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# ANMJ

Australian Nursing & Midwifery Journal

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://anmj.org.au/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Victoria to strengthen nurse/midwife to patient ratios](https://anmj.org.au/victoria-to-strengthen-nurse-midwife-to-patient-ratios/) - The Victorian Government has announced it will introduce legislation to strengthen the state’s nurse/midwife to patient ratios, improving patient care across 26 hospitals, including in emergency departments, intensive care units, and medical and surgical wards. Premier Jacinta Allan said the Hospital Reclassification Review Bill, based on a fair and transparent review of agreed hospital data,
- [Educating students about cultural safety and trauma informed practice](https://anmj.org.au/educating-students-about-cultural-safety-and-trauma-informed-practice/) - In Australia, mental health statistics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people remains deeply disproportionate. In 2018–19, over a third of Indigenous People (37%) reported having a current mental health condition,1 with suicide remaining a devastating issue highlighted in Closing the Gap targets.2 Current data indicate that suicide rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
- [Take part in study: How mental health nurses provide care in older adult mental health public inpatient settings](https://anmj.org.au/take-part-in-study-how-mental-health-nurses-provide-care-in-older-adult-mental-health-public-inpatient-settings/) - A research team from Australian Catholic University is investigating how nurses organise and provide care within organisational conditions of older mental health inpatient settings. Patients often present with a combination of mental illness, dementia, confusion and behavioural disturbance. These wards are complex and fast-paced environments, requiring continuous decisions about what care is required, what should
- [Digital healthcare shift with smart glasses for nurses](https://anmj.org.au/digital-healthcare-shift-with-smart-glasses-for-nurses/) - Home care provider Silverchain is driving a digital healthcare shift as Australia’s first home care provider to introduce smart glasses at scale. Silverchain demonstrated how its use of smart glasses empowers nurses to detect early signs of health decline to federal policymakers at the Parliamentary Friends of Nursing event held at Parliament House this week.
- [One year on: landmark reforms helping build stronger retirement futures for women](https://anmj.org.au/one-year-on-landmark-reforms-helping-build-stronger-retirement-futures-for-women/) - One year after superannuation was added to Commonwealth Parental Leave Pay—and as the super guarantee reached 12%—new modelling shows the reforms are already helping strengthen women’s retirement outcomes. HESTA modelling based on 18 weeks of paid parental leave shows the addition of super could add around $6,500 to a woman’s retirement balance. For women who
- [Why graduate nurses are burning out](https://anmj.org.au/why-graduate-nurses-are-burning-out/) - Researchers are calling for action to support grad nurses, with burnout in the first year of practice a key driver of early workforce attrition.
- [‘We’re more than flu shots’: GP nurse says fair pay long overdue](https://anmj.org.au/were-more-than-flu-shots-gp-nurse-says-fair-pay-long-overdue/) - As the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) pursues its landmark Nurses and Midwives Work Value Case before the Fair Work Commission (FWC), general practice nurse Adama Luminous-Akazua says the push for long-overdue wage increases is about far more than money – it’s finally recognising the value and complexity of the work nurses, midwives and
- [Call for study participants: Knowledge of chronic pain management among primary care nurses](https://anmj.org.au/call-for-study-participants-knowledge-of-chronic-pain-management-among-primary-care-nurses/) - A research team from the University of Southern Queensland are investigating primary care nurses’ knowledge, confidence, challenges and support needs in chronic pain management in Australia. The findings of the project will inform the development of future educational resources and support programs for primary care nurses. Nurses currently working in primary care settings are eligibile
- [Study participants wanted: Help shape the future of perinatal mental health care](https://anmj.org.au/study-participants-wanted-help-shape-the-future-of-perinatal-mental-health-care/) - Perinatal mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, affect many new and expecting mothers, however, most women do not receive treatment for these problems due to difficulty accessing face-to-face care. Evidence-based e-treatments, have the potential to bridge this gap, yet they are not routinely offered in most healthcare settings. A research team from the
- [Shift work disrupts liver function rhythm](https://anmj.org.au/shift-work-disrupts-liver-function-rhythm/) - Shift work and irregular eating patterns could affect liver function and disrupt its delicate circadian rhythm. The timing of food intake plays a critical role in maintaining the natural rhythm of the liver to secrete proteins, University of Queensland researchers have found. “We saw that people who ate regular meals maintained healthy liver rhythms but
- [Medicare Mental Health Check In: Free digital mental health support](https://anmj.org.au/medicare-mental-health-check-in-free-digital-mental-health-support/) - Australians can now access free, confidential, high-quality mental health support online, with no referral or diagnosis needed, to help deal with life’s ups and downs. The federal government, in partnership with St Vincent’s Health Australia, has launched Medicare Mental Health Check In, a free national service providing practical support for people aged 16 and over
- [Redefining brain fog in menopause](https://anmj.org.au/redefining-brain-fog-in-menopause/) - A new clinical definition that recognises brain fog as a menopausal symptom and distinguishes it from other conditions like dementia has been proposed by Australian researchers. The neuroscientists from Monash University, the University of Melbourne and University College London are also calling for clinical studies to understand the causes of brain fog in menopause and
- [Hospital delirium a red flag for severe health decline](https://anmj.org.au/hospital-delirium-a-red-flag-for-severe-health-decline/) - A single episode of delirium in hospitalised older adults is a significant risk factor for other serious health complications including fractures, stroke and sepsis, new research shows. Delirium, often triggered by infection, surgery, pain, dehydration or medication, affects up to one in four older adults during a hospital stay. However, many of its long‑term health
- [New doco captures mission to bring back Birthing on Country](https://anmj.org.au/new-doco-captures-mission-to-bring-back-birthing-on-country/) - A powerful new documentary follows Yolŋu mothers, grandmothers, leaders and health workers as they work to bring birthing back on Country, shining a light on First Nations maternity care and self-determination. MAYPILAMA: Keel Line of Creation documents Yolŋu Elder and Professor Ḻäwurrpa Maypilama’s mission to return Birthing on Country through the Galiwin’ku Djakamirr Program. “The documentary
- [‘Beyond the Signature’: The essential moral voice of nurses in 21st Century peace activism](https://anmj.org.au/beyond-the-signature-the-essential-moral-voice-of-nurses-in-21st-century-peace-activism/) - In October 2025, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) formally launched its Nurses and Midwives for Peace campaign.1 Following the launch of this campaign, the ANMF emailed its members nationwide inviting them to add their names to an online petition calling on the Australian Government to take urgent, decisive action to protect frontline healthcare
- [Q&A: Michael Whaites, NSWNMA General Secretary](https://anmj.org.au/qa-michael-whaites-nswnma-general-secretary/) - As workforce challenges and cost-of-living issues intensify across the professions, Michael Whaites, General Secretary of the New South Wales Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA), speaks to the ANMJ about his journey and the key issues facing nurses, midwives and carers. Take us back to the beginning — what inspired you to become a nurse and
- [Meet Catelyn Richards, the nurse stepping into ANMF leadership](https://anmj.org.au/who-is-catelyn-richards-the-nurse-stepping-into-anmf-leadership/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation has a new Federal Assistant Secretary – but who is she, and what does she stand for? Registered nurse Catelyn Richards has stepped into the national leadership role with a background that spans paediatric nursing, union organising and climate advocacy. From the bedside at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital to
- [UTS to make VR violence prevention training mandatory for nursing students ](https://anmj.org.au/uts-to-make-vr-violence-prevention-training-mandatory-for-nursing-students/) - In an Australian first, the University of Technology Sydney will make immersive virtual reality training in aggression and violence prevention mandatory as part of preparation for clinical placements. From 2027, all first‑year nursing students at UTS will undertake mandatory VR training in violence-prevention before they go on placement. The decision comes amid growing concern about the frequency of violence in healthcare settings. A recent report from the NSW Nurses and
- [Grad Spotlight – Benjamin](https://anmj.org.au/grad-spotlight-benjamin/) - Benjamin Marion is a graduate registered nurse based at the Royal Hobart Hospital 1. What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing? Prior to my career as a nurse, I pursued a science degree. During that time, I found that while I enjoyed learning the science, it was not a career I could imagine
- [Why AI can never replace the human touch in nursing](https://anmj.org.au/why-ai-can-never-replace-the-human-touch-in-nursing/) - Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be highly advanced and tireless, but it will never fully replace certain jobs that require qualities beyond software capabilities, such as empathy, a human touch, or the ability to make complex decisions. At a time when jobs are being outsourced to robots, nurses cannot be replaced. This article delves into the
- [New national standards to boost virtual care safety](https://anmj.org.au/new-national-standards-to-boost-virtual-care-safety/) - National standards for virtual care are set to be developed for the first time in Australia, with the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care tasked with creating a consistent, system‑wide framework to support safe, high‑quality virtual care. The standards — expected to be published by the end of 2027 — will outline
- [When does your shift really start? The growing expectation of pre-shift tasks in nursing](https://anmj.org.au/when-does-your-shift-really-start-the-growing-expectation-of-pre-shift-tasks-in-nursing/) - In our busy healthcare environments, it is crucial that nurses are ready to start work on time. Many of us can sympathise with ‘being ready’ involving making sure we get that third cup of coffee before (or whilst) receiving handover. Whilst nurses need to be ready to start work from their start time, recent case
- [Early malnutrition screening: What nurses need to know](https://anmj.org.au/early-malnutrition-screening-what-nurses-need-to-know/) - Early, consistent use of validated screening tools — such as the Adult Nutrition Tool (ANT) and the Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST) — are essential for nurses working in remote and regional hospitals, where malnutrition risk is higher and often under‑recognised. Joint nursing and dietetic research in Central Australia has confirmed what many remote area nurses
- [ANMF launches landmark Work Value Case for nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-launches-landmark-work-value-case-for-nurses-and-midwives/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has commenced its landmark Nurses and Midwives Work Value Case before the Fair Work Commission, seeking long-overdue wage increases that better reflect the value, complexity and responsibility of nursing, midwifery and care work. The case follows the ANMF’s successful aged care work value case, which delivered minimum award
- [Trans and gender diverse healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/trans-and-gender-diverse-healthcare/) - A ban on gender-affirming hormone treatments for trans and gender diverse young people in the Queensland and Northern Territory public healthcare systems, despite this medical care not being new or experimental. Why has healthcare been taken out of the hands of healthcare professionals and their patients? In short: In January 2025, the Queensland Government banned
- [Queensland nurse recognised among top 100 female‑founded ecommerce brands](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-nurse-recognised-among-top-100-female-founded-ecommerce-brands/) - A Queensland nurse has been recognised nationally after her healthcare apparel label, Hey Sister Scrub Club, was named a Top 100 Finalist in the 2026 SHE‑com Women in Ecommerce Awards. TheThe SHE‑com Women in Ecommerce Awards celebrate Australia’s fastest‑growing community of female ecommerce brand owners, supporting women to launch, grow and scale online businesses from
- [Real-time prescription monitoring linked to drop in high-risk medication prescribing](https://anmj.org.au/real-time-prescription-monitoring-linked-to-drop-in-high-risk-medication-prescribing/) - Victoria’s prescription drug monitoring program, SafeScript, has helped significantly reduce patients being prescribed high-risk medicines such as opioids and benzodiazepines by multiple doctors, new research has found. The Monash University study, published in the Medical Journal of Australia, analysed over 6.7 million prescriptions for over 810,000 patients across 562 general practices in Victoria between 2017
- [LOCKED OUT: The housing crisis facing nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/locked-out-the-housing-crisis-facing-nurses-and-midwives/) - Nurses, midwives and carers are being priced out of the communities they work in, with rising rents, unaffordable homes and cost-of-living pressures taking a growing toll on the workforce. Robert Fedele reports. After finishing a shift at Royal Prince Alfred (RPA) Hospital, enrolled nurse Talei Williams faces a dreaded commute stretching well over an hour.
