Counting the days

DENNIS LONG outlines key dates for the salaries campaign.

Hearing dates in the Industrial Relations Commission on Federation's claim for a 25 per cent increase in salaries are scheduled for December 16, 17 and 18 when final arguments are expected to be heard. In theory, a judgment could then be brought down at any time. The Commission breaks for the "law vacation" from the following Monday, December 22, until early February, however some judges are on duty during January and a decision could be brought down at that time.

Final arguments in the Catholic schools salaries case are expected to be heard on December 19.

TAFE classes conclude on December 5 with TAFE teachers on duty for non-teaching responsibilities until December 19.

Friday December 19 is also the last day of school before the holidays.

On December 31, the current award expires. Prior to the last state election, the government repeatedly promised to have a new award in place by January 1.

Through the website, Federation runs an "announce" list to alert more than 6000 people of significant developments. This list includes Federation members, parents, journalists and interested people in the community. The union also maintains a "campaigns" list of nearly a thousand Teachers Federation members who can be contacted if urgent action is required. In 2000, Federation members turned out in big numbers in Farrer Place on January 25 during the school holidays to protest the lack of progress on salaries.

Advertising to support the campaign will continue during January and February.

Australia Day falls on Monday January 26.

School teachers in the Eastern Division return to work on January 27. TAFE teachers begin the non-teaching period at the same time with lessons beginning on February 9. School teachers in the Western Division return to work on February 3.

The ALP National Conference will be held in Sydney January 29-31.

Council meets at least eight times a year, with the first meeting in 2004 scheduled for February 14. However, special meetings of the Council can be called by either the President or the General Secretary or by the decision of an earlier Council. Council normally meets on a Saturday but the Federation's Rules do not preclude a special meeting called on a workday.

Dennis Long is the Editor.

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Last Modified: 15 Nov 2005