IEU Rep Karen Murphy on fairness, safety and respect
Karen with colleagues at Trades Hall.
For long-serving teacher Karen Murphy at St Mary’s Mansfield, becoming a union Rep was never about personal gain. It was about ensuring colleagues had a fair chance.
Her decision to take on the SIA campaign speaks to her courage and integrity, as she pushed herself out of her comfort zone.
Although she had previously served as a Rep, the SIA campaign prompted her to step back into the role, even as she approached retirement. “I was sick of just listening and getting frustrated,” Karen said. “My sister told me, ‘If you don’t do something, you just have to shut up.’ So I decided to get involved in this one project – the SIA campaign.”
“It doesn’t affect me personally anymore, but if the SIA gets through, it will make a real difference for everyone else. It’s important that staff know this matters, and that we’re on the same footing as teachers across Australia.”
Karen found that presenting clear information about pay disparities had an immediate impact. “People were shocked, as was I,” she said. “I’m not from Catholic schools originally, so it opened my eyes too.”
She does not describe herself as naturally outgoing or confrontational. “I get nervous, shaking even, but I knew if I didn’t address it now, I never would,” she said.
She credits union support as critical. “Having a big body like the IEU behind you, guiding what you can and can’t say, gives you real confidence. You know you’re not alone.”
Karen with Michelle Ramsey and Chris Ruys on the Rep’s Panel at Trades Hall.
For those considering becoming a Rep but concerned about conflict, Karen recommends working with others and relying on union support. “Even if your school has a small membership, you can find allies to help you. Delegation is key; it spreads the workload and gives you backup.”
Preparation and strategy underpin her approach. She developed detailed materials for staff, including presentations, fact sheets and background information, to address and prevent misinformation. She also challenged misleading claims and emphasised the collective benefits of union action.
Her commitment is reinforced by personal experience. “Twice, the union has stepped in for me when I was underpaid. Without that, I’d have fallen behind. Union membership really does pay for itself.”
Karen also highlights the long-term impact of union work. “It’s not just about what we achieve now. When I leave St Mary’s, if we’ve secured an SIA, I’ll feel good knowing I helped create something that lasts.
“It’s bigger than money. It’s about fairness, safety, and giving teachers the protection and respect they deserve. Even if you never need to claim anything, being part of this makes a difference – not just for you, but for future generations of staff and students.”