- [New guidelines for incontinence medicines for World Continence Week ](https://anmj.org.au/new-guidelines-for-incontinence-medicines-for-world-continence-week/) - Australia’s first co‑designed resources to support the safe use of urinary incontinence medicines for people living with dementia have been released to mark World Continence Week, 15–21 June. While medications to manage urinary incontinence are routinely prescribed, they carry hidden dangers for people with dementia, increasing the risk of side effects such as worsening memory loss. Despite these risks, the healthcare sector has previously
- [When menopause and night shift collide: New study seeks answers](https://anmj.org.au/when-menopause-and-night-shift-collide-new-study-seeks-answers/) - In one of the first studies of its kind, Adelaide University researchers are investigating how menopause and shift work interact, and whether women working night shifts, rotating rosters and other irregular schedules face additional health and wellbeing challenges. The study will compare women’s experiences of sleep, fatigue, health, wellbeing and workplace performance across perimenopause, menopause
- [Stretch your salary further - without working extra shifts ](https://anmj.org.au/stretch-your-salary-further-without-working-extra-shifts/) - As a nurse or midwife, you spend your time caring for others – but your income doesn’t always stretch as far as you need it to. With salary packaging for nurses, you may be able to increase your take‑home pay by paying for everyday expenses using your pre‑tax income. That means you could reduce the tax you pay and keep more
- [A member-led future for nurses and midwives in WA](https://anmj.org.au/a-member-led-future-for-nurses-and-midwives-in-wa/) - After three decades spanning corporate management, clinical nursing and health leadership, Romina Raschilla never expected to find herself at the helm of Western Australia’s largest union. But following a turbulent period that has reshaped the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation WA, Ms Raschilla now leads a sweeping rebuild focused on what she describes as getting
- [Egg allergy rates declining in Australia ](https://anmj.org.au/egg-allergy-rates-declining-in-australia/) - Australian guidelines recommending egg be introduced into a child’s diet in the first year of life have seen the number of children with egg allergy drop by 17%. When Brisbane child health nurse Sarah McKenzie meets new parents in her clinic, one question comes up again and again: “When should we start eggs?” For years, the advice was
- [Balancing Care and Burnout](https://anmj.org.au/shining-a-light-on-the-incredible-work-of-nurses-midwives-and-care-workers/) - This month, we’re celebrating International Nurses Day and International Day of the Midwife by shining a light on the incredible work of nurses, midwives and care workers in our community. One of those is ANMF and Nurses & Midwives Health member, Emmanuel. As a perianesthesia nurse, Emmanuel uses empathy to comfort patients at their
- [New stroke clinical care standard released](https://anmj.org.au/new-stroke-clinical-care-standard-released/) - The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has released an expansion of the Stroke Clinical Care Standard, with new guidance aimed to support people recovering from stroke after they leave hospital. For 46,000 people likely to have a stroke in Australia this year, the updated national standard outlines steps to equip them
- [Lived expertise and the hidden cost of disclosure in nursing research](https://anmj.org.au/lived-expertise-and-the-hidden-cost-of-disclosure-in-nursing-research/) - Diversity and inclusion are being championed across the healthcare and tertiary education sectors. The innovative problem-solving and unique insights that diverse minds bring to contemporary research and clinical practice are increasingly recognised in health and education settings. However, a gap between this rhetorical welcome and the rigid, entrenched frameworks that continue to govern scholarly spaces
- [ANMF calls for stronger parental leave and safety protections in National Employment Standards](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-calls-for-stronger-parental-leave-and-safety-protections-in-national-employment-standards/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has urged federal MPs to strengthen the National Employment Standards (NES), arguing that current provisions fail to meet the needs of a highly feminised workforce and fall short of the Fair Work Act’s objectives of job security and gender equality. ANMF representatives yesterday appeared before the House of Representatives Standing
- [Webinar: Designated registered nurse prescribing: Pathway to practice](https://anmj.org.au/webinar-designated-registered-nurse-prescribing-pathway-to-practice/) - The NMBA is hosting a webinar to help registered nurses learn more about the introducton of designated RN prescribing in Australia.
- [The Nurses and Midwives Work Value Case: why the award matters](https://anmj.org.au/the-nurses-and-midwives-work-value-case-why-the-award-matters/) - The Nurses and Midwives Work Value Case brought by the ANMF is being heard in the Fair Work Commission this week (10-16 June 2026). So, what is it — and why does this matter for you? In 2024, the ANMF’s landmark Aged Care Work Value Case delivered significant wage increases for nurses and AINs across
- [Victorian government appoints first Chief Midwife](https://anmj.org.au/victorian-government-appoints-first-chief-midwife/) - An experienced clinician with a background spanning hospital services and Safer Care Victoria, the state’s peak healthcare quality and safety improvement agency, has been appointed Victoria’s first Chief Midwife. Elisa McDonald, who has previously worked as Senior Maternity Adviser, Safer Care Victoria, and as a midwife at Western Health, is regarded as a true advocate
- [New infusion rate calculator launches in Australian Injectable Drugs Handbook](https://anmj.org.au/new-infusion-rate-calculator-launches-in-australian-injectable-drugs-handbook/) - Nurses and midwives are invited to attend a national webinar next month to explore latest updates to the 10th edition of the Australian Injectable Drugs Handbook which officially launches on 1 July 2026. The 10th edition of the Australian Injectable Drugs Handbook (AIDH10) introduces a redesigned digital app featuring a new Infusion Rate Calculator, developed
- [South Pacific Nurses Forum 2026](https://anmj.org.au/south-pacific-nurses-forum-2026/) - Join us online for the South Pacific Nurses Forum (SPNF) conference Strengthening National Nursing Associations to Support Our Members: Amplifying Pacific Voices, on 3 July 2026. The 2026 SPNF one-day forum will feature keynote presentations and sessions hosted by national nursing association leaders from across the South Pacific. Topics will include workforce development, retention and working
- [World Environment Day 2026: A global call for climate action](https://anmj.org.au/world-environment-day-2026-a-global-call-for-climate-action/) - World Environment Day 2026 focuses on climate change—on the urgent signals the Earth is sending and the signals we choose to send back. World Environment Day 2026 calls on governments, cities, businesses, and people everywhere to move in one direction: read the signals around you—and send one back. The planet doesn’t argue. It doesn’t negotiate. It
- [ANMF says minimum wage rise a ‘step in the right direction’ for low-paid care workers](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-says-minimum-wage-rise-a-step-in-the-right-direction-for-low-paid-care-workers/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) says today’s decision by the Fair Work Commission (‘FWC’) to lift national minimum wages by 4.75% will help boost the pay of frontline care workers. While disappointed the FWC did not meet the ACTU’s claim of a 6% rise, ANMF Federal Secretary Annie Butler said the increase would
- [Standing beside the ANZACs: Nurses and the hidden costs of war](https://anmj.org.au/standing-beside-the-anzacs-nurses-and-the-hidden-costs-of-war/) - On Saturday 25 April 2026, Australia will mark the 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings and commemorate all those who have served in times of war and peace. ANZAC Day invites us to reflect on the immense sacrifices made in service to the nation, often at profound personal cost. In the years following Gallipoli and
- [Q&A with Immunisation Nurse Practitioner, Sonja Elia](https://anmj.org.au/qa-with-immunisation-nurse-practitioner-sonja-elia/) - Nurse Practitioner Sonja Elia, who works in immunisation at Austin Health, talks about her career and specialty.
- [Midwife helps pregnant women experiencing homelessness find a place to call home](https://anmj.org.au/midwife-helps-pregnant-women-experiencing-homelessness-find-a-place-to-call-home/) - For women experiencing homelessness, pregnancy can be an overwhelming time filled with uncertainty and isolation. That’s where The Cornelia Program steps in – a partnership between the Royal Women’s Hospital, HousingFirst and Launch Housing. The program offers a supportive pathway to safety and stability, providing secure accommodation, specialist maternity and neonatal care, and access to
- [Winners of 2026 HESTA Australian Nursing and Midwifery Awards revealed](https://anmj.org.au/winners-of-2026-hesta-australian-nursing-and-midwifery-awards-revealed/) - A nurse from the Northern Territory alongside a midwife and an organisation from New South Wales were crowned the three major winners of the HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards in Melbourne last night. Now in its 20th year, the awards honour the vital contributions of Australia’s nurses, midwives, nurse educators, researchers, and personal care
- [New nurse-led resource for Multiple Sclerosis: Back on Track ](https://anmj.org.au/new-nurse-led-resource-for-multiple-sclerosis-back-on-track/) - A new nurse‑led resource series designed to empower and guide people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has been launched, offering practical support at every stage of the MS journey. MS Australia and MS Nurses Australasia have released Back on Track ahead of World MS Day tomorrow (30 May), with this year’s global campaign again centred on the theme ‘My MS Diagnosis: Navigating MS Together.’ Developed
- [Major new nursing and midwifery research partnership](https://anmj.org.au/major-new-nursing-and-midwifery-research-partnership/) - A new Melbourne-based nursing and midwifery research partnership will embed research in clinical practice and strengthen leadership pathways. The Nursing Research Academic Partnership brings together La Trobe University, The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), the Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) and the Royal Women’s Hospital (RWH). The collaboration is driven by a shared ambition to build nursing
- [The Sugar Nurse: HESTA 2026 Nurse of the Year](https://anmj.org.au/the-sugar-nurse-hesta-2026-nurse-of-the-year/) - Northern Territory diabetes educator Helen Lamech has been named Australia’s Nurse of the Year, recognised for transforming diabetes care across Central Australia through a community‑led model that now supports more than 100 families. With more than 30 years of nursing experience in the NT — including the past decade as a diabetes educator — Ms Lamech has
- [ANMF welcomes major Budget tax reforms to support nurses, midwives and carers](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-welcomes-major-budget-tax-reforms-to-support-nurses-midwives-and-carers/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) says major Budget tax reforms focused on increasing fairness will support the next generation of nurses, midwives and carers, struggling to find secure, affordable housing and meet current costs of living. ANMF Federal Secretary, Annie Butler, said changes to the tax system, including new restrictions on negative gearing
