The Victorian Labor Government has secured an in-principle deal to improve TAFE teacher pay and conditions, supporting Victoria’s renewable energy workforce and other key sectors.
Endorsed by the Australian Education Union (AEU), the agreement includes wage increases, a modernised classification system, and more time for assessment and professional development — critical steps in attracting and retaining top teaching talent.
With four in five future jobs expected to come through the TAFE system, Victoria is set to welcome around 90,000 new students in 2025. Ensuring high-quality training is essential as the state transitions to a clean energy economy.
The agreement provides an immediate pay rise, followed by 1.5 per cent increases every six months, alongside reforms to better support competency-based training.
TAFE teachers will receive increased hours for planning, assessment, and student engagement, helping to deliver stronger educational outcomes.
The State Government said in order to further encourage careers in TAFE teaching, the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment has been added to the Free TAFE list, removing financial barriers for aspiring educators.
Additionally, the Victorian Budget 2024/25 has allocated funding for a modern HR system to support recruitment and professional development across the TAFE network.
Victoria’s Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney highlighted the vital role TAFE plays in equipping workers for the future.
“Our TAFE teachers are world-class, and they’re training our state’s future workforce to build the homes we need, support our clean energy transition, and provide care for those who need it,” she said.
The in-principle agreement now awaits a vote by TAFE teachers and approval by the Fair Work Commission.
For more renewable and solar news, subscribe to ecogeneration.