Media Release
Tuesday 21 October 2025
Families Paying the Price for Government Inaction
The Tasmanian Association of State School Organisations (TASSO) acknowledges the upcoming stop work action planned by the Australian Education Union (AEU), expressing disappointment that such measures have become necessary to highlight ongoing challenges in Tasmania’s government education system.
TASSO President John Allan said the planned action reflects deep frustration across the education workforce, a frustration that many families share.
“It’s disappointing that this action is needed at all,” Mr Allan said. “When teachers and support staff feel they have no choice but to walk off the job, it’s a clear signal that our schools are under serious pressure.”
Mr Allan said ensuring every government school is well resourced is critical to student success.
“Schools must be staffed and supported to meet the diverse needs of students. That means adequate teaching numbers, learning support, and access to allied health professionals,” he said. “When a school doesn’t have enough people or resources, it’s the students who miss out.”
TASSO also raised concerns about the instability caused by short-term contracts for key support roles.
“Students with additional needs rely on trusted relationships and consistent support,” Mr Allan said. “When support staff are on year-by-year contracts, that continuity disappears. It’s not good for staff, it’s not good for schools, and it’s certainly not good for students.”
While acknowledging the right of educators to take industrial action, TASSO emphasised that families are being left to manage the fallout.
“Any interruption to learning is difficult, but we particularly acknowledge the strain this places on families managing casual or shift work,” Mr Allan said. “When you’re already juggling cost-of-living pressures, even a few hours of lost work or unexpected care can make a real difference to the weekly budget.”
Mr Allan said the responsibility for resolving these issues lies squarely with government.
“Families should not be caught in the crossfire,” he said. “The government must act urgently to ensure schools are properly resourced, staffed and stable – because our students deserve nothing less.”
TASSO is calling for urgent and meaningful dialogue between government and the AEU to resolve ongoing disputes and restore stability for students, staff, and families.
“Families, educators and students all want the same thing. Schools that are safe, supported and set up for success,” Mr Allan said. “Let’s get back to the table and make that happen.”
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Bennett
Tasmanian Association of State School Organisations (TASSO)
info@tasso.org.au
(03)62437718
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