NSW Nurses and Midwives have gone on strike for 24 hours and are calling for pay rises. This strike will impact elective surgeries and cause delays for some patients, but support for life-saving care is not expected to be affected. The nurses are frustrated with the government’s unwillingness to negotiate beyond their offer of a three per cent raise, despite the union finding savings to fund the pay rise. Demonstrations have taken place outside Premier Chris Minns’ office in Kogarah, Sydney, as nurses demand a 15% pay increase.
The Industrial Relations Commission president has recommended an interim deal and four weeks of intensive discussions in order to try and come to a resolution. Health Minister Ryan Park has acknowledged the dispute between the government and the association but recognizes that there is still more work to be done. The strike is part of the union’s efforts to secure a 15% pay rise over one year, a demand that Premier Chris Minns has deemed unaffordable. Despite the strike, minimal, life-preserving staff levels will be maintained in public hospitals and health services.
The action by NSW Nurses and Midwives began at 7am in what is the union’s second major stop-work action since the Labor government came into power in March 2023. The strike is part of a wider push by the union for better pay and conditions for its members. While the strike will impact some elective surgeries and patient care, significant disruptions are not expected for life-saving services. The union has criticized the state government for not coming to the table with an improved offer and for ignoring the union’s efforts to find savings to fund the pay rise.
The nurses are standing firm in their demands for a 15% pay increase, despite the government’s reluctance to meet their demands. Demonstrations outside Premier Minns’ office highlight the discontent among nurses and midwives who feel their efforts and dedication to their work are not being recognized. The government and the union are engaged in discussions to try and find a resolution to the pay dispute, with an interim deal proposed by the Industrial Relations Commission president. Health Minister Ryan Park has acknowledged the ongoing dispute and has worked to make alternative arrangements for patients affected by the strike.
Overall, the strike by NSW Nurses and Midwives is a response to the government’s refusal to meet the union’s demands for a 15% pay rise. Despite the disruption to elective surgeries and some patient care, life-saving services are expected to continue with minimal impact. The ongoing negotiations between the government and the union will determine the outcome of the pay dispute, with both parties working towards finding a resolution. The dedication and determination of the nurses and midwives to secure fair pay and conditions are evident in their actions, as they continue to advocate for their rights and the recognition of their valuable contributions to the healthcare sector.
