For the first time in history, school assistants in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) have walked off the job, demanding better recognition and pay for their often-overlooked roles. The strike, which took place on Wednesday, saw hundreds of learning support assistants, administrative staff, and other non-teaching school employees rally outside the ACT Legislative Assembly.
Reasons for the Strike
The industrial action was organized by the Australian Education Union (AEU), which represents the workers. Union officials argue that school assistants have been undervalued for years, with many earning as little as $25 per hour. They say the roles are critical to the functioning of schools, yet staff are often treated as second-class employees compared to teachers.
“We are the backbone of our schools,” said AEU ACT branch president Angela Burroughs. “We support students with disabilities, manage administrative tasks, and ensure classrooms run smoothly. It’s time our contributions are recognized with fair wages and conditions.”
Demands of the Strikers
The workers are calling for a new enterprise agreement that includes a pay rise of at least 10%, better job security, and a formal career structure. They also want the ACT government to acknowledge the increasing complexity of their roles, which now often involve specialized tasks such as supporting students with complex needs.
“We are not just ‘helpers’ anymore,” said Sarah Thompson, a learning support assistant at a Canberra primary school. “We are trained professionals who deserve respect and fair compensation.”
Government Response
The ACT Education Directorate said it was disappointed by the strike and urged the union to return to the bargaining table. In a statement, a spokesperson said the government had offered a 2.5% pay rise per year over three years, which it described as “fair and reasonable.”
“We value the contribution of all school staff,” the statement read. “However, we must balance the needs of workers with the financial constraints facing the territory.”
The union rejected the offer, calling it insufficient. Negotiations are expected to continue, with further strike action possible if a deal is not reached.
Impact on Students and Parents
The strike affected several schools across the ACT, with some forced to send students home early or combine classes. Parents expressed mixed reactions, with some supporting the workers and others frustrated by the disruption.
“I understand why they’re striking, but it’s tough for working parents,” said one mother, who asked not to be named. “I had to leave work early to pick up my son.”
The AEU has pledged to minimize disruption to students in future actions, but warned that further strikes remain on the table.
Broader Context
The strike comes amid a wider push for better pay and conditions for school support staff across Australia. Similar disputes have occurred in other states, including New South Wales and Victoria, where school assistants have also taken industrial action in recent years.
“This is not just about the ACT,” said Burroughs. “It’s about recognizing the vital role that school assistants play in education systems across the country.”
The ACT government has indicated it is willing to continue negotiations, but the union remains steadfast in its demands. The outcome of this dispute could set a precedent for school assistants nationwide.
