Supporting Members Through the Merit Protection Board Process

One of the core areas in which the APF provides individual support to members is in matters relating to grievances lodged with the Merit Protection Board (MPB). Our Member Support Officer, Wayne Burgess, provides outstanding support and representation for members navigating these complex and often stressful proceedings.

However, the most effective strategy is always prevention. Avoiding situations that may lead to a grievance being lodged can significantly reduce the risk of an MPB referral and the associated pressures that come with it.

To support our members in making informed and confident decisions, we will soon be publishing a series of articles developed by the MPB and distributed with their permission. These articles will offer practical guidance, explore common grievance themes, and highlight key considerations that can help members mitigate risks and avoid unnecessary escalation.

From MPB News July 2025

The Merit Protections Boards’ (MPB) services continue to be well utilised with total grievance cases in the first half of 2025 up on the same period in the previous year.

Latest data shows a marked increase in complaint grievances across these two periods, according to Boards’ registrar Greg Donaghue. (See graphs).

This led to complaint matters accounting for about a quarter of all cases dealt with by the MPB over the first two terms of this year, Mr Donaghue said. 

“It’s certainly been a busy 2025 so far and when complaints are up it can be a sign that stakeholders’ understand their roles and rights,” Mr Donaghue reflected.

“In reality, it most likely reflects busy, time-pressured operations on the ground, but it’s pleasing to note the MPB is able to provide an avenue for clarity for all parties.”

Another trend in the half-year data is a reduction in leave-related grievances, dropping in comparison to the same timeframe last year.

Mr Donaghue explained that latest temporary transfer and selection grievance matters had also reduced, following the number of cases that reached the MPB in term 4, 2024.

“This continues a trend from previous years, confirming that temporary transfer and selection issues peak in term 4 as staff and schools gear up for new roles and changed arrangements in the coming new school year,” Mr Donaghue advised.

Number of grievance types for teaching service grievances received per quarter

Grievance hearing outcomes and grievances withdrawn/conciliated for teaching service grievance per quarter