Independent bargaining: More employees say ‘No’ to get fair outcomes

In a sign of growing strength and solidarity in the sector, employees in Victorian and Tasmanian independent schools are increasingly willing to take action in support of better pay and conditions, and reject unfair non-union Agreements.

Recent negotiations have seen staff standing together and voting ‘No’ to employer proposals that fall short of expectations. Many are also taking protected industrial action – from wearing campaign badges or t-shirts, to imposing work limitations, right up to work stoppages – as a necessary step toward fairer outcomes.

This shift reflects growing frustration with stagnant pay, excessive workloads, and limited movement from employers in bargaining.

After years of going above and beyond, staff are pushing back against the imbalance between their dedication and what’s being offered – and are rejecting unfair deals.

Voting ‘No’ is a powerful tool

In recent bargaining rounds, more staff have scrutinised proposals, asked critical questions, and voted down offers that lacked meaningful improvements in key areas like pay, leave, workload protections, and job security. A ‘No’ vote is not a vote for disruption – it’s a vote for a better deal. It sends a clear message that employees won’t blindly accept Agreements that fail to reflect their value, workload, or rights.

When Agreements fall short of staff needs and expectations, employees have every right to reject them – and they are doing so.

Industrial action is on the table

Increasingly, staff are also demonstrating they are willing to take action if employers fail to listen. Protected industrial action is a legal and important part of the bargaining process. It is not a step taken lightly by our organisation or any of our members, but when taken collectively and strategically, it can be a powerful force in shifting the dynamics of negotiation.

Employees across the independent education sector are realising that action, when backed by union strength and democratic decision-making, can significantly improve offers at the bargaining table.

IEU members are more informed, more engaged, and more determined to achieve just outcomes. They know their worth and will no longer accept less than what is fair.

Unity makes the difference

The growing willingness to vote ‘No’ and to consider industrial action is also a testament to the power of collective voice. Union membership plays a critical role by coordinating responses, supporting staff through the bargaining process, and ensuring that legal protections are in place for those participating in action.

When staff act together, whether by voting, attending meetings, wearing IEU gear, or participating in work bans, they send a strong, unified message to employers: quality education depends on fair working conditions.

By standing strong together, they can reshape the future of work in the independent education sector, ensuring it is built on respect, equity, and a genuine commitment to quality education.