I am seeking career advancement. How do I get a classification upgrade?

The best time to commence an upgrade is at your annual performance appraisal review. Reviews should include changes and updates to your position description (PD).

If there is substantial change to your PD then an upgrade may be warranted. This would be processed by your Line Managers and ultimately go to the Local Health District Grading Committee for adjudication. Committee adjudicators include some representatives from the Association.

All upgrades do require incorporation of the Award’s minimum criteria into the PDs. Minimum criteria are relevant post registration qualifications and experience, including in the specialty field.

Position upgrades of 5 per cent or more pay increases are to be advertised. Subsequently the incumbent seeking the upgrade must apply for the advertised position in accordance with PD2023_024 Recruitment and Selection of Staff to the NSW Health Service.

Separate from the above processes are Clinical Nurse/Midwife Specialist Grade 1 classifications. These classifications are personal grades. They are an extension of the applicant’s Registered Nurse position and classification. Personal grades are subject to the Award criteria of experience and/or qualifications and being a specialist, leader and resource to the unit. The upgrading process is to apply via line management.