- [Healthcare workers urged to wear respirators](https://anmj.org.au/healthcare-workers-urged-to-wear-respirators/) - Frontline healthcare workers have been urged to wear P2 face respirators if they are concerned about the risk of hantavirus infection. With Australian passengers of the affected cruise ship due to return home, initially to quarantine in Perth, University of the Sunshine Coast microbiology and infection prevention/control experts have urged vigilance for healthcare professionals at
- [Strengthening Nurses and Midwives’ Response to Domestic and Family Violence](https://anmj.org.au/strengthening-nurses-and-midwives-response-to-domestic-and-family-violence/) - Domestic and family violence is a health issue. Domestic and family violence (DFV) is not only a social issue. It is a significant public health concern. In Australia, DFV is a leading contributor to illness, injury and psychological distress, particularly for women. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 1 in 4 women
- [Western Australia launches first RN prescribing course ](https://anmj.org.au/western-australia-launches-first-rn-prescribing-course/) - Western Australia has taken a landmark step in strengthening its healthcare workforce, launching the state’s first Registered Nurse (RN) prescribing course on International Nurses’ Day. Edith Cowan University (ECU) will deliver the fully online, one‑year program, designed to equip experienced registered nurses with the skills and knowledge to prescribe or renew medications in partnership with authorised independent prescribers such as doctors
- [Federal Budget: What nurses, midwives and care workers need to know](https://anmj.org.au/federal-budget-what-nurses-midwives-and-care-workers-need-to-know/) - Every year before the Federal Budget, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) sends a Pre-Budget Submission to the Australian Government. It may sound like a policy process happening far away in Canberra, but it plays an important role in shaping the funding and policies that affect your job, your patients and the health system
- [National Palliative Care Week: Complex patients achieving wish to die at home](https://anmj.org.au/national-palliative-care-week-complex-patients-achieving-wish-to-die-at-home/) - People with complex health conditions are fulfilling their preference to die at home when they have access to specialist community palliative care, challenging assumptions that hospital care is inevitable. Released for National Palliative Care Week (10–16 May), the new research questions Australia’s hospital‑first approach for people with the most complex palliative care needs. “When hospital is
- [Palliative care patient outcomes in Australia have improved in the last 10 years](https://anmj.org.au/palliative-care-patient-outcomes-in-australia-have-improved-in-the-last-10-years/) - Palliative care supports people living with a life-limiting illness to have the best possible quality of life.1 This means providing: relief from distressing symptoms, support to make informed decisions, and care that aligns with what matters most to the person.1 In Australia, the Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration (PCOC — uow.edu.au/PCOC) supports palliative care nurses to
- [Global conflict’s impact at home](https://anmj.org.au/global-conflicts-impact-at-home/) - A new Australian Human Rights Commission report reveals the devastating domestic impact of the war in Gaza on Australia’s Jewish, Muslim, Palestinian, Arab and Israeli communities. The Struggle to Be Seen, the Power in Being Heard is the most comprehensive account of its kind since the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and Israel’s
- [Emergency nurses call for urgent action on workplace violence](https://anmj.org.au/emergency-nurses-call-for-urgent-action-on-workplace-violence/) - An alleged violent assault at Sydney’s Prince of Wales Hospital has reignited alarm over escalating risks facing nurses, with the College of Emergency Nursing Australasia (CENA) warning the incident reflects a national crisis. The incident occurred in the emergency department last Saturday night at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick. A 51‑year‑old man presenting
- [ANMF tells inquiry some shift-working nurses denied extra week of annual leave due to complex criteria](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-tells-inquiry-some-shift-working-nurses-denied-extra-week-of-annual-leave-due-to-complex-criteria/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has told a federal inquiry examining whether the National Employment Standards (NES) are fit for purpose that the current criteria employees must meet to be considered a shift worker is too narrow, meaning many nurses working irregular hours, such as night shifts, are missing out on an extra
- [In-home aged care showers now free again as Labor unveils $3 billion funding package](https://anmj.org.au/in-home-aged-care-showers-now-free-again-as-labor-unveils-3-billion-funding-package/) - In-home aged care clients will no longer pay for essential services such as showers, continence management and wound dressing thanks to a $3 billion funding package unveiled yesterday in the lead-up to May’s 2026 Federal Budget. Speaking at the National Press Club in Canberra, Health Minister Mark Butler said the government was responding to widespread
- [Top time-management tips for new grads](https://anmj.org.au/top-time-management-tips-for-new-grads/) - Effective time management for new grads involves planning, prioritisation, task clustering, and developing routines that work for you. Here are some key tips to reduce your stress and nail down your time management. Pre-Shift Preparation You may have heard your clinical facilitator say: ‘if you’re on time, you’re late’. Arrive 10-15 minutes early for your shift.
- [Don't forget: Renew your registration before deadline](https://anmj.org.au/dont-forget-renew-your-registration-before-deadline/) - All nurses and midwives have until 31 May to renew their general or non-practising registration to avoid any delays or late fees. You should have already received an email from Ahpra reminding you to register via your online portal. The 2026-27 fee for general registration is $193, or $189 for NSW-based nurses. Late renewal incurs
- [How nurse-led telehealth is keeping patients out of hospital](https://anmj.org.au/how-nurse-led-telehealth-is-keeping-patients-out-of-hospital/) - At Grampians Health in rural Victoria, a nurse-led telehealth service is cutting repeat ED presentations among patients with complex and chronic conditions by around 30%, with research demonstrating a 33% reduction in re-presentations. As manager of Hospital Without Walls, registered nurse William Ho oversees a suite of programs designed to deliver care beyond the traditional
- [Ahpra begins adding sexual misconduct findings to health practitioners’ public records](https://anmj.org.au/ahpra-begins-adding-sexual-misconduct-findings-to-health-practitioners-public-records/) - More than 100 health practitioners, including 21 nurses and midwives, have had findings of sexual misconduct against them recorded on the public register, following reforms by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) aimed at helping patients make more informed decisions about their care. Under landmark changes to the National Law, Ahpra has begun adding
- [Syphilis: Not a disease of the past](https://anmj.org.au/syphilis-not-a-disease-of-the-past/) - Syphilis might sound like a condition from the history books, but it remains a very real public health issue – and one that deserves the attention of every nurse, midwife and care worker. In August 2025, Australia’s Chief Medical Officer declared syphilis a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance (CDINS).1 This designation is reserved for
- [NSW nurses and midwives win pay rise, but warn it ‘doesn’t go far enough’](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-nurses-and-midwives-win-pay-rise-but-warn-it-doesnt-go-far-enough/) - NSW nurses and midwives will receive ‘record-breaking’ pay rises after the Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) found their work has been historically undervalued, particularly due to gender-based inequity. But the New South Wales Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA), who pursued the case, says the increase for registered nurses and midwives isn’t enough to ease cost-of-living pressures
- [World War II nurses commemorated in regional Victoria](https://anmj.org.au/world-war-ii-nurses-commemorated-in-regional-victoria/) - Two Australian war nurses have been permanently commemorated in their local Victorian shire ahead of ANZAC Day, with the unveiling of bronze busts honouring their service and sacrifice during World War II. Bronze busts of Oxley Shire nurses Sister Dorothy ‘Bud’ Elmes and Sister Caroline ‘Carrie’ Ennis were officially unveiled on 28 March 2026 at
- [Eating right for your workday, or night](https://anmj.org.au/eating-right-for-your-workday-or-night/) - The team at Nurses & Midwives Health shares expert advice on fuelling up for your next shift. Health insurance can be more than a safety net; it can support your everyday health and wellbeing. At Nurses & Midwives Health, this includes sharing small, achievable steps to help you take care of you. Like eating for
- [Make health your 2026 habit ](https://anmj.org.au/make-health-your-2026-habit/) - As 2025 ends, you may find yourself reviewing your year. Are there things you might have done differently? Have you developed habits that don’t serve you well? If you’d like to set new intentions for 2026 and replace old habits, the Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia (NMHPA) can help. If you’re not familiar with NMHPA,
- [Enhanced role for midwives in postnatal contraceptive care](https://anmj.org.au/enhanced-role-for-midwives-in-postnatal-contraceptive-care/) - Australian midwives may be open to delivering contraceptive care during postnatal home visits, new research shows. This could include innovations such as home insertion of the contraceptive implant (Implanon NXT), which has been trialled internationally, although has not yet been explored in Australia. New research from Monash University’s SPHERE Centre of Research Excellence shows home
- [Nurses and midwives urged to sign petition to protect healthcare workers in conflict zones ](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-urged-to-sign-petition-to-protect-healthcare-workers-in-conflict-zones/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has launched a new petition calling on the Australian Government to take stronger action to protect healthcare workers in war zones, where they are increasingly under attack. The petition is the latest step in the ANMF’s Nurses and Midwives for Peace campaign to stand in solidarity with nurses,
- [Tips for your new grad interview](https://anmj.org.au/tips-for-your-new-grad-interview/) - NSW Nurses and Midwives Association (NSWNMA) President O’Bray Smith shares some tips for final year nursing and midwifery students in preparation for their new grad interviews. A common mistake that people make when they sit their new grad interview is thinking that we are looking for someone who can diagnose, or an advanced practitioner, and
- [Finalists announced for 20th year of HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery awards](https://anmj.org.au/finalists-announced-for-20th-year-of-hesta-australian-nursing-midwifery-awards/) - Nine finalists have been announced in a milestone year for the 2026 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards. A Victoria-based midwife ensuring Aboriginal families receive culturally safe support from pregnancy through to postnatal care and a South Australian nurse who has improved outcomes for children and families experiencing adversity are finalists in this year’s awards.
