After months of respectful but frustrating negotiations, the University of Newcastle has refused to move on key staff claims — fair workloads, job security, and equity for casuals including 17% superannuation . Management’s position appears to be clear: staff are expected to carry the burden of cuts and restructures.
Now, NTEU members at UON are being asked to make our position clear. The Fair Work Commission has authorised a protected action ballot closing 3 October 2025 . By voting YES, members will be exercising our protected right to strike in support of a fair agreement.
This ballot is about more than clauses on paper. It’s about solidarity, power, and respect. It’s about saying that we will not accept endless restructures, insecure work, and unsafe workloads while management ignores the voices of staff.
When we act together, we win. Every step forward – from progress on casual super, to recognition of staff workloads – has come because management can see we are organising, building power, and preparing to take action.
Now is the moment to turn that strength into action. A united YES vote will send the message loud and clear: UON staff are standing together for secure jobs, fair workloads, and a better university.
