| SSTUWA Executive: Bill Kilner |
 My name is Bill Kilner and I have been involved with State Education for over twenty-five years. In this time I have been a committed and active union member working to improve the well being of all members.I have worked at Primary Schools, Education Support Units, Juvenile Training Centres and Senior High School. Over the last fifteen years I have been a Union Convener, Union Representative, Branch Treasurer , District Representative at State Conference and now a member of Executive. In these positions, I have been instrumental in organizing various campaigns and members regarding numerous issues at a State and a local level. Some of these issues have been quite difficult, but throughout all this I have managed to achieve successful results for our union members. After our battle last year we now need to make our E.B.A. a real working document instead of what it is at the moment, a collection of statements that may or may not be followed by our employer. We have to be stronger in our negotiations with D.E.T. as it appears they hold the upper hand in most decisions. Issues like workload, impact of half year cohort, permanency, career structure, Merit Selection, M.S.B. and workplace bullying are all issues requiring proper attention, not just referred to EREC and left to fester in limbo. Preparation for a more professional approach to future negotiations with our employer and better management of our finances are other important issues we must deal with now, in a coherent plan for the future. Creating a union free of political affiliations and dealing with members issues is the priority. I have had considerable interaction with D.E.T. Officers and Senior Administrators and I am aware of their unique perception of what collaboration means. Consequently, I believe I have the strength of character and commitment to the day to day needs of classroom teachers that will ensure I represent members. My regular contributions to forums clarify my attitude towards a number of issues. I have intimate knowledge of how our union functions and I want to improve this so that all members feel they are part of the process after paying their 1.1%. I have learned a lot over the last two years and now I believe I have the unique experience to participate at the next level in a revitalised union led by a Members First Team .We will ensure that the classroom teacher has their needs addressed, enabling them to secure job satisfaction and have faith in the system where they are recognized for their professionalism.. |