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Victoria Schools Shut: Teachers Strike for Better Pay
24 Mar
Summary
- Thousands of Victorian teachers and staff are on strike impacting up to 500 schools.
- Teachers are demanding a 35% pay rise over four years, citing low pay and high workloads.
- The government has offered an 18.5% pay increase as negotiations continue.
Public schools across Victoria experienced widespread disruption on March 24, 2026, as thousands of teachers, principals, and education support staff commenced a 24-hour strike. This action, the first of its kind in over 13 years, significantly affected up to 500 schools, with many advising parents not to send children to school.
The strike was organized by the Australian Education Union (AEU) following a 98% vote in favor, driven by concerns over low pay and excessive workloads. AEU members are seeking a 35% pay increase over four years, smaller class sizes, and better mental health and classroom support.
The Victorian government has put forward an 18.5% pay offer, which was made after the union moved towards industrial action. This offer includes phased pay rises starting in April and an overtime allowance. Despite the strike, the education department stated schools would remain open, though capacity for student supervision would be limited.
Leaders from unions, including the Australian Council of Trade Unions, expressed strong support for the striking teachers, highlighting that Victorian educators are currently the lowest-paid in the country. Teachers in Catholic and independent sectors also voiced solidarity, with their unions pursuing similar pay and condition improvements.
