Victorian teachers want a 21 per cent pay rise over three years as well as smaller class sizes - but the state opposition says the government likely can't afford it.
The Australian Education Union wants an annual seven per cent pay rise over the next three years for the 60,000 teachers, support staff and principals it represents.
As well as the pay increase, the union's log of claims includes better laptops and compensation for work outside usual office hours.
Treasurer Tim Pallas says the government will deal "efficiently and properly" with the teachers union.
"There's nothing new about this. There's been some pretty substantial wage increases sought by unions," Mr Pallas told reporters on Tuesday.
The government wages policy provides for a 2.5 per cent wage increase plus 0.5 per cent for productivity improvements.
Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said the teachers' seven per cent a year pay claim would hit the budget.
"There's no guarantee the government can afford it, even if they want to pay it," Mr Guy told reporters.
Mr Guy said the government would struggle to afford the many pay agreements it would have to negotiate soon.
The union has been contacted for comment.
