Public school teachers across Ballarat and regional Victoria are preparing for a major industrial action as educators plan a 24-hour strike on July 23, 2026. The planned strike is part of an ongoing dispute between teachers, education support staff and the Victorian Government over concerns including wages, increasing workloads, staffing pressures and conditions across the public education system.
Members of the Australian Education Union (AEU) Victorian Branch have announced the planned walkout, saying teachers and school staff are under growing pressure due to rising administrative responsibilities, classroom challenges and a shortage of education workers. The union says the action is aimed at achieving improvements that will support both teachers and students.
Schools across Ballarat are expected to experience disruption, with individual schools advising families about possible changes to normal operations. The level of impact will depend on how many teachers and support staff participate in the strike. Parents and carers have been encouraged to stay updated through their local schools for information about supervision arrangements, closures or alternative learning options.
Teachers involved in the industrial action have highlighted several key concerns, including the need for better workload management, additional classroom support, improved resources and stronger measures to attract and retain skilled educators. Many teachers argue that excessive paperwork, planning requirements and administrative tasks are reducing the time available for direct student support and quality teaching.
The dispute follows negotiations between the Victorian Government and education representatives regarding a new workplace agreement. While discussions have included proposals for salary increases and improved conditions, the union has stated that pay alone does not address the broader challenges facing the profession.
Education workers say that ongoing pressure on teachers has contributed to burnout and difficulties in maintaining experienced staff within schools. They believe that improving working conditions is essential to ensuring students receive consistent, high-quality education.
The Victorian Government has continued discussions with teacher representatives and has expressed a desire to reach an agreement without further disruption to students and families. Government officials have acknowledged the important role teachers play in the community while maintaining that negotiations must consider budget responsibilities and long-term sustainability.
For Ballarat families, the upcoming strike has created uncertainty around school routines, childcare arrangements and student learning schedules. Schools are expected to provide further updates as the strike date approaches.
Community members have expressed mixed views about the planned action. While some families are concerned about disruption to education, others have shown support for teachers seeking improved conditions and resources.
The planned July 23 strike represents a significant moment in the ongoing negotiations between Victorian educators and the government. Both sides continue to discuss possible solutions, with the hope of reaching an agreement that supports teachers, education staff and students across the state.
As negotiations continue, Ballarat schools and families are encouraged to follow official updates and prepare for possible changes on the day of industrial action.
