Thousands of WA public school teachers took to the streets this week, marking their first walkout in over a decade. 

The half-day strike, initiated by the State School Teachers Union of Western Australia (SSTUWA), significantly disrupted school operations across the state, leading to the full closure of 22 schools and partial closures of 62 others.

The industrial action comes after prolonged negotiations with the state government, which union leaders describe as falling short of their expectations, particularly in terms of pay and working conditions. 

The teachers' demands include a 12 per cent salary increase over two years, a proposal countered by the government's offer of an 11 per cent increase spread over three years.

Matt Jarman, President of the SSTUWA, voiced the frustrations of many at a rally in Perth's Gloucester Park.

“We've got members who cannot afford fresh fruit and vegetables, who are under-insuring their properties and their belongings. Some of our teachers are moving back home with their parents,” he said.

The union's demands are not just about pay but also about improving classroom conditions, including reducing class sizes and addressing student violence and aggression, which have significantly impacted teachers' ability to effectively educate.

“Pay is the minimum; it's the conditions, it's having less than 32 kids in a Year 8 classroom where... at least half of them have got diagnosed conditions and no support,” said Harmony Britton, a teacher at the rally.

Government responses have been varied. 

Premier Roger Cook acknowledged the teachers' right to strike and mentioned ongoing efforts to address their concerns, especially regarding support for students with special needs. 

However, Treasurer Rita Saffioti highlighted the financial constraints, saying; “We have a very generous package on the table”, which balances union demands with the state's budgetary considerations.

Union leaders have made it clear that the door remains open for further negotiations, but they have not ruled out additional strikes, including a potential full-day walkout, if their demands are not met by the May 10 deadline.