University of Canberra (UC) staff have voted in favour of the proposed University’s Enterprise Agreement 2026, marking a significant milestone following an extensive period of consultation and bargaining.
Casual staff will benefit from a range of enhanced conditions under this Agreement and the increase in the University's superannuation contribution to 17 per cent by 2030 will help build greater long-term financial security for an important cohort of the University's workforce.
"The move to 17 per cent superannuation for casual staff is a significant investment in our people and recognises the important contribution casual employees make to the University community," Professor Shorten said.
"It provides greater retirement savings and financial security, and ensures casual staff have access to some of the most competitive employment benefits in the sector."
In addition to higher superannuation contributions, casual staff will continue to have access to benefits including up to 30 weeks' paid parental leave for primary carers, long service leave and expanded opportunities for professional and career development.
The Agreement represents the outcome of months of collaboration and negotiation to deliver a strengthened employment framework, enhanced workplace benefits and salary increases for staff.
Casual staff benefits include greater emphasis on career development, access to 30 weeks of paid parental leave for primary carers and access to long service leave amongst others.
“The University remains committed to fostering a workplace that recognises and rewards our people while supporting the flexibility, wellbeing and opportunities they need to thrive; and this Enterprise Agreement provides a strong foundation as we continue to deliver for our students, staff and the Canberra community,” Professor Shorten said.
Under the proposed Agreement, staff will receive a total salary increase of 14.5 per cent across five pay rises, equating to approximately 15.35 per cent when compounded, and notably an increase in superannuation contributions for casual staff to 17 per cent by 2030.
In addition to salary increases, the new Agreement includes new wellbeing, flexibility and leave provisions, stronger workload and consultation processes, expanded support for Indigenous staff, improved parental leave arrangements, and measures supporting the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
University of Canberra Vice-Chancellor and President Professor The Honourable Bill Shorten said the new Enterprise Agreement is good for staff and provides confidence for the years ahead.
"This is a positive outcome for our staff and the University,” he said. "This Enterprise Agreement rewards our people, strengthens our employment framework and supports the University's future.”
Following endorsement by staff, the University will now submit the Enterprise Agreement to the Fair Work Commission for approval.
Once approved by the Fair Work Commission, the Agreement will come into effect 21 days after approval.
Until that time, the current University of Canberra Enterprise Agreement 2023-2026 will continue to operate.