United Voice News
BIG STEPS: ACT calls for Rally
For too long the Early Childhood Sector has been poorly recognised. The mismatch between wages and increasingly high levels of responsibility has led to a chronic turnover of staff affecting the continuity of care of our most precious resource. That’s why members of the BIG STEPS ACT Campaign Committee have developed the most ambitious plan this sector has ever seen. But it will take all of you standing together to win.
It’s time our Government and our Community recognises the vital role Early Childhood Education and Care plays in the future development of Australian children.
On Saturday the 18th of September 2010 Early Childhood Professionals and Community supporters will be rallying together to send a strong message to Candidates in this year’s federal election - make Early Childhood Education and Care a priority!
BIG STEPS Agenda
- PROFFESSIONAL WAGES – an increase of at least $10 per hour funded by the federal government and not shifted to working parents
- FEE FREE COURSES AND PAID TIME OFF TO ATTEND – It is essential that the new reforms are equitable and do not drive low paid men and women away from providing the best quality care
- TRAINING AND UPSKILLING - Consistent training standards with improved regulation of training providers
- RECOGNITION - The early childhood sector is recognised as a specialised profession
Between now and the 18th of September members of the BIG STEPS ACT Campaign Committee will be visiting services asking for your support by endorsing the BIG STEPS Agenda and attending the Rally.
The Committee will also be asking non members to support the Campaign by joining up to their union. Your service will receive a notice from a representative of the Committee by email.
It’s time for all early childhood professionals to say “yes” and get behind the BIG STEPS campaign for the future of the Early Childhood profession.
What you can do?
Ask your service if they haven’t already, to support the Campaign by inviting members of the BIG STEPS Committee to your service’s next staff meeting.
Ask your colleagues if they haven’t already, to support the campaign by joining up to the union – join on line www.lhmu.org.au
For information about BIG STEPS contact Christy at the union office on 6120 1205
Download this Member Update and the membership pamphlet to share with colleages at work.
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Photo: BIG STEPS Campaign Committee member Katie McCarthy with son Callum
