From July 1, the new Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) system became available to nursing and midwifery students across Australia to assist them with much-needed financial support while undertaking their mandatory clinical training.

The NSWNMA and the ANMF were instrumental in advocating for the CPP, to help eligible students experiencing ‘placement poverty’, to manage the significant financial burden associated with completing their clinical placements, including the loss of regular income and out-of-pocket costs.

ANMF Federal Secretary Annie Butler welcomed the introduction of the CPP scheme as a ‘positive first step’ in financially supporting nursing and midwifery students but said there should be broader eligibility criteria for all students needing to access the payment.

“This financial burden has resulted in growing numbers of students failing to complete their qualifications and walking-away from the profession.

“While we welcome the start of the CPP scheme, we know we need to do more to support nursing and midwifery students through their studies to ensure they have ongoing access to quality education programs, quality clinical placements and training, and sufficient financial assistance to address the increasing challenges they face.”

Eligible students will receive $331.65 a week.

University students (Bachelor and Masters) can apply via their education provider.

For students enrolled in a Diploma of Nursing at TAFE or Registered Training Organisation (RTO), the CPP (VET) is being delivered by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

For more information on the CPP, including eligibility and the tax implications, see the NSWNMA website.