NSW Government Urged to Increase Funding
Community preschool teachers will gather on Wednesday, 6th May, at the top of Martin Place in Sydney to demand fair pay rises from the NSW government. This rally, beginning at 10:00 am, is organized by the Independent Education Union (IEU) and includes participation from NSW politicians, community preschool teachers, Unions NSW Secretary Mark Morey, and IEUA NSW/ACT Branch Acting Secretary David Towson.
Hundreds of educators, parents, children, and supporters will dress in bright pink as they advocate for increased funding just before the NSW government announces its budget in June. The rally highlights the pay gap between preschool educators and their peers in schools and long day care centers.
David Towson, Acting Secretary of the IEUA NSW/ACT Branch, emphasised, “Preschool teachers and educators need the NSW government to boost funding for community preschools in the June budget so they can be paid fairly for providing high-quality education.”
Background and Demands
The IEU has been advocating for a 15% pay rise for preschool staff to correct what it describes as systemic gender-based undervaluation. Community preschools rely solely on NSW government funding and parent fees. Without adequate funding, they face potential fee increases or enrolment caps.
In February, the Fair Work Commission recommended reviewing funding to improve conditions for preschool educators. Towson urged the government to heed this advice to address staff shortages and ensure the sustainability of the preschool sector.
Preschool staff earn up to 30% less than school teachers with similar qualifications and 15% less than long day care educators. Community preschools are managed by volunteer committees of parents who prioritise children’s education and safety.
Funding for these preschools comes exclusively from the NSW government and parent fees, with no federal government support. In the current cost-of-living crisis, it is crucial to avoid fee increases for families.
After months of negotiations, the NSW government has yet to commit to a funding increase. “Without an increase in NSW government funding to lift pay and conditions, community preschools may be forced to cap enrolments because of staff shortages or increase fees for families,” Towson warned.
The IEUA NSW/ACT Branch represents over 32,000 teachers, principals, and support staff across various independent educational settings.
