WA Public School Teachers Strike For Better Pay And Conditions

Thousands of WA public school teachers have walked off the job for the first time in over a decade after the State Government rejected their demands.

This strike was organised by the State School Teachers Union WA (SSTUWA), affecting many of the state’s 832 public schools.

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The union said this would be their “last resort” as they sought a 12 per cent pay rise over two years, and the government’s 11 per cent offer over three years was deemed insufficient. 

Union president Matt Jarman said: “We’ve got members who can’t afford fresh fruit and vegetables, who are under-insuring their properties and their belongings.”

“Some of our teachers are moving back home with their parents,” he said.

Jarman also highlighted the challenges teachers confront daily. 

“The state government needs to fix public education and it needs to fix it now,” he stated, citing the burden of large class sizes, additional student needs, and instances of violence.

After the rally, SSTUWA members voted to authorise more potential industrial action if an agreement is not reached by May 10.

Premier Roger Cook acknowledged the strike, expressing a willingness to work with the union on issues such as support for students with special needs. 

“We’ve heard that very clearly and we’re working with the union to reach (an) agreement on that package.”

However, he did not confirm if the government would increase its wage offer.

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