The ANMF has applied to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) for an increase in award wages for frontline nurses, midwives, and assistants in nursing (AiNs) – by up to 35 per cent.

The Application seeks to vary the Nurses Award and is made on the basis that the work of nurses and midwives has never been properly valued. ANMF Federal Secretary, Annie Butler, said that, if successful, the Application will ensure that the recognition of work value given to nurses and AiNs in the Aged Care Work value case, will be extended to all award-covered nurses, midwives and AiNs. “It’s only fair that nurses, midwives and AiNs covered by the national award, get recognition for their demanding work, regardless of the healthcare setting,” Ms Butler said.

“We contend that award rates are set too low, stemming from the historical, gender-based undervaluation of nursing and midwifery care work. “On top of that, the nature of their work has changed dramatically in the last decades; it’s more complex and the settings in which they work, more varied.

“The training, skill and responsibility required to deliver that quality care has grown commensurately with the ever-changing demands of the healthcare system. The ANMF says it is time the work of nurses, midwives and AiNs is properly recognised and valued. This Application will instigate that change.”