On International Nurses Day (IND), the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is recognising the extraordinary skill, compassion and dedication of nurses across Australia while calling for urgent action to ensure they are properly supported to continue delivering quality care for the community.
This year’s IND theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” underscores a clear message: when nurses are empowered and supported with safe working conditions, fair pay and a strong voice, patient outcomes improve and lives are saved.
From hospitals to aged care, community health to regional and remote services, nurses are the backbone of Australia’s health and aged care systems, caring for Australians when and where they need it.
“Happy International Nurses Day to all ANMF members across the country,” ANMF Federal Secretary Annie Butler said today.
“IND is the most important day for us to stop and recognise the work nurses do each and every day, but what nurses really need is sustained investment and recognition for their work.
“This year’s IND theme is clear - empowered nurses save lives. But empowerment doesn’t happen by chance. It requires investment, respect and action.”
Ms Butler said many nurses are working under higher workloads, with chronic staff shortages and increasing demand placing greater pressure on the workforce.
“This is a workforce that continues to put patients first, often at a personal cost,” she said.
“But without the right support, we risk burnout, attrition and health and aged care systems that cannot keep up with community needs.”
With the Federal Budget to be handed down tonight, the ANMF said there is a clear opportunity to match recognition with meaningful investment that empowers nurses.
“Empowering nurses is not just about supporting a workforce - it’s about protecting patients and strengthening our entire health and aged care system. In tonight’s Budget, the Government has the opportunity to back nurses with real, sustained investment.”
The ANMF is calling for:
• Immediate investment in staffing levels;
• Genuine investment and meaningful action to address workplace violence;
• Funded strategies to recruit, retain and grow the workforce;
• Cost of living relief that recognises the pressures on frontline health workers;
• Fully transparent investment in aged care tied directly to care outcomes.
Ms Butler said the Budget must deliver tangible outcomes for a workforce that is central to the nation’s health and wellbeing.
About us:
The ANMF, with over 356,000 members, is the industrial and professional voice for nurses, midwives and carers in Australia.
ANMF media release authorised by Annie Butler, ANMF Federal Secretary. 1/365 Queen St, Melbourne.
Contact details:
ANMF media inquiries: Richard Lenarduzzi 0411 254 390
