KATE AITKEN

Union Organiser, Australian Education Union

Kate grew up on a farm in Wimmera and spent her early career in teaching as well as in various leadership positions in public secondary schools in Ballarat. Kate spent a year at the Department of Education, coordinating a state-wide video conferencing program for Koorie kids. After more than ten years of teaching and in union activism as a school teacher, Kate became a union organiser in 2013, supporting members and representatives in workplaces and regions. She also led the 'Put Education First' campaign which ensures that Victoria's public education system supports every student, teacher, principal, support staff and educator.