Statement of Support Frequently Asked Questions

The IEU is urging all staff in Victorian Catholic education to sign a statement of support for its Single Interest Authorisation (SIA) application — a step essential to ensure fair bargaining for pay rises and urgent workplace improvements.

Here’s a few quick answers to common queries we receive about the process.

What is an SIA?

A Single Interest Authorisation (SIA) is a legal mechanism the Fair Work Commission (FWC) can grant to allow employees from multiple employers to bargain collectively as if they were employed by a single entity. It strengthens employees’ ability to negotiate for better pay and conditions by offering access to good faith bargaining orders and protected industrial action.

What is a Statement of Support?

A signed Statement of Support is evidence that a staff member supports single interest bargaining. To secure an SIA, we must provide evidence that a majority of employees support that at every employer for whom we apply. Your employer will not see your Statement – only the Fair Work Commission will, if needed.

Why do staff in Victorian  Catholic education need an SIA?

Without basic bargaining rights, members lack leverage in negotiations. Employers can delay negotiations without consequence, while workers have no legal means to escalate. This imbalance leads to slower, less effective bargaining, with employees at a clear disadvantage.

Is the union delaying bargaining?

No. Bargaining could already be underway if employers had applied for an SIA when we suggested. The VCEA claims it wants a “quick resolution,” but their bargaining history is a litany of delays, dysfunction, and glacial progress.

What are the IEU’s main claims?

The IEU’s Log of Claims contains 101 claims, including pay increases of 37% over three years. Other claims cover workload measures, staff safety and specific conditions for different cohorts. It is the result of months of consultation with thousands of IEU members.

It is important that your details are up to date. Check now via Member Access.

How can I help us get an SIA?

Keep the conversation going with your colleagues and urge them to sign. Remember - people trust face to face conversations with people they know and trust. If your school does not have an IEU Rep, you can help collect support - contact your union

I’m not a union member –  why should I be involved?

This campaign benefits all staff. The negotiated Agreement will apply to everyone, so we ask all staff to sign to help us negotiate better pay and conditions for you and your colleagues.

Is the Statement of Support a public petition?

You are signing a statement to support the union’s SIA application – only the IEU and the FWC will see that you have done so. If a majority of staff at your employer sign, the FWC can grant a SIA that includes your employer.

Why is the union asking for such big pay rises?

Employers can’t afford not to pay their staff properly and deliver improved conditions. There is a workforce shortage and real improvements to salaries and conditions are urgently needed for the sustainability of our schools.

I signed up to educate, not to walk out. Will I have to go on strike?

No educator wants to be away from their duties, and strike action is a last resort – but also a very powerful bargaining chip. Often just the prospect of action is enough to secure fair pay and conditions. Protected industrial action requires a vote of union members, and doesn’t just mean strikes; it also includes bans on tasks, stop-work meetings, distribution of campaign materials or badge-wearing.

Why are bargaining rights so important?

We need big wins in this round of negotiations. Salaries in other states have jumped significantly ahead of Victoria, and workload issues need urgent attention. We’re fighting for better pay and conditions, but also for workload wins, protections for job security and for your professional autonomy.

Why is the union calling members directly? Why not just send a text or email?

We call members directly because some issues are too important to rely only on email, texts, or social media. A conversation makes sure you receive the information clearly, have the chance to ask questions, and understand exactly what’s at stake.

We also take privacy very seriously. Calls are made only to members and staff whose details are securely held by the union, and they are never shared with outside organisations. Speaking directly with you ensures that the message is accurate and confidential, and that you can make an informed decision.

When it comes to serious issues like pay, workload, and workplace rights, direct communication is the most effective way to build collective strength and make sure every member’s voice is heard.