirements and have not yet accessed support for this break (for example, by using an existing FOIL entitlement), you may wish to apply for EHST through the interim process.
An interim payment process has been established. The interim Payment Request Form is available here:
Evidence to keep (for your claim)
You can provide evidence after you return from the break, but please keep clear records of travel and costs in case they are required to support a claim, including:
- Screenshots/photos of boarding passes and travel itineraries
- Odometer readings (start and end) if driving
- Any other supporting documents relevant to the travel claim
What we understand so far (based on the current draft policy position)
The current draft indicates reimbursement is expected to cover:
- Commercial airfares, and/or
- Driving costs for travel to a regional center (for example, Darwin or Alice Springs) from eligible remote locations.
Claims are expected to be based on kilometers traveled by road, capped at the cost of a return economy commercial flight. Charter flights and accommodation are not expected to be covered.
EHST operates separately from FOIL; however, in some situations members may prefer to use an existing FOIL entitlement instead.
Next steps
We are working with DET and DCDD to finalize an information sheet and a clear payment application process. We are also seeking answers on key issues including charter flight provisions, policy release timelines, and claim requirements.
We will update members as soon as new information becomes available.