Starting your teaching career can be both challenging and rewarding. The SSTUWA has long advocated for better support for graduate teachers. As a result of union members’ advocacy, graduate teachers can access a variety of benefits. These are designed to help you be the best teacher you can in the early years of your career.

It’s crucial to confirm that you’ve received these allocations, as they can occasionally go astray. If you’re unsure, don’t stress — help is available.

If you’ve signed a contract of six months or longer, here’s what you’re entitled to:

• Start-Up Allowance: Receive $2,000 pro-rata (previously $1,600) at the start of both your first and second years of teaching. This is paid via payroll, so keep an eye on your first few pay slips. If it doesn’t appear, speak to your Manager of Corporate Services (MCS).
• Additional Non-Contact Time: You’re allocated eight extra days of non-contact time during your first year, which might be scheduled as approximately one hour per week or two full days each term. The timing is flexible and can be negotiated with your principal or line manager. Use this extra time for planning, report writing, behaviour management, or other essential DOTT time tasks.
• Graduate Module Relief Funding: Your school receives funding for eight days of relief to allow you to attend graduate modules. If you attend these modules during school holidays or online, you’re entitled to paid time off in lieu (PTOIL). Ensure you confirm arrangements with your principal or line manager before enrolling in your first graduate module on PLIS (Professional Learning Information System).
• Curriculum Materials Allowance: A $150 allowance is provided to purchase classroom resources like textbooks, educational materials, or even a Bluetooth speaker. These items belong to you and can be taken with you if you move schools. Before purchasing, confirm with your MCS that the item is appropriate and clarify the process for reimbursement or payment.
• Contingency Allowance: This allowance helps cover costs for travel and accommodation when attending graduate modules one and two, particularly for regional graduates. The amount varies, starting at approximately $120 for those in the Perth metro area. Discuss how to access this allowance with your principal or MCS before attending your module.

You will also become eligible for the In-Class Coaching Program and, since the General Agreement 2021 (Schools), should only be required for internal relief by your agreement.

For more details, visit the Know Your Rights section here and review the New Educator Rights and Entitlements sheet here. If you still have questions, contact Member Assist at 9210 6060, 1800 106 683 or memberassist@sstuwa.org.au