Nurses rallied outside the Mater Mental Health Centre at Waratah, outraged at the Berejiklian Government’s public sector wage freeze.

Local NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) members are devastated by the 0.3% wage rise on offer from the NSW Industrial Relations Commission and want their annual 2.5% to be honoured by the Berejiklian Government.

NSWNMA Waratah Branch Delegate, Louise Haskins, said members plan to invite the Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Health to work alongside them for an 18 hour overtime shift at the Mater Mental Health Centre.

“After relying on nurses through COVID-19, its clear the Premier does not value the work we do,” said Ms Haskins.

“It’s an insult, especially after all we have endured this year. The pandemic has presented many different challenges, rapid changes and additional training, particularly for mental health nurses.

“We have all selflessly put our own safety at risk and are now expected to do more for less? We deserve more support from this government.”