- [Fuel crisis driving nurses to call in sick, as soaring costs outweigh travel allowance](https://anmj.org.au/fuel-crisis-driving-nurses-to-call-in-sick-as-soaring-costs-outweigh-travel-allowance/) - Rising fuel costs are forcing some nurses who use their own cars for travel on the job to call in sick, according to a district nurse, who says it has become a choice between staying home or working and being left out of pocket. In a typical week, Victorian district nurse Lachlan Timms covers around
- [ANMF calls for National Employment Standards (NES) reform, including 10 days paid reproductive leave](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-calls-for-national-employment-standards-nes-reform-including-10-days-paid-reproductive-leave/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is calling for major improvements to the National Employment Standards (NES), including 10 days paid reproductive health leave and an expanded definition of shift workers to ensure more employees working irregular hours are fairly compensated. A federal parliamentary inquiry into the NES, which sets the minimum employment entitlements
- [Former nurse who faked certificates to hide lapsed registration faces hefty fines](https://anmj.org.au/former-nurse-faked-certificates-to-hide-lapsed-registration-faces-hefty-fines/) - A Queensland woman who worked as a nurse without registration has been fined $10,000 and ordered to pay $1,750 in legal costs. The former nurse forged two registration certificates to conceal the fact that she was unregistered while continuing to work at a Bundaberg medical centre. Janette Slater had previously been registered as a nurse,
- [Telehealth restriction remains major barrier to voluntary assisted dying (VAD), report finds](https://anmj.org.au/telehealth-restriction-remains-major-barrier-to-voluntary-assisted-dying-vad-report-finds/) - Australia’s voluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws are working as intended – easing suffering and giving terminally ill people choice and control over the timing and circumstances of their death – but persistent barriers continue to limit access, a new national report has found. Go Gentle Australia’s 2026 State of VAD report examines how VAD is
- [Social, health, and wellbeing challenges facing older nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/social-health-and-wellbeing-challenges-facing-older-nurses-and-midwives/) - The global nursing and midwifery workforce is undergoing a profound demographic shift, with an increasing proportion approaching retirement age.1 This trend is pronounced in high-income countries like Australia, where an ageing population is simultaneously increasing demand for healthcare.2 In Australia, 38% of nurses and midwives are over the age of 45 years.3 Older nurses and
- [Hands-on PIVC training can better prepare nursing and midwifery students](https://anmj.org.au/hands-on-pivc-training-can-better-prepare-nursing-and-midwifery-student/) - Clinical placements with hospital-based vascular access services can help dual undergraduate nursing and midwifery students build confidence and skills in peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion, a new study has found. About 70% of hospital admissions require a PIVC and there is a shortage of skilled inserters. In Australia, nursing and midwifery undergraduate programs teach PIVC
- [Do Australian children have equal access to school nurses?](https://anmj.org.au/do-australian-children-have-equal-access-to-school-nurses/) - A new study has highlighted the need for a national approach to school nursing, with Australian students receive varying levels of support depending on their school and location. Edith Cowan University (ECU) researchers mapped the scope of nursing work and models of delivery in Australian primary and secondary schools. In a time where Australian children
- [Specialist lung cancer nurses critical to national screening program success](https://anmj.org.au/specialist-lung-cancer-nurses-critical-to-national-screening-program-success/) - Australia’s new National Lung Cancer Screening Program risks falling short of its full potential unless urgent investment is made to fix critical gaps in services, including providing universal access to lung cancer specialist nurses, according to a new Curtin University study. The paper warns that while the July 2025 launch of the national screening program
- [Bringing healthcare to the frontline of crisis accommodation](https://anmj.org.au/bringing-healthcare-to-the-frontline-of-crisis-accommodation/) - Survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence living in crisis accommodation in South Eastern New South Wales now have greater access to healthcare through a new partnership initiative. A two-year pilot program funded by the federal government will embed primary healthcare services directly into crisis accommodation settings. The aim is to make it easier for
- [Frailty – supporting better outcomes](https://anmj.org.au/frailty-supporting-better-outcomes/) - Frailty is a common, yet often under-recognised, condition in older people. It is estimated that at least 11% of community dwelling older Australians, and up to 75% of residents in aged care homes are living with frailty. Frailty is an independent predictor of poor health outcomes, however it can be slowed and even reversed in
- [Protecting Skin Integrity in Continence Care](https://anmj.org.au/protecting-skin-integrity-in-continence-care/) - One in four people with incontinence do nothing to prevent skin issues, and one in three never seek medical care for dermatitis. Clinicians are therefore the critical touchpoint for prevention, education, and product selection (Dynata-Ontex, 2025) Maintaining skin integrity is one of the most important pressing clinical challenges in continence care. Prolonged exposure to moisture,
- [How to improve your financial wellbeing](https://anmj.org.au/how-to-improve-your-financial-wellbeing/) - Due to high interest rates and the impacts of inflation, many of us are feeling the pinch right now, so here are some tips to help you feel more in control of your money, even in difficult economic times. But first: what exactly is financial wellbeing? According to Beyond Blue, financial wellbeing is about having
- [A new voice for nursing](https://anmj.org.au/a-new-voice-for-nursing/) - The Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH) has welcomed a new nursing representative to its Editorial Advisory Committee, stepping into the role previously held by long-serving member Dr Helen Calabretto – a move that reflects AMH’s continuing support for the evolving needs of nurses. For nearly 30 years, the Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH) has been an important
- [University of Tasmania empowers nurses with Australia’s most flexible postgraduate nursing program](https://anmj.org.au/university-of-tasmania-empowers-nurses-with-australias-most-flexible-postgraduate-nursing-program/) - The University of Tasmania has officially launched its redesigned Advanced Nursing postgraduate program, a bold step forward in preparing nurses for leadership, expanded clinical roles, and interdisciplinary collaboration across Australia’s healthcare system. With more than 20 specialisations, including the newly added Palliative Care, the program offers unmatched flexibility and depth. Each specialisation is taught by expert
- [Supporting women through life’s moments](https://anmj.org.au/supporting-women-through-lifes-moments/) - From career breaks to new beginnings, HESTA is here to help keep your super on track through each chapter. Women’s careers don’t always follow a traditional path. Families can grow, priorities can shift, and paid work can be reduced or put on pause. But that doesn’t mean your financial future should suffer. Start by truly
- [Federal Budget action urged as energy costs squeeze households](https://anmj.org.au/federal-budget-action-urged-as-energy-costs-squeeze-households/) - Advocates from across the country converged on Parliament House last week in a national mobilisation to highlight key priorities ahead of the Federal Budget in May. The campaign is responding to growing cost-of-living pressures, particularly rising household energy bills driven by energy market volatility and corporate profiteering, which are leaving many Australians struggling to maintain
- [Monash researchers launch tool to curb medication harm in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/monash-researchers-launch-tool-to-curb-medication-harm-in-aged-care/) - The first national consensus list of high-risk medicines in Australian residential aged care has been developed, along with a tool for clinicians to help reduce preventable harm. Monash University researchers, together with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals and medication safety experts, have identified 15 high-risk medications or medication classes that require specialised monitoring in
- [New McGrath model of care strengthens equity of Australian cancer care](https://anmj.org.au/new-mcgrath-model-of-care-strengthens-equity-of-australian-cancer-care/) - The McGrath Foundation recently announced the launch of the McGrath Model of Care reflecting its increased scope of care for all cancers as of January 2025. Designed to strengthen and standardise cancer nursing across Australia, the McGrath Foundation’s new McGrath Model of Care expands beyond breast cancer care to support people and their families experiencing
- [New smart dressing could heal and monitor wounds](https://anmj.org.au/new-smart-bandage-could-heal-and-monitor-wounds/) - Australian researchers have unlocked the possibility of creating smart wound dressings that enable real-time monitoring while also delivering healing agents. Chronic wounds cause significant burdens on healthcare systems due to the complexities of continuous and changing care required. Smart wound dressings that monitor infection or deliver healing therapeutics have emerged as a solution, but combining both monitoring and healing
- [Unions call for lower limits for 9 toxic chemicals](https://anmj.org.au/unions-call-for-lower-limits-for-9-toxic-chemicals/) - Unions, including the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), are calling on Work Health and Safety Ministers to strengthen protections for workers – including nurses – by lowering the exposure limits for nine “cancer-causing” toxic chemicals. The ANMF, together with the ACTU and other public health organisations, sent a joint letter urging WHS Ministers to
- [VR training helps nursing students manage aggressive patients](https://anmj.org.au/vr-training-helps-nursing-students-manage-aggressive-patients/) - Nursing students are gaining confidence in managing aggressive patients thanks to innovative virtual reality (VR) training, new research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) has found. The program, known as I-VADE, allows clinicians and students to practice de-escalation strategies in realistic, fully immersive scenarios before they encounter them on the clinical floor. Participants navigate a simulated
- [‘Don’t be afraid’: A New Zealand RN prescriber shares what Australia can expect](https://anmj.org.au/dont-be-afraid-a-new-zealand-rn-prescriber-shares-what-australia-can-expect/) - As Australia shifts into designated registered nurse prescribing, many nurses are asking what it will look like in practice and whether the extra risk and responsibility is worth it. New Zealand RN community health prescriber Claire Stewart believes the benefits are clear. “Don’t be frightened,” she says. “Think about the positives. How this will enhance
- [Hitting the ceiling: When “Top of Scope” meets governance reality](https://anmj.org.au/hitting-the-ceiling-when-top-of-scope-meets-governance-reality/) - “Nurses working to top of scope” – it is a phrase frequently invoked by nursing executives to describe the future of the profession — one associated with empowerment, innovation, and improved care delivery. Yet for many Nurse Practitioners (NPs) working in public health settings, “top of scope” functions less as an enacted organisational commitment than
- [Growing rates of violence against nurses, midwives and carers: NSW report](https://anmj.org.au/growing-rates-of-violence-against-nurses-midwives-and-carers-nsw-report/) - Occupational violence towards nurses and midwives has surged in the last six years, according to a report released by the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA). The ‘Occupational Violence: has no place in my workplace’ report uncovered startling findings, highlighting the prevalence of violence and aggression among nurses, midwives and carers in their workplaces. The
- [Grad year playbook ](https://anmj.org.au/grad-year-playbook/) - Your graduate year is underway and there’s a lot to learn. Expect moments of overwhelm, but also real rewards. These ideas can help you survive – and even thrive. Eat, talk, move – set your foundations Eating well, moving regularly and talking things through can help you stay grounded in your grad year. Eat well We all know eating well helps with energy – but doing it when you’re tired, stressed and
- [First intake of RN prescribers begins](https://anmj.org.au/first-intake-of-rn-prescribers-begins/) - The first cohort of registered nurses undertaking newly accredited RN prescribing courses commences next week. La Trobe University Course Coordinator for the Graduate Certificate in RN Prescribing, Corinne Dunningham, spoke with the ANMJ about the landmark change. Hailed as one of the most significant shifts in nursing regulation in two decades, RN prescribing aims to
- [West Africa to host landmark international conference](https://anmj.org.au/west-africa-to-host-landmark-international-conference/) - The inaugural CNMF West Africa Regional Conference will take place in Abuja, Nigeria, from 21–23 April 2026. Co-hosted with the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), this landmark event will provide a vital platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing across the region. Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Sierra Leone are the four West
- [Clinicians gain easier access to Don’t Rush to Crush and new obesity medicines guide](https://anmj.org.au/clinicians-gain-easier-access-to-dont-rush-to-crush-and-new-obesity-medicines-guide/) - Key clinical resources, including an Australian-first guide to support patients living with obesity, are set to become more accessible for Australian healthcare professionals. Australia’s leading digital healthcare publisher, Therapeutic Guidelines, and Advanced Pharmacy Australia have partnered to promote the quality use of medicines by increasing access to trusted, evidenced-based clinical resources that support decision-making at
- [Simple test could speed up endometriosis diagnosis](https://anmj.org.au/simple-test-could-speed-up-endometriosis-diagnosis/) - A simple 5-minute test addressing major endometriosis diagnostic delays and treatment has been developed by University of Queensland researchers. The Simplified Adolescent Factors for Endometriosis (SAFE) score uses a questionnaire to identify at-risk patients and fast track specialist referrals for further investigation. Professor Gita Mishra AO, Centre Director of UQ’s Australian Women and Girls’ Health
- [BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness launches in Melbourne](https://anmj.org.au/body-worlds-the-anatomy-of-happiness-launches-in-melbourne/) - After captivating almost 140,000 visitors during its run in Brisbane and Perth, the world-renowned exhibition BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness is heading to Melbourne’s District Docklands for a limited time this March. Developed by Dr Gunther von Hagens, inventor of Plastination, and curated by physician and designer Dr Angelina Whalley, BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness
- [Birthing on Country model delivers better birth outcomes](https://anmj.org.au/birthing-on-country-model-delivers-better-birth-outcomes/) - New research shows better outcomes with Birthing on Country compared to mainstream maternity services for First Nations families. First Nations women had significantly more normal vaginal births, were more likely to be exclusively breastfeeding upon hospital discharge and had greater engagement with culturally safe wellbeing programs. The study, led by Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) Molly Wardaguga Institute for First Nations Birth Rights and Waminda South Coast Women’s Health and Wellbeing
- [Are we paying attention to Neurodiversity?](https://anmj.org.au/are-we-paying-attention-to-neurodiversity/) - Neurodiversity has received growing attention in recent years, and yet its presentation in the nursing and midwifery workforce has received limited attention. Given our professional pride in caring, connection, and empathy, there may be some denial that neurodivergence even exists in nursing, but this reflects the broader cultural misunderstanding of its many and varied experiences.
