Calls of MP and union answered: Visiting teachers retained

By Jay Bryce

Aug 24, 2023

Concerns raised: Representatives from various organisations that assist deaf people with state Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe and Victorian Nationals MPs. Photo by Supplied

The Andrews Government has announced it will be retaining visiting teacher positions in the state’s education system.

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This comes after more than 80 specialised teachers from the decades-long Visiting Teacher Service were made redundant.

State Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe shared her disagreement with the redundancies.

Ms O’Keeffe and her National Party colleagues met with representatives from the DeafHub Bendigo, Deaf Victoria, Deaf Australia and Deaf Aboriginal Services at parliament recently, where they heard first-hand the “heart wrenching” impact removing visiting teachers would have had.

“There are huge concerns that voiceless children are having to face the consequences of being denied education that is equitable and accessible,” she said.

“The VT program has been around since the 1970s and while it may need updating, axing a service that has been one of the only fundamental support systems available in mainstream schools with special needs in regional Victoria is disheartening.”

Victorian Education Minister Natalie Hutchins’ decision is being lauded for responding to the appeals made by Australian Education Union members, parents, caregivers and educational institutions.

This commitment guarantees that students in public schools with significant additional needs will retain access to crucial education and support services provided by visiting teachers.

AEU Victorian Branch president Meredith Peace underscored the expertise and specialisation of visiting teachers, emphasising their essential contribution to the success of public education.

“This is an important win for our members and the students, their families and schools they work with,” Ms Peace said.

“AEU members are congratulated for all their efforts to campaign against these cuts.

“We are pleased that the minister has genuinely engaged with the AEU, parents, disability advocacy groups, families and the community, leading to the removal of this proposal.

“Visiting teachers are expert, specialised teachers who play a crucial role in our public schools and help ensure that students in need get the supports they require to thrive academically and socially.

“And this union win ensures that visiting teachers will continue to play an important role across Victoria’s public schools.”