My nursing journey began as an AIN within Justice Health, where I first discovered the power of advocating for my colleagues against bullying and challenging work cultures.

Last year I completed my newgrad, and I witnessed firsthand the impact of our working conditions, from working on the floor, to the struggle our fellow nurses and midwives face on our current pay.

This experience ignited my desire to advocate for our members – it’s a commitment that remains steadfast today. Hearing the concerns of my

colleagues, witnessing their challenges and empathising with the burdens imposed by our current healthcare system on their livelihoods, has

deeply motivated me to advocate on their behalf.

Today, navigating through the wards and units of our expansive hospital has been both enriching and challenging. From brief, uplifting conversations about how excited or ready members are for action to difficult discussions about the essence of unionism and the power of our collective strength. It is a privilege to listen to my colleagues’ stories, frustrations and aspirations. These interactions have reinforced my resolve to unite our efforts towards common goals, whether advocating to support ongoing 12-hour shifts patterns, challenging the use of inotropes in ward settings to addressing staffing concerns impacting on patient safety.

I have had the opportunity to participate in training and to attend rallies, including one in front of the Ministry of Health. It was inspiring to witness passionate nurses and midwives united in voicing our collective struggles, and demanding our need for 15 per cent. We cannot live with 2024 rents and mortgages on our stagnating 2008 wages!

Members are now out on the floor. We began by wearing badges and sparking conversation about getting involved in our fight for better pay. Our solidarity defines us, and now more than ever, we stand prepared to champion better pay and conditions for our essential work.

Justin del Prado, RN, Westmead branch president