AEU welcomes state funding for COVID safety measures

The following quotes are attributable to Meredith Peace, AEU Victorian Branch President:

The Australian Education Union Victorian Branch welcomes the State Government’s investment of $190 million to help schools ensure there are appropriate ventilation measures in place and to provide additional outdoor learning spaces, and that schools and early childhood settings are as safe as possible for the return of students, teachers, principals and education support staff next term.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the union has consistently and conscientiously encouraged our members in schools, early childhood and TAFE and disability services and the broader community to follow the public health advice.

We have taken this position in recognition of the expertise of the public health authorities and the Chief Health Officer, and that this is the best way to keep our members, families and the students they teach and support as safe as possible.

We have sought COVID-19 vaccination priority arrangements for all education workers since the start of the year in recognition of their status as essential workers and we have taken every opportunity since vaccinations became available to encourage our members to get a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as they were eligible.

The union’s position continues to be that our members and the community should follow the public health advice in relation to COVID-19 safety measures, vaccination requirements and the safe return to on-site learning.

We will continue to work with the State Government on the implementation of the ventilation and vaccination measures announced by the Deputy Premier and Education Minister today.

Our members look forward to the safe return to on-site learning and to continuing to teach and work with students and children in schools and early childhood settings.

Media contact: Alys Gagnon 0438 379 977