Strong SOS conversations power IEU’s Catholic campaign in Geelong

Thirteen Reps and members from Geelong Catholic schools met in late September to discuss the SIA Statement of Support campaign, highlighting the region’s role as a driving force in IEU activism.

Organisers said they were amazed by the energy in the room.

“The Reps and members were having great conversations about the campaign in their schools, the priorities from the IEU’s LOC that are resonating most strongly with their sub-branch members and staff, and how they’ll be using these in SOS conversations,” our Organiser said. “Recruitment was also a big focus, and it was very clear to us that everyone was pretty fired up.”

Organisers were especially thrilled to see activist members join the group. Some came to support their Reps, some to learn more about the campaign, and some - most impressively - because their school doesn’t yet have an IEU Rep and they wanted to hear more.

The Organisers presented a full campaign overview, trained participants on holding SOS conversations, and discussed strategies suited to their schools. Attendees shared effective approaches already in use and planned how to gather Statements of Support through staff meetings, faculty discussions, and outreach to different staff groups.

The event wrapped up with informal networking, school-based discussions, and end-of-term celebrations. While Organisers recognised “the incredible work our reps and sub-branches have been doing,” the gathering also provided valuable insight into the issues of greatest importance to staff in their schools.

Log of claims items discussed:

• Salaries: Everyone felt very strongly about achieving strong pay rises.

• ES reclassification structure and allowances: Current structures do not adequately reflect the work of ES staff and must be improved to recognise the complexities and evolving nature of their roles.

• School closure days: Members seek a minimum 16 annually, with at least 2 for report writing, no more than 2 for professional development/curriculum, and the remainder as non-attendance days. These should not be used to acquit time in lieu.

• Overtime/TIL improvements.

Statement of Support conversations:

• Using key issues from the IEU’s Log of Claims to drive SOS conversations.

• How interstate salary gains were achieved through protected action

• Reps using delegate rights to inform all colleagues about the SIA and importance of SOS.

• Identifying and supporting activist members to assist with conversations, SOS collection, and building the collective.

• Celebrating school-level wins: member growth, effective use of delegate rights, and stronger consultative committees.

Organisers left the event convinced that IEU members know what’s at stake in the fight for an SIA.

“The vibe was fantastic, lots of laughs, and it’s clear we’re heading into the next phase of our campaign with even more momentum down Geelong way!”