After months of advocacy and negotiation, the issue of unpaid leave for teachers who started later in 2023 has been resolved. This is a significant achievement for our union and underscores the power of collective action in defending members’ rights.
The Problem:
Teachers who began their contracts after January 2023 were not paid for the full six-week December/January break due to not accruing enough annual leave. This left many teachers without pay during a critical period. The AEU NT quickly intervened, negotiating with the Department of Education, OCPE, and DCDD to ensure a fair solution for all affected members.
The Resolution:
In May 2024, a Commissioner for Public Employment Determination was issued, confirming that all affected teachers would receive their back pay. By August, DCDD confirmed that all eligible employees had been paid. This is a win for our union, ensuring no member was left without their due entitlements.
Looking Forward:
These payment arrangements are now part of the proposed Enterprise Agreement, ensuring all teachers, regardless of their accrued leave, will be paid during future holiday breaks.
Next Steps:
If you believe you haven’t received your back pay, please submit an enquiry via the AEU NT website. This win highlights the strength of our union and our commitment to ensuring fairness for all educators.