Queensland teacher aides and school cleaners set for pay rise under in-principle EBA agreement

The Queensland Government has reached a landmark in-principle enterprise bargaining agreement with the United Workers' Union (UWU), paving the way for higher wages and improved conditions for thousands of teacher aides and school cleaners.

The UWU has endorsed both certified agreements in-principle, with the offers to now proceed to member ballots. If approved, all teacher aides and cleaners will take part in a full workforce ballot in early 2026.

Reaching an early agreement means wage increases for both groups will be backdated to 1 November 2025, pending final approval.

Under the proposed teacher aide agreement, workers would receive:

• Guaranteed wage rises totalling 8% over three years
• A CPI Adjustment Payment of up to 10.5%
• Enhancements to the Educational Support for Students with Disability Allowance, including higher payments and CPI indexation
• Additional time in lieu for attending overnight school camps
• A trial allowance for administering medication
• A streamlined process to access additional working hours

For school cleaners, the proposed deal includes:

• Guaranteed wage rises totalling 8% over three years
• A CPI Adjustment Payment of up to 10.5%
• An increase to the Experienced Cleaners' Allowance, indexed to future salary movements
• Ongoing funding for training and education
• Paid leave or time in lieu to attend training

Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said the more than 20,000 teacher aides and 7,000 school cleaners across the state play a vital role in Queensland schools.

"This agreement recognises the dedication of our teacher aides and cleaners and ensures they will earn more than ever before while enjoying improved workplace conditions," he said.

"The offers reflect the government's commitment to acting on the feedback from UWU members. Both sides have worked hard throughout negotiations to deliver the best possible outcome.

"We deeply value the contribution these workers make every day in supporting Queensland students and school communities."