- [Time poor? Does this increase your risk of dementia?](https://anmj.org.au/time-poverty-a-social-determinant-of-health/) - Time has been identified as an under-recognised social determinant of brain health, potentially as important as education and income. Time – or the lack of it – could be a missing link in dementia prevention, according to research from UNSW Sydney’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA). Temporal inequity – the unequal distribution of time
- [Financial toxicity adds to stress of breast cancer diagnosis](https://anmj.org.au/financial-toxicity-adds-to-stress-of-breast-cancer-diagnosis/) - Working-age Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer collectively lose an average of 1.5 years of full-time work for every person diagnosed, costing billions in wages and gross domestic product. Rising rates of breast cancer among working-age Australian women have prompted urgent calls for action to address the growing impact of financial toxicity. Financial toxicity describes the negative
- [RN prescribing closer as Senate Committee endorses PBS reform](https://anmj.org.au/rn-prescribing-closer-as-senate-committee-endorses-pbs-reform/) - A Senate legislative committee has backed a Bill that would allow designated RN prescribers to prescribe certain medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee has recommended the passage of the Health Legislation Amendment (Prescribing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Bill 2025. The Bill formally recognises authorised nurse prescribers as a new
- [Student nurses and midwives share top study tips](https://anmj.org.au/student-nurses-and-midwives-share-top-study-tips/) - Beginning your nursing or midwifery studies often comes with a steep learning curve. Drawing on insights shared by students from the ANMJ’s Spotlight series, students share their top study tips. Study together Stay on top of it! It is so easy to put off watching lectures and content, but if you stay on top of
- [Mentoring helps novice theatre nurses build confidence and stay in the job](https://anmj.org.au/mentoring-helps-novice-theatre-nurses-build-confidence-and-stay-in-the-job/) - A structured education and mentoring program boosted the confidence and skills of novice perioperative nurses, while also improving workplace culture and staff retention, new Australian research shows. The case study, published in the Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN), involved 20 novice nurses undertaking a three-month rotation across 14 perioperative speciality areas with support from
- [SA nurses secure interim wage rise, call off industrial action](https://anmj.org.au/sa-nurses-secure-interim-wage-rise-call-off-industrial-action/) - After months of negotiations with the state government, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (SA Branch) has won a 6% interim administrative wage increase, with planned industrial action suspended while Enterprise Agreement talks continue. The ANMF (SA Branch) has been fighting for fairer wages and improved conditions across the public sector. An offer of 10.75%
- [New tool to help health professionals improve medication management](https://anmj.org.au/new-tool-to-help-health-professionals-improve-medication-management/) - Researchers have released a new guide on how to establish and lead a quality improvement collaborative (QIC) to support senior healthcare professionals, managers and leaders across healthcare settings who are seeking to improve medication management practices. A QIC uses an evidenced based approach to bring healthcare professionals together from different sites to learn, share and
- [Critical antibiotic resistance jumps 25%](https://anmj.org.au/critical-antibiotic-resistance-jumps-25/) - Critical antibiotic resistance in Australia increased by 25% in 2024 and less than half the antibiotics given after surgeries were appropriate, according to the latest antimicrobial use and resistance in human health (AURA) report. Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines, making infections difficult – and sometimes
- [ANMF appoints Catelyn Richards new Federal Assistant Secretary](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-appoints-catelyn-richards-new-federal-assistant-secretary/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation’s Federal Executive (ANMF) has appointed Catelyn Richards as its new Federal Assistant Secretary, marking a significant step in strengthening national leadership of the country’s largest union. Ms Richards is a Registered Nurse who commenced her career in paediatrics at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. She has extensive experience
- [ANMF PRIORITIES 2026: Aged care reform](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-priorities-2026-aged-care-reform/) - Over recent years, nurses, midwives and care workers have helped drive significant reforms made to healthcare and the professions they work in. This has included advances in gender equity; industrial relations reforms including wage increases through the Aged Care Work Value Case, stronger delegate rights; and long-awaited improvements in aged care with 24/7 registered nurse
- [Straight from the wards: Grad nurses and midwives share their top tips](https://anmj.org.au/straight-from-the-wards-grad-nurses-and-midwives-share-their-top-tips/) - Starting out as a graduate nurse or midwife can be exciting, overwhelming and everything in between. Drawing on insights shared in the ANMJ’s Grad Spotlight series, recent graduates reflect on what helped them find their feet – and the advice they’d pass on to those just starting out. Ask, learn and lean in “My advice
- [Back to Bangka: One woman’s journey to uncover the truth](https://anmj.org.au/back-to-bangka-one-womans-journey-to-uncover-the-truth/) - Australian Army nurse Bud Elmes was excited, describing “the opportunity of a lifetime” being in Malaya, to her friends and family back home – only months before her brutal death in the waters off Radji Beach during WWII in one of the worst wartime massacres in history. Melbourne writer Georgina Banks’ search for the truth
- [‘We need to talk about productivity’: ANMF 17th National Biennial Conference round-up](https://anmj.org.au/we-need-to-talk-about-productivity-anmf-17th-national-biennial-conference-round-up/) - More than a hundred delegates gathered on the Gold Coast to help shape the ANMF's focus and action for the next two years.
- [New solution for moderate to severe sleep apnoea](https://anmj.org.au/new-solution-for-moderate-to-severe-sleep-apnoea/) - A new, less invasive electrical stimulation technique has been found to improve breathing in people with sleep apnoea. A new study by researchers and clinicians at Flinders University has demonstrated the potential of a minimally invasive surgical technique to improve outcomes for people with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) who are unable to tolerate CPAP therapy.
- [Deal reached to save Healthscope](https://anmj.org.au/deal-reached-to-save-healthscope/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has welcomed an announcement from McGrathNicol that the sale of privately-owned hospital group owner Healthscope has been resolved. ANMF Federal Secretary Annie Butler said it was good to finally have an outcome of the sale process for ANMF members working at Healthscope, their patients and wider communities around
- [ANMF condemns fatal shooting of US intensive care nurse](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-condemns-fatal-shooting-of-us-intensive-care-nurse/) - The ANMF has expressed its deep shock and sorrow over the fatal shooting of US ICU nurse Alex Pretti.
- [Australia needs a heatwave plan](https://anmj.org.au/australia-needs-a-heatwave-plan/) - Leaders have met with parliamentarians on Extreme Heat Awareness Day to demand a proactive national policy to address the accelerating heat crisis in Australia. A national day of action on Extreme Heat Awareness Day on February 4, was led by Sweltering Cities and Australian Red Cross, alongside the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU), the
- [ANMF PRIORITIES 2026: Social justice & Climate change](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-priorities-2026-social-justice-climate-change/) - Over recent years, nurses, midwives and care workers have helped drive significant reforms made to healthcare and the professions they work in. This has included advances in gender equity; industrial relations reforms including wage increases through the Aged Care Work Value Case, stronger delegate rights; and long-awaited improvements in aged care with 24/7 registered nurse
- [Influenza and whooping cough vaccines safe in twin pregnancies](https://anmj.org.au/influenza-and-whooping-cough-vaccines-safe-in-twin-pregnancies/) - Women who receive the influenza or whooping cough vaccine during a twin pregnancy are not at higher risk of birth complications, new research shows. The University of Queensland study, which showed 72% of women pregnant with twins were unvaccinated against influenza and whooping cough, has found the vaccines are safe and do not increase the
- [Cosmetic nurse banned for two years after injecting botox without consultation or script](https://anmj.org.au/cosmetic-injecting-nurse-banned-for-two-years-after-injecting-botox-without-consultation-or-script/) - A Queensland nurse who unlawfully injected botox into a patient without consulting a doctor or obtaining a prescription has been banned from practising for at least two years. Investigations by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra), on behalf of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, found Thia Sullivan also created false records in
- [Electronic prescriptions to be trialled in primary care  ](https://anmj.org.au/electronic-prescriptions-to-be-trialled-in-primary-care/) - Electronic prescriptions are set to be the standard method of prescribing in Australia, with the model to be trialled in primary care settings in 2026. Electronic prescribing by default replaces the earlier plan for mandatory electronic prescribing of high-risk and high-cost medicines announced in the 2023–24 Budget. Under this model, electronic prescriptions will be the standard method of prescribing in Australia.
- [ICN expresses solidarity with Venezuelan nurses ](https://anmj.org.au/icn-expresses-solidarity-with-venezuelan-nurses/) - The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has expressed solidarity with Venezuelan nurses and calls for the protection of rights in crises. The ICN has reached out to the Venezuelan Nursing Association (Federation of Nursing Professionals of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela) in response to recent political developments and the ongoing crisis affecting the country to reaffirm that the global nursing community supports Venezuelan nurses during
- [ANMF PRIORITIES 2026: IR reform](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-priorities-2026-ir-reform/) - Over recent years, nurses, midwives and care workers have helped drive significant reforms made to healthcare and the professions they work in. This has included advances in gender equity; industrial relations reforms including wage increases through the Aged Care Work Value Case, stronger delegate rights; and long-awaited improvements in aged care with 24/7 registered nurse
- [ANMF PRIORITIES 2026: Gender equity](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-priorities-2026-gender-equity/) - Over recent years, nurses, midwives and care workers have helped drive significant reforms made to healthcare and the professions they work in. This has included advances in gender equity; industrial relations reforms including wage increases through the Aged Care Work Value Case, stronger delegate rights; and long-awaited improvements in aged care with 24/7 registered nurse
- [ANMF PRIORITIES 2026: Healthcare equity](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-priorities-2026-healthcare-equity/) - Over recent years, nurses, midwives and care workers have helped drive significant reforms made to healthcare and the professions they work in. This has included advances in gender equity; industrial relations reforms including wage increases through the Aged Care Work Value Case, stronger delegate rights; and long-awaited improvements in aged care with 24/7 registered nurse
- [ANMF PRIORITIES 2026: Workforce reform](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-priorities-2026-workforce-reform/) - Over recent years, nurses, midwives and care workers have helped drive significant reforms made to healthcare and the professions they work in. This has included advances in gender equity; industrial relations reforms including wage increases through the Aged Care Work Value Case, stronger delegate rights; and long-awaited improvements in aged care with 24/7 registered nurse
- [Navigating generational diversity and intergenerational friction in nursing and healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/navigating-generational-diversity-and-intergenerational-friction-in-nursing-and-healthcare/) - Australia’s nursing workforce has never been more generationally diverse. From Baby Boomers born between 1946-1964 nearing retirement to Generation Z (Gen Z) nurses (born between 1997-2012) entering clinical roles, we are seeing shifts not just in experience and skill mix – but in values, communication styles, and expectations of leadership. This is more than a
- [Latest issue of Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN) out now](https://anmj.org.au/latest-issue-of-australian-journal-of-advanced-nursing-ajan-out-now-3/) - Volume 42, Issue 4 of the Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN) is now live. As the official peer-reviewed journal of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), the AJAN is committed to publishing high-quality scholarly work that is of critical relevance to nursing and midwifery audiences in professional, clinical, research, education, management, and policy roles. In this
- [Residents in hot, humid regions more likely to have kidney failure](https://anmj.org.au/residents-in-hot-humid-regions-more-likely-to-have-kidney-failure/) - Australians living in consistently hot and humid northern regions are at greater risk of kidney failure than their compatriots in more temperate and less remote locations, researchers have found. University of Queensland researchers investigated the influence of climate zones and geographic disparities on the incidence of patients needing kidney transplants or dialysis. Higher incidences were
- [National Reconciliation Week 2026 theme announced](https://anmj.org.au/national-reconciliation-week-2026-theme-announced/) - The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2026 All In has been announced and calls on Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every day. National Reconciliation Week – 27 May to 3 June every year – is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to recommit ourselves to
- [The campaign for a national Human Rights Act](https://anmj.org.au/the-campaign-for-a-national-human-rights-act/) - Did you know that Australia has no national human rights framework? Australia has been a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights since 1948, but this has never been adopted into Australian law. There are state and territory-based human rights charters in Queensland, Victoria and the ACT, with legislation introduced in NSW in October
- [The New Aged Care Act (2025): Reform or reality for nurses?](https://anmj.org.au/the-new-aged-care-act-2025-reform-or-reality-for-nurses/) - The Aged Care Act 2024, commenced on 1 November 2025. It has ushered in the most significant overhaul of aged care law in a generation. Grounded in rights, dignity and accountability, it replaces a 25-year-old framework with one built around transparency and fairness for older Australians. For nurses, the largest health professional group in aged
- [One in 15 emergency department visits in the ACT linked to extreme weather ](https://anmj.org.au/one-in-15-emergency-department-visits-in-the-act-linked-to-extreme-weather/) - Extreme heat and cold are pushing thousands of Canberrans into emergency departments each year and experts predict that a warming climate is poised to intensify the strain across the ACT. The Australian National University-led research found that almost 36,000 ED presentations between 2000 and 2021 were linked to heat, representing 1 in 40 (2.5%) of all visits. That number is projected
- [Australia's inaugural Respectful Maternity Care conference to address birth trauma ](https://anmj.org.au/australias-inaugural-respectful-maternity-care-conference-to-address-birth-trauma/) - Australia’s first national conference on respectful maternity care will be held in a bold response to the systemic shortcomings exposed by the NSW Birth Trauma Inquiry last year. Hosted by the Maternity Consumer Network, the Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) conference will be held on 6-7 March 2026 in Brisbane, and online for interstate and international attendees. The hybrid event will unite maternity consumers, midwives, obstetricians, researchers and healthcare professionals to champion equity, dignity and
- [New book helps frontline doctors and nurses to calm the mind  ](https://anmj.org.au/new-book-helps-frontline-doctors-and-nurses-to-calm-the-mind/) - In the chaos of emergency medicine, one of the greatest challenges to doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals is not just the emergency in front of them, it is the relentless noise within and around them. Meditation for Medics – Stopping the Noise: A Simple Guide to Unshakeable Mindfulness by a Busy ER Doctor has
- [New grad registered nurse: Navigating the world of mental health](https://anmj.org.au/new-grad-registered-nurse-navigating-the-world-of-mental-health/) - As a newly registered nurse fresh out of university, I was thrilled to be accepted into the specialist Mental Health GradStart program at the Lower North Shore Assertive Outreach Team (LNS AOT). Beginning my career in LNS AOT of the Mental Health Drug and Alcohol (MHDA) service was an exciting and enriching experience. The AOT
- [Nursing system saves lives in emergency departments](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-system-saves-lives-in-emergency-departments/) - The successful rollout of an emergency nursing system is showing significant improvement in patient deterioration, with plans for global expansion. The nursing system, developed at the University of Sydney, is helping to save lives in emergency departments, setting a new national standard for nursing care since its rollout in 2020. Trialled in 29 emergency departments across
- [ANMF forces Regis to pay aged care staff for unpaid mandatory training](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-forces-regis-to-pay-aged-care-staff-for-unpaid-mandatory-training/) - In a major win, aged care provider Regis has committed to paying staff across all its 74 nursing homes nationwide for unpaid mandatory training.
