Undergraduate nurse training essential for Australian women’s sexual and reproductive health
Minimal early training opportunities for nurses and midwives in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) are limiting care options for Australian women, according to new studies. A SPHERE (Centre of Research Excellence in Sexual and Reproductive Health for Women in Primary Care) study of Australian undergraduate nursing and midwifery programs in 37 universities, published found limited […]
Greater inclusion for gender and sexually diverse people in Australian blood donation rules
Australia’s blood supply and demand exists in a fragile balance, with critical shortages especially of certain blood types, being common. Australia’s blood supply is reliant on the kindness of strangers to give up their time (and blood). Nurses and midwives would be familiar with giving blood for a wide variety of reasons including but not […]
A nurse’s experience managing extreme weather challenges in remote Australia
The 2024 report Climate-Driven Extreme Weather Events: Australian Nurses’ and Midwives’ Experiences highlights the extraordinary leadership of nurses and midwives during some of Australia’s most severe climate-driven disasters.1 This three-part ANMJ series presents case studies that showcase how these incredible healthcare professionals lead responses in times of crisis, demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and compassion when their communities were at their […]
Australia records highest ever global ranking for gender equality
Australia has climbed 11 spots in the global rankings for gender equality to now sit 13th out of 148 countries, the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Gender Gap Report, released this week, has revealed. Iceland topped the rankings for the 16th year running, followed by Finland, Norway, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand. The global […]
Prac Payment is here: What nursing and midwifery students need to know
In its 2024-25 Budget, the Australian Government committed $427.4 million over four years to establish the Commonwealth Prac Payment to support higher education and VET students while undertaking mandatory placements. From 1 July, eligible domestic students will be able to access $331.65 per week. What is the Commonwealth Prac Payment? From 1 July 2025, the […]
How workforce reform may also be good for the planet
Australia’s healthcare system is undergoing scrutiny, facing calls for reform not only to improve patient care but also to address its significant environmental impact. Recent reports highlight how reforming the health workforce, particularly in primary care, could lead to better health outcomes for Australians and contribute to climate action. The “Unleashing the Potential of our […]
Aged Care Minister addresses workforce in open letter following delay of new Aged Care Act
In an open letter to the aged care workforce, new Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae, has highlighted the government’s commitment to working together with frontline aged care staff following the deferment of the start of the new Aged Care Act by four months from 1 July to 1 November. Minister Rae said […]
Endometriosis linked to premature and early menopause
Women who suffer from endometriosis have an increased risk of premature and early menopause, both naturally and surgically, University of Queensland researchers have found. A comprehensive international study found women with endometriosis are at seven times the risk of surgical menopause (involving the removal of both ovaries) and face a higher risk of premature menopause […]
National minimum wage to rise by 3.5%
Millions of Australians will get a 3.5% pay rise from 1 July, following the Fair Work Commission (FWC) annual wage review, handed down this morning. The national minimum wage will increase by: The increase will mostly benefit part-time and lower-paid workers covered by modern awards across sectors including retail, accommodation and food services, administration, and […]
‘Landmark moment’: Advance copy of RN prescribing standard released
An advance copy of the registration standard that will enable suitably qualified RNs to prescribe scheduled medicines has been released.