There are two services providing free support to nurses, midwives and students in NSW. And the good news is they could both be right for you!
Getting support – there’s no wrong door
Support services designed specifically for nurses, midwives and students are available in Australia. But which one is right for you? The good news is that they both are. And that you can choose; the right service depends on what you need right now.
Your support service options
Free and confidential, delivered by trained nurses and midwives,
these services offer you a safe space to talk.
Ongoing peer-to-peer support – Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia (NMHPA)
If you want to talk things through and receive ongoing support, NMHPA may be right for you. Their peer-to-peer counselling and health support services are
delivered by experienced nurses and midwives who understand the realities of the profession.
NMHPA is independent from employers, Ahpra and universities. They are a safe, confidential place where you can talk openly.
NMHPA are available across Australia and offer continuity; you can build a connection with the same clinician over time. Support is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (local time), face-to-face over the phone or via telehealth.
Need support right now – Nurse & Midwife Support (NMS)
If you need to speak to someone straight away, NMS provides 24/7 national phone and email support. You can remain anonymous if you choose. Their team of nurses and midwives offer confidential brief intervention and referrals. NMS can also support you during an Ahpra notification, are launching a graduate mentorship program in 2026, and offer a wellbeing portal for self-guided care.
We all need support
Nurses and midwives are used to coping. We push through double
shifts, emotional load, ethical pressure and life outside of work. We tell ourselves, “Others have it worse,” or “I’ll be fine once things calm down.” But sometimes things don’t settle and coping alone can become difficult.
Reaching out for support isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a
professional strength and part of safe practice. Just like reflection or escalation, seeking support is essential to sustaining ourselves in this profession.
Taking the first step is simple
Reaching out early can be a protective step – don’t have to wait until you’re not coping. One conversation can change things.
NMHPA | 1800 001 060 | www.nursemidwifehpa.org.au
NMS | 1800 667 877 | www.nmsupport.org.au