- [New database to target chronic UTIs](https://anmj.org.au/new-database-to-target-chronic-utis/) - A new database targeting chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) – a long-overlooked condition that may begin in childhood – is set to help researchers uncover why millions of women and girls worldwide suffer from infections that defy treatment and stump microbiologists. A growing body of research suggests that persistent, antibiotic-resistant UTIs may be caused by
- [Nominate Australia's best nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/nominate-australias-best-nurses-and-midwives/) - Nominations are open for the 2026 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards. The awards – set to run for their 20th year – honour the vital contributions made by Australia’s nurses, midwives, nurse educators, researchers, and personal care workers, who improve health outcomes for those in our community through exemplary care and support. HESTA CEO
- [New 1800MEDICARE offers free health advice from a registered nurse, 24/7](https://anmj.org.au/new-1800medicare-offers-free-health-advice-from-a-registered-nurse-24-7/) - Australians can now access free health information and advice from a registered nurse from anywhere in the country, 24/7, by calling 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422). Launched at the beginning of the year, the Albanese Government election committment provides immediate support for non-emergency health concerns, including health informaiton and advice and referral to other services such
- [New toolkit outlines complaints and whistleblower protections under new Aged Care Act](https://anmj.org.au/new-toolkit-outlines-complaints-and-whistleblower-protections-under-new-aged-care-act/) - A new stakeholder toolkit aims to strengthen awareness of complaints and whistleblower protections under Australia’s new Aged Care Act, providing practical guidance for older people, their families, carers and aged care workers. The Complaints and whistleblower protections toolkit was developed to support aged care providers, peak bodies, advocacy organisations and community groups to discuss rights
- [Protect against Ross River Virus risk this summer](https://anmj.org.au/protect-against-ross-river-virus-risk-this-summer/) - Australians are being urged to prevent mosquito bites this summer, with warmer temperatures increasing the risk of Ross River Virus outbreaks. The risk of outbreaks with warmer temperatures is especially heightened in river land and coastal regions, research mapping studies from across the country has found. “When it’s summer holidays more of us are likely to
- [Health span vs life span: How to stay healthier for longer](https://anmj.org.au/health-span-vs-life-span-how-to-stay-healthier-for-longer/) - Australians live, on average, 12 years longer than they remain in good health. What does this gap reveal, and how can we future‑proof our lives to enjoy lasting wellbeing in later years? Australians face a decade of poor health unless they close the gap between living longer and staying well. Researchers have identified an average
- [Systemic racism rife in healthcare, NSWNMA report uncovers](https://anmj.org.au/systemic-racism-rife-in-healthcare-nswnma-report-uncovers/) - Nearly two-thirds of nurses, midwives and care workers from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) and/or Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background surveyed had been direct victims of racism, a new report by the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) has exposed. Of these, 9% had experienced racism within the past day, 17% in the
- [ANMF endorses ICN’s new global definition of nurses and nursing](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-endorses-icns-new-global-definition-of-nurses-and-nursing/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has welcomed and endorsed the International Council of Nurses’ (ICN) newly released definitions of nursing and the nurse – a landmark update that formally reflects the profession’s contemporary scope, identity, and contribution to global health. Unveiled at the ICN 2025 Congress in Helsinki, where more than 7,000 nurses
- [International Council of Nurses (ICN) extends condolences after Bondi Beach mass shooting](https://anmj.org.au/international-council-of-nurses-icn-extends-condolences-after-bondi-beach-mass-shooting/) - The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has extended its deepest condolences to the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) and the entire Australian nursing community following the tragic mass shooting at Bondi Beach. In a letter to the ANMF, signed by ICN President Dr Jose Luis Cobos Serrano, and CEO Howard Catton, the federation of
- [Safer sharps, safer workflows: Understanding Australia’s new sharps container standards](https://anmj.org.au/safer-sharps-safer-workflows-understanding-australias-new-sharps-container-standards/) - Nurse Practitioner Sonja Elia, who works in immunisation at Austin Health, talks about her career and specialty.
- [2025 Climate and Health in Our Hands – Our top five WINS](https://anmj.org.au/2025-climate-and-health-in-our-hands-our-top-five-wins/) - As part of our 2025 stocktake, we’re so proud of our collective wins that shifted practice, policy and representation of nurses, midwives and carers in the climate and health space. This work came from the ground up, from nurses, midwives and carers! We spoke with healthcare workers, cross-checked evidence, linked teams across states, and built
- [Modernising My Health Record: Improved access to pathology and diagnostic imaging results](https://anmj.org.au/modernising-my-health-record-improved-access-to-pathology-and-diagnostic-imaging-results/) - Australia is taking significant strides in modernising its healthcare system with My Health Record. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure better and faster access to health information for all Australians. In February this year, legislation was passed to provide a framework for sharing information with My Health Record by default. This
- [Pulse Check of the Aged Care Sector: The Real Impact of Reforms](https://anmj.org.au/pulse-check-of-the-aged-care-sector-the-real-impact-of-reforms/) - The ANMF has launched a national survey to conduct a 'pulse check' of the aged care sector to understand the impact of recent and ongoing reforms.
