Thousands of teachers from across the country are walking off the job for a "mega" strike, with many saying they feel undervalued.
It comes after last-minute attempts to find an agreement between unions and the Government failed.
Teachers are demanding pay rises that reflect inflation, increased student support and more recognition of their work.
It is estimated the strike will impact more than 800,000 students from kindergarten to year 13.
Speaking to AM on Wednesday, Education Minister Jan Tinetti conceded teachers' working conditions weren't "good enough".
Tinetti said she "absolutely understands these issues" adding "it's not good enough, which is why we're trying to address it".
"I've been involved in education for a long time, it has been my life's work and I absolutely appreciate what teachers do," she said. "I'm working really hard to get the best that we can for the teachers."
Also on Wednesday, National Party deputy leader Nicola Willis told AM teachers' pay should keep pace with inflation - but wouldn't commit to implementing that if her party wins October's election.
