That ICPA (Aust) advocate to the Department of Employment, Workplace Relations and all other relevant government agencies to recognise and implement a wage system for Home Tutors under the Pastoral Award.
The role of the Home Tutor is almost exclusively unique to the pastoral industry, and as it currently stands there is no guidelines or award rates for the Governess / Home Tutor. Many businesses who pay according to the award pay rate system have no clarity as to what award or minimum wage pay rate and conditions a home tutor should receive.
A Home Tutor requires no formal training, and the skill level of the home tutor is dependent on the requirements in the schoolroom. This position plays a crucial role in educating and supporting children in Australia’s geographically isolated areas. Recognising the role under the Pastoral Award ensures equity and consistency, especially compared to similar roles in urban areas or public-school environments.
By including the position of ‘Home Tutor’ under the pastoral award rather than “Miscellaneous” it will allow for businesses to hire a home tutor under the ‘88 days’ rule. It will give clarity to both employers and job seekers regarding the minimum wage rates of pay and hours. Establishing a step in the right direction to firstly gain recognition of the position, then provide a platform for assistance with funding the role via a Distance Education Teaching Subsidy. Currently, the hours and rates of pay vary greatly between the various businesses.
Case Study
One of our Katherine Branch families who are employed by a pastoral company currently employ home tutors as well as all other station staff under an Enterprise Bargaining Agreement. This EBA stipulates the conditions of employment such as leave entitlements, levels of pay and various skills for each level. Home Tutor / Governess are covered under a EBA and may be identified as, but not limited to:
7.3.6 LEVEL 1 – Home Tutor / Governess / Nanny The home tutor or governess or nanny provides support, tutoring and supervision of children living on stations.
Education
• Coordinate and supervise the daily school lessons and educational program as per curriculum,
• Plan and maintain a structured schoolroom.
• Organise and provide materials and equipment needed prior to commencing lessons.
In this employment circumstance, home tutors are able to be paid a variety of pay rates according to their experience, work performance and qualifications and both employee and employer have a guideline of the minimum work requirements and employment conditions. By having a definition of the role outlined within the pastoral award along with employment conditions, we are hoping that further to giving important recognition for a crucial role in educating Geographically Isolated children, this will be a strong starting point for a Distance Education Teaching Subsidy.
