Academics, teachers and professional staff at the University of Newcastle (UoN) have sent a resounding message to management that they will not be bullied.
Following more than 15 months of discussions, the UoN put its new Enterprise Agreements to a ballot late last week after negotiations with unions had stalled.
It included a 9.5% salary rise over three years, six additional days of paid leave per year, more flexibility in the use of other leave and an increase of superannuation for casual staff from 10% to 17%.
From a total of 4,401 eligible voters, only 2,805 took part in the three-day process.
But, of that, 2,266 rejected the uni’s proposal, with just 539 people agreeing to it.
“We felt it was important to give staff an opportunity to vote on our proposed agreements,” Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said.
“We’ve heard clearly that the package of benefits we are offering in the isn’t right yet.”
National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) Newcastle branch president Associate Professor Terry Summers said the overwhelming “no” response was a vote for secure jobs, safe workloads and fair pay for all UoN staff.
“We know a better deal can be achieved for all parties,” he explained.
“The NTEU and Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) will resume good faith bargaining with university management to protect working conditions and stop cuts in real pay.
“Unfortunately, the timing of the ballots meant that many casual and sessional staff were not eligible to vote – and we heard from many who were frustrated and angry their voices could not be heard.
“The commitment of staff to quality teaching, innovate research, and student support is what ensures the reputation of the university.
“Their contribution must be valued.
“Staff working conditions are student learning conditions, too.
“That cannot be forgotten.
“The NTEU will continue to fight for staff conditions and to ensure that we protect members’ rights.
“Now more than ever, it is essential that workers know their rights and that they have strong representation and advocacy.
“We urge everyone to join their union.”
In the meantime, the UoN will head back to the drawing board.
“We’ll take some time to reflect on the feedback we have received from staff directly over the past week about what is most important to them,” Professor Zelinsky said.
“We will engage further with them early next year as we consider the next steps.”
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