[Greens-Media] Sue Pennicuik - TAFE Teachers pay should be top priority for state government

[Susan.Pennicuik at parliament.vic.gov.au]

Wednesday 20 August, 2008

TAFE teachers pay should be top priority for state government

"The state government should concentrate on improving the pay and working 
conditions of TAFE teachers to attract and retain the best staff so that 
students receive the quality training they need and deserve," says Sue 
Pennicuik Greens Spokesperson for Skills and Workplace Participation.

"Victorian TAFE teachers stopped work for the first time in a decade 
today, frustrated that the Victorian TAFE system is the lowest funded in 
Australia and that they are paid up to $21,000 less than their NSW 
counterparts," she said.

"Victorian TAFE teachers have not had a pay increase since September 2006 
and their salaries are as much as $26,000 below those of teachers in 
Victorian state primary and secondary schools," she went on to say.

 "It is difficult to see how it is possible to attract and retain 
qualified and experienced tradespeople to work in the TAFE system on a 
starting salary of $42,000," said Ms Pennicuik.

A recent survey of TAFE teachers found that nearly three-quarters had 
thought about leaving in the last 12 months and more than half see 
themselves working elsewhere within five years. Poor pay is not the only 
issue affecting TAFE teachers. Six out of 10 are currently employed on 
short-term contracts. The high rate of casual and contract employment in 
TAFE’s is a prime reason many teachers do not see a future for themselves 
in the TAFE sector.

"Everyone is talking about the skills shortage, and there is a clear need 
for more places in TAFE colleges for Victorians who want to improve their 
skills and qualifications. However, the government is proposing to 
increase fees for TAFE courses, which is unlikely to raise student numbers 
and will be a disincentive to low income students and their families," 
said Ms Pennicuik.

For further information:  Sue Pennicuik 0407 000 270

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