- [One year on – real support from real nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/one-year-on-real-support-from-real-nurses-and-midwives/) - After serving eight years as Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) Federal Assistant Secretary, Lori-Anne Sharp has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia (NMHPA). Lori-Anne was Federal Assistant Secretary at the ANMF from 2017 to 2025 and served on the Victorian Branch Council from 2004 to 2017. With over
- [New national guidelines on concussion treatment ](https://anmj.org.au/new-national-guidelines-on-concussion-treatment/) - New national clinical guidelines on the treatment of concussion and mild traumatic brain injury and a model of care specific to Australia and New Zealand are now available. University of Queensland researchers have led the development of the guidelines along with an education program to help address an identified knowledge gap. About 50% of people who sustain concussion and mild traumatic brain injury do
- [Landmark reforms expand scope of practice for ACT nurse practitioners ](https://anmj.org.au/landmark-reforms-expand-scope-of-practice-for-act-nurse-practitioners/) - Proposed new legislation will strengthen the role of nurse practitioners in the Australian Capital Territory enabling them to certify cause of death certificates. New legislation has been introduced to give nurse practitioners (NPs), endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), the legal practice authority to issue cause of death certificates and witness non-written health directions. The Nurse
- [Midwifery in Motion: Professional Indemnity Insurance for Intrapartum Care](https://anmj.org.au/midwifery-in-motion-professional-indemnity-insurance-for-intrapartum-care/) - From July 1, 2025, the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing introduced a professional indemnity insurance (PII) product for midwives providing intrapartum care. This insurance is available under the Midwife Professional Indemnity Scheme or MPIS and results in a PII product becoming available for all aspects of private midwifery care. Alongside this change to the
- [My Aged Care failing older Australians: Inspector-General report](https://anmj.org.au/my-aged-care-failing-older-australians-inspector-general-report/) - A significant number of older Australians struggle to navigate My Aged Care, leaving them unable to access the support they need, when they need it. My Aged Care is poorly understood, insufficiently promoted, onerously complex to navigate and not appropriately tailored to the needs of the whole of the target population, a scathing report by
- [Nurse-led support needed for men undergoing hormone therapy for prostate cancer](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-led-support-needed-for-men-undergoing-hormone-therapy-for-prostate-cancer/) - Tailored, nurse-led support for men undergoing hormone therapy for prostate cancer is urgently needed, according to a new study. Men with prostate cancer undergoing androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), also known as hormone therapy, are calling for greater education and more personalised, ongoing support to manage the treatment’s often debilitating side effects, according to a new
- [Australian study explores sexual dysfunction in women at midlife](https://anmj.org.au/australian-study-explores-sexual-dysfunction-in-women-at-midlife/) - Almost 50% of Australian women in midlife have poor sexual wellbeing, including a doubling of the likelihood of desire and arousal dysfunction in early perimenopause. There has been substantial uncertainty regarding the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) at midlife in women aged 40-69 years. A Monash University-led study believed to be the largest of
- [Why your perfect travel partner might not be your family](https://anmj.org.au/why-your-perfect-travel-partner-might-not-be-your-family/) - As Australians gear up for the holiday season, new research has revealed what really makes for the perfect travel companion, and it turns out, it might not be your family after all. An Edith Cowan University (ECU) study offers an insightful look into the personality traits that can make or break a trip, helping travellers
- [New report links ageism to serious healthcare harms](https://anmj.org.au/new-report-links-ageism-to-serious-healthcare-harms/) - Older Australians are feeling dismissed, excluded and stereotyped in healthcare settings, putting their access to life-saving care at risk, according to a new report. The Australian Human Rights Commission The age barrier: older adults’ experiences of ageism in health care, report draws on the lived experiences of older patients, their families and sector experts, supported by a comprehensive literature review. Perceptions of ageism are widespread across
- ['Space for You' resources to support new mums’ mental health in an Australian first](https://anmj.org.au/space-for-you-resources-to-support-new-mums-mental-health-in-an-australian-first/) - Aiming to improve outcomes for mothers and their families, Fiona Stanley Hospital (FSH) is participating in an Australian-first maternal mental health promotion pilot project, called Space for You. The project officially launched today at the FSH Family Birth Centre during Perinatal Mental Health Week. It will trial the use of evidence-based, co-designed health promotion resources
- [Australia sees modest pay gap progress as women earn $28,000 less than men](https://anmj.org.au/australia-sees-modest-pay-gap-progress-as-women-earn-28000-less-than-men/) - Australia’s gender pay gap continues to shrink, with new data revealing meaningful, though uneven, progress towards fairer and more equitable workplaces. The Workplace Gender Equality Agency’s (WGEA) 2024–25 Gender Equality Scorecard, released today, shows the national gender pay gap has fallen an above-trend 0.7 percentage points to 21.1%. It means that for every $1 earned
- [Stronger safety controls for vitamin B6 products](https://anmj.org.au/stronger-safety-controls-for-vitamin-b6-products/) - The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will strengthen safety controls for products containing vitamin B6 to help reduce the risk of nerve damage associated with the long-term consumption of high doses. Products with low doses of vitamin B6 will continue to be available for general sale, while products containing higher doses will require advice from a
- [Historic $16 billion cut to student debt comes into effect](https://anmj.org.au/historic-16-billion-cut-to-student-debt-comes-into-effect/) - Millions of Australians have had their student loans cut as the federal government’s 20% debt reduction measure comes into effect. The one-off debt reduction measure will benefit over three million Australians with the first 100,000 having received notifications via SMS text message, email or their myGov inbox. The Australian Government’s Universities Accord (Cutting Student Debt by 20 per
- [Australia on track to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035](https://anmj.org.au/australia-on-track-to-eliminate-cervical-cancer-by-2035/) - Australia is on track to become the first country to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035, latest data shows. Rates of cervical cancer among Australian women continue to fall, according to the report from the Centre for Research Excellence in Cervical Cancer Control. In 2021, the national cervical cancer rate decreased to 6.3 per 100,000, compared
- [Stand up for the protection of healthcare in conflict zones](https://anmj.org.au/stand-up-for-the-protection-of-health-care-in-conflict-zones/) - Thousands of messages of solidarity from ANMF members and the Australian community are on their way to nurses, midwives, and healthcare workers in Gaza, where they will be translated into Arabic and delivered through the International Committee Red Cross and the Palestine Red Crescent Society. The International Committee of the Red Cross expressed gratitude to
- [AHPRA moves to reduce distress for practitioners facing complaints](https://anmj.org.au/ahpra-moves-to-reduce-distress-for-practitioners-facing-complaints/) - The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is rolling out major reforms to reduce the distress experienced by health practitioners during the notifications (complaints) process, following growing concerns about the psychological impact of regulatory investigations. AHPRA has already completed 13 of 33 actions recommended by an Expert Advisory Group (EAG) aimed at making the complaints
- [Health professionals advised to stop prescribing SABA (blue puffer) to treat asthma](https://anmj.org.au/health-professionals-advised-to-stop-prescribing-saba-blue-puffer-to-treat-asthma/) - Health professionals, including nurses, are being advised to stop prescribing or recommending as-needed short-acting beta2 agonists (SABA) alone to treat asthma in adolescents and adults, under updated guidelines in the National Asthma Council Australia’s (NAC) Australian Asthma Handbook released today. Shifting away from the common blue puffer, the Australian Asthma Handbook now recommends anti-inflammatory reliever
- [Gain digital skills in a changing environment: eLearning packages](https://anmj.org.au/gain-digital-skills-in-a-changing-environment-elearning-packages/) - Get ahead in the digital space. The Australian Digital Health Agency Online Learning Portal offers a range of digital courses specific to nurses and midwives. Digital technologies are transforming healthcare by enhancing patient care, improving operational efficiency, and enabling greater accessibility. Changes are already happening in the way we work with the advent of the
- [Inappropriate use of non-sterile gloves increases infection risk and waste](https://anmj.org.au/inappropriate-use-of-non-sterile-gloves-increases-infection-risk-and-waste/) - The indiscriminate use of non-sterile gloves in hospitals and clinics is significantly adding to environmental pollution and healthcare-associated infections, with little evidence to prove that there are substantial benefits, according to new research. The lack of evidenced-based guidelines in the use of non-sterile gloves in healthcare could be impacting patient outcomes, healthcare costs, and environmental
- [Australia’s Chief Nurse urges primary care nurses and midwives to complete APNA Workforce Survey](https://anmj.org.au/australias-chief-nurse-urges-primary-care-nurses-and-midwives-to-complete-apna-workforce-survey/) - Australia’s Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Professor Alison McMillan PSM, is calling on nurses and midwives working in primary health care to take part in the 2025 APNA Workforce Survey. Run by the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) for two decades, the survey is the only national tool dedicated to capturing the experiences
- [National effort to cut medicine errors at transition of care](https://anmj.org.au/national-effort-to-cut-medicine-errors-at-transition-of-care/) - A new national framework has been released to support health services to reduce medication-related errors and hospital readmission rates for patients who are transitioning between care settings. The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care’s Medication Management at Transitions of Care Stewardship Framework provides the first coordinated, hospital-based approach to manage medicines during
- [Unions launch work health and safety report amid climate crisis](https://anmj.org.au/unions-launch-work-health-and-safety-report-amid-climate-crisis/) - Unions are calling for new work health and safety laws to better protect workers from climate change, including extreme heat, natural disasters and air pollution. A delegation of union leaders and workers, including nurses, firefighters, and teachers, travelled to Canberra today to launch a new report Work Health and Safety in the Era of Climate
- [Thinking outside 4 walls: Nurses and midwives leading digital health](https://anmj.org.au/thinking-outside-4-walls-nurses-and-midwives-leading-digital-health/) - In this fourth ANMF and Australian Digital Health Agency podcast, nursing and midwifery leaders discuss how curiosity and cultural evolution are driving the future of digital health in the professions. From breaking away from traditional models of care to embracing new ways of thinking, the panel explores how nurses and midwives can adapt, lead, and
- [Call for national inquiry into racism in Australian workplaces](https://anmj.org.au/call-for-national-inquiry-into-racism-in-australian-workplaces/) - A proposed national inquiry into racism will be discussed at a roundtable at Parliament House in Canberra today. Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman, Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) President Michele O’Neil and Professor Nareen Young from the University of Technology Sydney’s Jumbanna Institute, together with academics, community leaders and social justice advocates from
- [More affordable contraception with new PBS listing ](https://anmj.org.au/more-affordable-contraception-with-new-pbs-listing/) - Australian women will soon have subsidised access to more affordable contraceptive with the addition of NuvaRing to the PBS this weekend. From this Saturday 1 November 2025, NuvaRing, a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC), will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), giving women access to more choice and lower cost. Medicare item numbers are
- [Recognising the hidden risk: Understanding filicide through mental health nursing and midwifery practice](https://anmj.org.au/recognising-the-hidden-risk-understanding-filicide-through-mental-health-nursing-and-midwifery-practice/) - Filicide, the killing of a child by a parent, is a devastating form of violence and an often-overlooked public health tragedy. This rare and shocking act reverberates across families, communities, and health systems. For nurses, particularly in mental health and midwifery, understanding filicide risk is crucial as a first step in supporting appropriate intervention with
- [Queensland nurses and midwives vote in favour of new $1.8 billion pay deal](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-nurses-and-midwives-vote-in-favour-of-new-1-8-billion-pay-deal/) - After months of negotiations and protected industrial action, Queensland’s public sector nurses and midwives have voted to accept a new pay deal, which includes an 11% pay rise over three years and overtime paid at double time for all shift workers. QNMU Secretary Sarah Beaman commended thousands of frontline union members who stood strong and
- [ANMF to conduct ‘pulse check’ of Australia’s aged care system](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-to-conduct-pulse-check-of-australias-aged-care-system/) - The ANMF has launched a comprehensive national review of Australia's aged care system.
- [Increase in diagnosis of endometriosis in women visiting GPs](https://anmj.org.au/increase-in-diagnosis-of-endometriosis-in-women-visiting-gps/) - The number of women presenting to Australian general practice with endometriosis almost doubled between 2011‒2021, according to a new study by Monash University’s SPHERE Centre of Research Excellence. The comprehensive cohort study, The clinical presentation, investigation, and management of women diagnosed with endometriosis in Australian general practices, 2011–2021: an open cohort study, was published this
- [Rapid kidney test for early intervention and simple monitoring](https://anmj.org.au/rapid-kidney-test-for-early-intervention-and-simple-monitoring/) - A simple blood test may soon identify kidney disease earlier to both halt progression and enable better management with simpler monitoring. Nearly one third of intensive care patients develop acute kidney injury, which is currently hard to detect in very early stages when intervention is critical. While an estimated 13% of people live with chronic
- [RNs poised to prescribe as standard takes effect](https://anmj.org.au/rns-poised-to-prescribe-as-standard-takes-effect/) - The standard that paves the way for registered nurses in Australia to prescribe has come into effect.
- [Ahpra and ATO issue warning about extracting super early  ](https://anmj.org.au/ahpra-and-ato-issue-warning-about-extracting-super-early/) - The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) have issued a joint warning against inappropriate access to superannuation to pay for overly expensive or unnecessary medical treatments. New data released by the ATO yesterday shows significant growth in applications for compassionate release of super, particularly for dental services with the
- [Low-income workers set for super boost under new changes](https://anmj.org.au/low-income-workers-set-for-super-boost-under-new-changes/) - Low-income workers could net up to $60,000 more in superannuation savings by retirement under landmark changes announced by the federal government this week. The government will increase the low-income superannuation tax offset (LISTO) by $310 to $810 and raise the eligibility threshold from $37,000 to $45,000 from 1 July 2027. It says the reform will
- [Scientists develop a ‘virus cocktail’ to combat superbugs](https://anmj.org.au/scientists-develop-a-virus-cocktail-to-combat-superbugs/) - Researchers from Monash University and The Alfred have developed a bespoke phage therapy product that uses bacterial viruses, known as ‘bacteriophages’, to combat a highly problematic, antimicrobial resistant bacteria. The treatment, named Entelli-02, is a five-phage cocktail designed specifically to target Enterobacter cloacae complex (ECC), a group of bacteria responsible for severe, often difficult-to-treat infections.
