The NSW Government has made an offer in response to the NSW Nurses and Midwives request for a historic increase to night shift penalties, as well as improvements to the working conditions of nurses and midwives.
The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association will take the proposal to their 80th Annual Conference this week, followed by a vote on the offer from their members.
The offer would see night shift penalties increased to 20%, which the Government says it on par with what some of the highest paid nurses in Australia receive.
“The offer on night shift penalties and improvements to working conditions is an important step towards the long-term repair of healthcare across NSW,” said Treasurer, Daniel Mookhey.
“We now look forward to the independent umpire delivering a wages agreement for nurses and midwives, after 12 years of the Coalition’s unfair wages cap.”
Nurses and midwives will also see improvements to their working conditions and work-life balance, including:
- Two consecutive days off;
- No night shifts before annual leave unless requested;
- No changes on published roster without consultation.
Under the offer, nurses and midwives would receive a 3.5% interim pay increase (including the recent 0.5% increase to super) back paid to July 1 2025, while the Industrial Relations Commission considers the remainder of their special case for gender equity and other improvements to salaries.
“This offer is long overdue recognition for nurses and midwives who have been campaigning for a long time. We are proud to support those who care for our communities day and night,” said Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis.
“Our offer to a historic increase in night shift penalties and improved working conditions for nurses and midwives reflects our commitment to valuing frontline workers.”
