Thousands strike across Victoria schools
Thousands of teachers, principals and support staff have walked off the job across Victoria today. The statewide strike marks the first major industrial action by public school staff in more than a decade. Up to 30,000 education workers are believed to be involved. As a result, more than 500 schools face closures or limited operations. Many schools remain open for supervision only. However, officials advised parents to keep children home where possible.
Why teachers are striking
The strike follows months of stalled negotiations between the state government and the Australian Education Union (AEU). Teachers are pushing for a 35 per cent pay rise over four years. They also want smaller class sizes and better classroom support. In contrast, the Victorian Government has offered around 18 to 18.5 per cent. The union rejected that proposal, arguing it fails to address workload pressures. Additionally, union members say wages in Victoria lag behind other states. Consequently, recruitment and retention challenges continue to grow.
Melbourne rally draws thousands
Thousands of striking workers gathered in Melbourne’s CBD today. Rallies began at Trades Hall before marching to State Parliament. Importantly, the turnout highlighted growing frustration among educators. Meanwhile, the Fair Work Commission approved the industrial action after overwhelming support from union members.
Government and political response
Premier Jacinta Allan urged the union to call off the strike and return to negotiations. The government maintains its offer is fair and includes improved conditions. However, pressure continues to mount for a revised deal. Opposition figures have criticised the situation, pointing to financial mismanagement and delays in reaching an agreement. As a consequence, students, parents and school communities now face ongoing disruption. Our teachers deserve a fair pay rise. Yet after years of financial strain, negotiations remain unresolved. The Allan Labor Government must urgently settle this deal and restore stability to classrooms.
What happens next
The union has warned further strike action could follow if no agreement is reached. For now, schools across Victoria continue to operate under disrupted conditions. Parents should monitor updates from their individual schools as negotiations continue.
