Thousands of Queensland teachers will walk off the job today for the first time in 15 years, with parents urged to keep their children at home.

The strike action by 48,000 teachers will impact all of Queensland’s 1266 state schools and 560,000 students.

The education department has assured that schools will remain open with students being safe and under supervision, while services like excursions, tuckshop, and after-school care will be determined individually by each school.

Principals were expected to inform parents about the changes in the lead-up to today’s strike.

The Queensland Teachers Union (QTU) has turned down a proposed eight percent salary increase over three years, insisting that the government tackle the teacher shortage and enhance workplace safety instead.

“Let there be no doubt, this isn’t just about teachers’ salaries – it concerns the entire community – making sure there are enough qualified individuals in our schools to teach and guide students,” stated QTU president Cresta Richardson.

“The teacher shortage crisis is real and at breaking point.”

Teachers are set to rally at 34 sites around the state, including at Brisbane’s Southbank Convention Centre, where they will gather before marching across Victoria Bridge to the state parliament.

The Queensland Council of Unions is urging parents to show their support for teachers by keeping their children at home.