Australian Nurses Federation makes new pay offer increase of 12.5 per cent

A damaging election battle over nurses and midwives’ pay might be avoided, after the Cook Government tabled a new 12.5 per cent offer.

The Australian Nursing Federation reported the 12.5 per cent increase would result in real wage increases of more than 18 per cent for some nurses due to amended base pay rates.

“I think what we are seeing is a more serious and fairer offer being put on the table,” ANF State Secretary Romina Raschilla said.

“This wage increase and re-basing of salaries will see WA receiving a greater financial boost, helping to make WA a top-tier competitor again.”

The new offer also included a $1040 payment for staff who take on a development nursing role, agreement to “review” how mothers and babies are counted in nurse to patient ratios, plus an extra two weeks of partner leave and an expansion of weekend shift penalties to include community nurses.

The ANF is now seeking feedback from members.

In an email to ANF members, Ms Raschilla said it would be the highest average pay increase in WA history.

“After years of under investment in WA’s nursing and midwifery workforce, the ANF and Cook Government have worked together on this improved offer, taking a step forward in better valuing the efforts of ANF members,” she said.

“But of course, it will be up to ANF members to decide how we proceed.”