NSW School Cleaners Demand Change: fairness, safety, and respect

As the new school year commences in New South Wales (NSW), a chorus of voices is rising from an often overlooked group: the school cleaners. They are protesting against what they describe as unmanageable workloads, hazardous working conditions, and the pitfalls of privatization. Their plea to the NSW Government is clear - it's time to address these concerns, enhance their wages, and reconsider the outsourcing of cleaning services, a decision they argue has backfired.

A Voice from the Shadows

Pooja, a school cleaner, recently shared a video statement appealing for government intervention to tackle the unrealistic cleaning expectations. Her heartfelt plea echoes the sentiments of many in her profession, revealing the daily struggles faced by these essential workers. United Workers Union, the organization representing these cleaners, has amplified their voices, demanding action and accountability.

The Unmasking of a Failed System

The union has released a damning report that exposes the privatization of school cleaning contracts as a failed system. According to the report, private contractors have amassed over $100 million in profits under the current contracts established by the previous government. This revelation has sparked outrage, with critics arguing that these profits are being generated at the expense of cleaner's welfare and safety.

The report sheds light on the hazardous working conditions faced by cleaners, who are classified as holding one of the most dangerous jobs in the state. Despite this, they are reportedly paid as little as $24.07 per hour and are expected to complete an unreasonable number of tasks each day.

The Road to Reform

As the 30th year of cleaning contract privatization is marked, the union is submitting the report to a NSW Government review. Their aim is to spark a conversation about reform and to advocate for a system that prioritizes quality, safety, and job security for cleaners.

Linda Revill, the Property Services Coordinator for United Workers Union, emphasized the urgent need for a reformed system. "It's time for the government to end the privatization of cleaning services and create jobs that are safe, secure, and of high quality for our cleaners," she stated.

As the new school year unfolds, the spotlight is on the NSW Government to respond to these calls for change. The school cleaners of NSW, once invisible, are now demanding to be seen and heard. Their message is clear: it's time for fairness, safety, and respect in their workplaces.