Anti-discrimination amendments shameful and unjust

Independent Education Union - Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT)

The union representing teachers and support staff in Northern Territory non-government schools has called the passing of the Northern Territory Government's amendments to anti-discrimination laws shameful and unjust.

Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) Branch Secretary Terry Burke said reinstating religious discrimination exemptions for faith-based schools was unnecessary and divisive.

“For three years, NT faith-based schools have operated without these exemptions,” Mr Burke said.

“Reintroducing them undermines community values, especially when public funds support these institutions," he said.

Mr Burke said employers already have the right to assess candidate suitability during the hiring process and warned those employers who had pushed for the changes will be held accountable.

“Our union will oppose any use of these exemptions and will continue to work with other organisations that are committed to ensuring all Territorians live and work in a fair and equitable community,” he said.

ENDS

The Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) represents more than 17,000 teachers, school support staff, principals, early childhood education and VET and RTO employees across Queensland and the Northern Territory. www.ieuqnt.org.au

Laura Wise, IEU-QNT Communications Manager: [email protected] / 0419 653 131