Increased pay gap announcement “not good enough”

The NSW Teachers Federation have said the lifted wage cap from 2.5 per cent was “not good enough”, stating it “does nothing to address the teacher shortage crisis facing NSW public schools”.

Gilgandra’s NSW Teachers’ Federation representative Bree Patton said that the cost of living will rise more rapidly than their wages.

“Inflation sits above five per cent. The teacher’s federation’s claim of a 5-7.5 per cent pay increase is needed to both reflect the complexities of the job for current teachers, as well as encourage future generations to enter into the profession,” said Miss Patton.

“We have to pay teachers what they are worth if we are to get the teachers we need,” said central west organiser for NSW Teachers Federation, Tim Danaher.

“What this government is asking teachers to do is work 60 hours a week for a salary that goes doesn’t even keep up with the cost of living.”

Mr Perrottet also announced in his press conference that every frontline healthcare worker would get a $3000 bonus, as a thank you for their contribution during COVID-19.

Also included was the announcement of a one off $4.5 billion funding package for the health sector, to be included in the upcoming state budget.

“It will make a real difference to ensure wherever you live from the city’s to the ‘burbs to the bush, you’ll have the best healthcare possible,” said Mr Perrottet.