Aged care AiN Linda Hardman says she can see progress in the sector since the introduction of the federal government’s reforms.

I gave evidence to the aged care work value case, and it was a really interesting and empowering experience. The outcome means that as AINs we’ve been recognised for our professional skills, our value, and the role we play in the team.

I’m very happy with the increase in pay, which helps with the cost of living.

Albanese did come good with his election promises to improve aged care. We feel more valued, and the increase in our rate of pay takes a lot of pressure off.

We now have RNs 24/7 and knowing that we have an RN 24/7 reassures the residents and their families and also gives the staff reassurance.

There is a huge focus on nutrition now and there is more accountability. We are slowly seeing more transparency with the care minutes, so the providers have to be accountable for the number of staff on the floor, which gives staff reassurance, families reassurance and residents reassurance.

More staff on the floor means you can provide the quality of care you should be able to provide.

I think the Albanese government realises aged care is a work in progress and that they really need to listen to staff that are working on the floor. That is where we come in as union members and activists.

Once you stir up a bunch of aged care nurses, we can get very passionate. We are very passionate about the work that we do because we really care about it – that is why we are there.”