Queensland teacher pay rise: Key details explained

The Queensland Government has announced an 8 per cent pay rise offer for the state’s teachers as part of a new three-year agreement.

Under the proposal, every teacher in Queensland would earn a minimum salary of $100,000 by November 2028. This marks a significant milestone for the state’s education workforce. It is one of the strongest pay commitments made in recent years.

The offer follows months of discussions between the government and the Queensland Teachers’ Union. It comes after around 50,000 teachers took part in industrial action in August . The government hopes the new agreement will encourage people to pursue a teaching career and attract more professionals to regional and remote schools. Staffing shortages have been especially challenging in these areas. The deal also reflects broader national efforts to make teaching a more sustainable and rewarding long-term career.

So, what else does the deal include — and how has it been received?

What is included in the deal?

Under the new deal, teachers will receive a pay rise of 3 per cent in 2025. This will be followed by two 2.5% pay rises in 2026 and 2027. It will also include:

• Attraction and retention for regional teachers: The new deal also includes a $1,000 attraction and retention payment for regional teachers.
• Incentives for new teachers: New teachers will receive a $400 incentive to help ease financial pressure as they begin their careers.
• Incentives for school camps: Teachers who attend school camps will receive $100 per night. This recognises the additional time and responsibility involved.
• New safety taskforce: This taskforce is designed to improve working conditions for teachers and stamp out violence. It follows growing concerns about classroom safety and behavioural issues in schools.
• Higher salaries for principals: Principals will receive an average salary of more than $200,000. This acknowledges the complexity of managing large and diverse school communities.

According to the state government, there are also plans to reduce the administrative workload of teachers. This includes upgrading IT systems, cutting down on paperwork, and improving efficiency. These measures will allow teachers to focus more on classroom teaching and student outcomes. The changes are part of a wider push to modernise the public education system and support teachers in delivering quality learning experiences.

To further support educators, 140 Workplace Health and Safety Officers will be appointed to complete risk assessments in place of teachers. Two student-free days will also be moved from Easter to the end of the year. This will give teachers a longer end-of-year break and a better work-life balance.

What has been the reaction?

The teachers union welcomed the improved pay and new safety taskforce, describing them as a “step in the right direction.” However, concerns remain about heavy workloads, staffing shortages, and teacher burnout. These issues have contributed to rising resignation rates across the country.

Teachers will get a final vote on whether to accept the offer tomorrow.

This new pay deal marks another major development in Australia’s education sector. It reflects ongoing efforts to attract and retain skilled professionals. For those considering their next move — whether a career in teaching or a new government or community role. This makes now the ideal time to ensure your application documents stand out.

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Article References

Brewster, A (27 October 2025) ‘Queensland government makes three-year 8 per cent pay rise offer to state’s school teachers‘, ABC News, accessed 30 October 2025.

Innes, R (27 October 2025) ‘Qld teachers to earn $100,000 minimum annually under state government pay deal’, Courier Mail, accessed 30 October 2025.

Scott, M (27 October 2025) ‘Queensland teachers given Friday deadline on final pay deal’, The Australian, accessed 30 October 2025.