Victorian educators strike again after rejecting 28% pay offer

More than 35,000 Victorian teachers, principals and support staff struck for 24 hours on 23 July 2026 — the second mass walkout this year. They knocked back the Allan Labor government's 28% pay rise; the Australian Education Union wants 35%, pointing to a $15,000 gap with NSW and worsening staff shortages. A ban on unpaid overtime continues.