May 6, 2016: Catholic school employer representatives and IEUA representatives participated in a conference facilitated by the Fair Work Commission under the New Approaches program. The parties have been participating in this program with a view to moving towards resolving the current enterprise bargaining negotiations.

As an outcome of this conference, the parties drafted an agreed framework for proceeding with the New Approaches program.

To assist the process, all current and prospective protected industrial action will be suspended from 10 May until 10 July. All matters agreed in principle to date remain agreed in principle. Current Single Bargaining Unit meeting dates will be vacated and all outstanding matters will be progressed through the New Approaches program.

Employing authorities are hopeful that the commitment displayed by both parties during this conference will result in the settlement of the EB negotiations.

Employers affirm their commitment to pay back pay to 1 July 2015 (for teachers) and 1 May 2015 (for school officers and services staff) on a successful ballot for new agreements.