Victorian TAFE teachers have overwhelmingly endorsed a new agreement that will significantly increase salaries and improve working conditions.
The new agreement, which was negotiated by the Australian Education Union Victorian branch, will deliver a minimum salary increase of 21 per cent over four years, including a 14 per cent increase in the first 14 months of the deal.
This week, TAFE teachers across Victoria’s 12 TAFE institutes supported the agreement with an average yes vote of 98 per cent.
AEU Victorian Branch President Justin Mullaly said the formal endorsement of the agreement by TAFE teachers was a great outcome after an extensive period of industrial action and campaigning dating back to 2022.
'“This is a huge win for Victorian TAFE teachers, who have tirelessly campaigned for improved salaries and conditions for nearly three years,” Mr Mullaly said.
"Victorian TAFE teachers have been overworked and underpaid for far too long, leading to burnout and some even leaving the education sector.
“The endorsed agreement recognises the critical role TAFE teachers play in the community and acknowledges their contribution to Victoria’s economy, particularly within regional communities where TAFE provides significant vocational pathways for students.
"We all know that Victoria is currently experiencing a skills shortage in almost every occupation that requires a vocational education qualification.
“Victoria cannot address this shortage of skills without addressing the key concerns of TAFE teachers which are causing them to leave the classroom.
This agreement goes a long way to doing just that.”
The top rate for a classroom-based TAFE teacher will grow to $134,775 by the end of the agreement.
A current Level 3.3 teacher’s salary increases from $107,995 to $130,672 by the end of the agreement, with an increase of $9,769 at the commencement of the agreement.
A current Level 1.2 teacher’s salary increases from $83,429 to $100,912 by the end of the agreement, with an increase of $7,515 at the commencement of the agreement.
Under the agreement, TAFE teachers will now have 45 minutes of planning time for every hour of teaching, up from the current 30 minutes.
In-class assessment will now also be counted as teaching time, with both measures providing TAFE teachers more time to provide quality teaching and learning and to support their students.
The agreement endorsed by TAFE teachers will now be considered by the Fair Work Commission for approval before it can come into operation.
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16 May 2025