Schools, TAFE workplaces and local communities in several NSW regions are being significantly affected by bushfires.
Federation is working closely with the Department of Education to ensure public education communities are supported.
The union understands Directors are working closely with principals to ensure timely and effective communication is maintained with teachers, staff and the community.
An up-to-date list of affected schools and colleges can be found on the Department’s website.
The union is aware that a number of schools have been significantly affected and that teachers who live in these areas may have also suffered damage and loss of property in the fires.
Events such as these have a devastating impact on communities and many individuals, including teachers and the students they teach.
Federation offers its support to affected members. Individual members and Federation Representatives in need of further advice should contact Federation’s Professional Support section on 1300 654 369 (toll free) or their Organiser.
Union help
Through Federation’s Emergency Relief Fund, it is able to offer affected members the following financial assistance to those directly affected by the bush fires:
- Members suffering financial hardship can apply for an exemption of up to six months from their contributions to the union. Written applications need to be made by the individual member, explaining their circumstances.
- In addition, on application, individual members can apply for an ex-gratia payment of up to $1000 to cover those teaching resources lost in the fire that are not covered by other forms of general insurance. This too is by individual application to Federation.
Information on accessing this support will be communicated to members in the affected areas in the coming days. If individual members need urgent assistance, they should contact Professional Support on 1300 654 369 (toll free). More information on the Emergency Relief Fund and the application form can be found online.
Support from teacher services organisations
Teachers Health
In unity with Federation, Teachers Health has announced an assistance package to support members who have been directly impacted by the fires.
Teachers Health members who have been adversely and directly impacted by the bushfires may be eligible to receive up to six months contribution relief on their health fund membership.
For more information, or to determine your eligibility for assistance, please email Jane Stower, [email protected].
Teachers Mutual Bank
Teachers Mutual Bank is aware that there may be a number of public school teachers affected by the crisis. A significant number of our membership resides in the affected areas and we are committed to supporting our members in these areas as well as the wider education sector.
More information can be obtained directly from Teachers Mutual Bank on 131221.