The Albanese Government will invest $28 million to build a new ‘world-class’ nurses and midwives academy facility at Epworth Hospital in Melbourne.
Established in 2023, the Epworth’s Brookes Academy provides innovative clinical education and training pathways to Epworth nurses and midwives aimed at advancing their skills and practice. About 800 staff have already undertaken training pathways within the academy.
The government investment will help construct a new dedicated multi-storey building equipped with the latest technology, including a Blended Learning Simulation Suite (BLISS) offering an immersive environment.
Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care and former nurse, Ged Kearney, said nurses and midwives from around Australia, including in rural and remote communities, would benefit from education and training through the academy’s advanced digital platforms.
“As a former nurse, I know the impact further study and training can have on enhancing leadership and clinical skills,” she said.
“This Academy will not only develop our nursing and midwifery workforce but also deliver improved care for all Australians across the country.”
At last week’s announcement, Ms Kearney highlighted the importance of nurses and midwives having the opportunity to upskill ahead of technological advancements, suggesting it can help prevent workforce burnout and improve retention.
“This [investment] will mean that nurses across Victoria, and indeed maybe across the country, will have access to a wonderful education facility that will offer technical advancements so that distance learning can occur, so people in rural and regional areas will be able to access the learning from the Brookes Institute.
“We know that we can’t have a robust, solid healthcare system without well-skilled nurses, midwives, doctors and allied health professionals.”
The Epworth employs about 4,000 nurses and midwives, who have access to the academy as part of their job. The academy is exploring expanding its reach, however, and also offers rural and regional partnerships.
“I think any program that is committed to upskilling our nurses and midwives is a good thing for this community. It’s a good thing for the health system, and it’s a good thing for Australians.”