- [Nurse-led model of care poised to tackle Australia’s skin cancer crisis](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-led-model-of-care-poised-to-tackle-australias-skin-cancer-crisis/) - Australia needs to be innovative when it comes to skin cancer detection by embracing a nurse-led model that could save thousands of lives in the long run, according to a new paper. With the highest melanoma rates in the world – two in three people are diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70
- [Training hospital staff in person-centred dementia care improves recovery outcomes](https://anmj.org.au/training-hospital-staff-in-person-centred-dementia-care-improves-recovery-outcomes/) - Tailored education for hospital staff is improving care for people with dementia, a new Australian study shows. Educating hospital staff in person-centred dementia care leads to better care experiences, greater staff confidence, and improved rehabilitation outcomes for older people, the research found. The study, conducted by UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), evaluated a
- [Hospitals unprepared for surrogacy births: Calls for national guidelines](https://anmj.org.au/hospitals-unprepared-for-surrogacy-births-calls-for-national-guidelines/) - Fewer than one in 10 hospitals in New South Wales and Victoria have policies to guide surrogacy births, prompting urgent calls from experts for national standards. The research, published in the Journal of Law and Medicine, reviewed 112 metropolitan hospitals across both states and found only 10 had surrogacy birth care policies. The lack of clear
- [Creating healthy habits to drive our daily actions](https://anmj.org.au/creating-healthy-habits-to-drive-our-daily-actions/) - Healthier lifestyle changes may be less about starting from scratch and more about swapping one habit for another. New research shows 66% of our actions are habitual, indicating that habit, not conscious choice, drives most of our daily actions. The findings from the joint research, conducted by the University of Surrey, University of South Carolina
- [Culturally safe and accessible pregnancy care clinic opens for Aboriginal women in metro WA](https://anmj.org.au/culturally-safe-and-accessible-pregnancy-care-clinic-opens-for-aboriginal-women-in-metro-wa/) - A culturally safe and accessible pregnancy clinic is now available for Aboriginal women and their families in Perth’s southwest. The Fiona Stanley Hospital (FSH) Boodjari Bidi clinic, meaning ‘the pregnancy path’ in Noongar language, was renamed with community consultation and offers culturally safe pregnancy care by midwives supported by maternity Aboriginal Health Practitioners (AHPs). The
- [Sign petition for better pay and conditions for South Australian nurses and midwives ](https://anmj.org.au/sign-petition-for-better-pay-and-conditions-for-south-australian-nurses-and-midwives/) - South Australian public sector nurses and midwives are seeking support from colleagues and the community in their pursuit of a fair and reasonable pay, and conditions offer. The ANMF SA Branch has launched a petition demanding a fair and respectful revised offer from the state government. “Whether you’re a nurse, midwife, or standing in solidarity for someone you
- [‘Eighty years is enough’: Why Australia must sign the Treaty to ban nuclear weapons](https://anmj.org.au/eighty-years-is-enough-why-australia-must-sign-the-treaty-to-ban-nuclear-weapons/) - “There are no safe hands for nuclear weapons,” says activist Dimity Hawkins, co-founder of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN). As the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States approaches on 6 and 9 August, the leading nuclear disarmament advocate warns that amid ongoing global conflicts,
- [Explainer: Why aged care wages are rising on October 1](https://anmj.org.au/explainer-why-aged-care-wages-are-rising-on-october-1/) - If you are a direct care worker or nurse working in aged care, you may notice an extra dollar or so has been added to your hourly rate of pay. While the small increase may not seem like much, it all adds up, and helps with cost-of-living pressures. Why did my pay increase? The
- [Paediatric Organ Donation Specialist Nurse urges Australians to consider giving someone a second chance at life](https://anmj.org.au/paediatric-organ-donation-specialist-nurse-urges-australians-to-consider-giving-someone-a-second-chance-at-life/) - “This job enables me to offer families a chance to create a legacy for their child,” says Mellissa Short, a DonateLife Victoria paediatrics Nurse Donation Specialist based at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) and Monash Children’s Hospital. “Organ and tissue donation can help families cope with their grief in the months and years ahead of
- [Paid clinical placements a ‘positive first step’, says ANMF](https://anmj.org.au/paid-clinical-placements-a-positive-first-step-says-anmf/) - From today, nursing and midwifery students across Australia can apply for the $331.65 per week Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) to manage the significant financial costs of undertaking their mandatory clinical placements. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) was instrumental in advocating for the CPP to help alleviate widespread ‘placement poverty’ experienced by students due
- [Student Spotlight – Connin](https://anmj.org.au/student-spotlight-connin/) - Connin Pinto is a Bachelor of Nursing student at Curtin University. 1. What inspired you to choose a career in nursing? I was inspired to do nursing by my mum, who is a nurse. Seeing her passion and dedication towards the job had a massive impact on me growing up and drove me to choose
- [Nurses can’t stay silent on medicinal cannabis: A call for safer, smarter practice](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-cant-stay-silent-on-medicinal-cannabis-a-call-for-safer-smarter-practice/) - As a nurse who has worked at the frontline of both traditional and cannabinoid-based care, I’ve witnessed the real-world consequences of our system’s slow and inconsistent uptake of medicinal cannabis policy. Despite medicinal cannabis being legal and regulated in Australia since 2016, nurses are still left in the dark. We are expected to care for
- [Historic court case begins on better pay for NSW nurses and midwives ](https://anmj.org.au/historic-court-case-begins-on-better-pay-for-nsw-nurses-and-midwives/) - A landmark campaign to improve NSW public sector nurses’ and midwives’ pay and conditions will culminate in one of the state’s biggest legal cases in decades, as a six-week hearing gets underway in the NSW Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) today. After rejecting the state government’s offer of 9% over three years, the NSWNMA has mounted
- [‘Use us or lose us’: Victorian student nurses and midwives rally to secure jobs](https://anmj.org.au/use-us-or-lose-us-victorian-student-nurses-and-midwives-rally-to-secure-jobs/) - Dozens of Victorian student nurses and midwives, union members and community supporters have rallied on the steps of Parliament for the state government to fund additional graduate places for 2026.
- [NEW ERA: Australian registered nurses empowered to prescribe](https://anmj.org.au/new-era-australian-registered-nurses-empowered-to-prescribe/) - In December 2024, Health Ministers approved a new Registration standard: Endorsement for scheduled medicines – designated registered nurse prescriber, paving the way for qualified registered nurses to prescribe Schedule 2, 3, 4 and 8 medicines in partnership with an authorised health practitioner who is an independent prescriber. This landmark change will take effect mid-2025. REGISTERED
- [Latest issue of Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN) out now](https://anmj.org.au/latest-issue-of-australian-journal-of-advanced-nursing-ajan-out-now-2/) - Volume 42, Issue 3 of the Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN) is now live. As the official peer-reviewed journal of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), AJAN is committed to publishing high-quality scholarly work that is of critical relevance to nursing and midwifery audiences in professional, clinical, research, education, management, and policy roles. In this issue
- [National Boards and Ahpra set registration fees for 2025/26](https://anmj.org.au/national-boards-and-ahpra-set-registration-fees-for-2025-26/) - The National Boards and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) have published annual registration fees for practitioners for 2025/26. For nurses and midwives, the cost of renewing general registration for nurses and midwives will increase from $185 to $193. The fee will cover the registration period from 1 June 2026 to 31 May 2027.
- [TGA confirms paracetamol safe for use in pregnancy](https://anmj.org.au/tga-confirms-paracetamol-safe-for-use-in-pregnancy/) - The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has confirmed that paracetamol (Tylenol/Acetaminophen) is safe to use during pregnancy, rejecting controversial claims made by the US Donald Trump administration regarding an increased risk to the development of autism in children. Joining numerous other global medicines regulators, leading clinicians and scientists worldwide, the TGA said the views were unfounded.
- [‘We need these graduate nurses and midwives’: ANMF (Vic Branch) urges government to fund more places](https://anmj.org.au/we-need-these-graduate-nurses-and-midwives-anmf-vic-branch-urges-government-to-fund-more-places/) - Thousands of Victorian graduate nurses and midwives could miss out on a grad position in 2026 due to lack of places.
- [Carrying Water Through Fire: Investing in the Resilience of our Communities](https://anmj.org.au/carrying-water-through-fire-investing-in-the-resilience-of-our-communities/) - Earlier this year, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Journal published a three-part series capturing the stories of nurses, midwives and carers working on the frontline of climate-driven disasters. These stories took readers into flood-stricken Northern New South Wales, a bushfire-surrounded hospital on the New South Wales south coast, and the heat-blasted hospital in remote Western
- [Needle-free flu vaccine to benefit NSW and QLD children ](https://anmj.org.au/needle-free-flu-vaccine-to-benefit-nsw-and-qld-children/) - No-cost needle-free influenza vaccinations for young children in New South Wales and Queensland have been welcomed as a major step forward in public health, with calls for other states and territories to follow. The NSW and QLD governments announced this week the intranasal influenza vaccine (FluMist) for children aged two to under five will be
- [Standing Against Asbestos: ANMF Calls for Action in Indonesia](https://anmj.org.au/standing-against-asbestos-anmf-calls-for-action-in-indonesia/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has expressed deep concern over the defamation lawsuit brought by the Indonesian Fibre Cement Manufacturers’ Association (FICMA) Indonesia against the Local Initiatives OHS Network (LION) and its partners. The Indonesian Fibre Cement Manufacturers’ Association (FICMA) is suing the Local Initiatives OHS Network (LION) and others for defamation and
- [Gaza genocide: UN Commission finds Israel responsible  ](https://anmj.org.au/gaza-genocide-un-commission-finds-israel-responsible/) - Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, a United Nations International Commission of Inquiry has found in a new report released yesterday. The United Nations Commission of Inquiry, established by the UN Human Rights Council, has been investigating the events in Gaza since 7 October 2023. Israeli authorities and Israeli security forces have committed
- [New guidelines for nurses performing non-surgical cosmetic procedures](https://anmj.org.au/new-guidelines-for-nurses-performing-non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures/) - Registered nurses will now need at least one-year of practice under their belt before performing non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
- [Reframing End-of-Life Care: A call for courage and compassion in nursing and midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/reframing-end-of-life-care-a-call-for-courage-and-compassion-in-nursing-and-midwifery/) - How we die is complicated. Health and medical sciences and advances in clinical care have had a dramatic impact on Australians’ lives. Complex chronic illnesses are being treated successfully, and lives are prolonged. At the same time, the end-of-life has become increasingly complex and often protracted. Australians are living longer than ever, with median age
- [Just as flowers need sunlight and care to thrive, nurses and midwives flourish in an environment of compassion and respect](https://anmj.org.au/just-as-flowers-need-sunlight-and-care-to-thrive-nurses-and-midwives-flourish-in-an-environment-of-compassion-and-respect/) - The Oxygen Mask Theory teaches us to prioritise our own care before helping others. This may seem unusual for some. However, it reveals an important truth: we can only care for others when we first take care of our own wellbeing. Nurses and midwives are essential in delivering Trauma-Informed Care (TIC), dedicated to preventing re-traumatisation,
- [Seeking safe harbour](https://anmj.org.au/seeking-safe-harbour/) - The idea of providing ‘safe harbour’ has its origins in the history of the abolition of slavery. As northern states in America made laws to abolish slavery, southern states passed laws such as the Fugitive Slave Law. This law made it illegal for escaped slaves to be given assistance, such as food, shelter and transport
- [ANMF powerhouse: The Biennial National Conference](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-powerhouse-the-biennial-national-conference/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation will be holding its Biennial National Conference (BNC) on the Gold Coast in October. What is the BNC, who attends and why is it important to nurses, midwives and care workers? The ANMF is Australia’s largest union with over 345,000 nurses, midwives and care workers who are members of
- [Dementia now leading cause of death for Australians](https://anmj.org.au/dementia-now-leading-cause-of-death-for-australians/) - Dementia is now the leading cause of death for Australians, according to the latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) Dementia in Australia update. The latest AIHW update coincides with Dementia Action Week 2025 which runs from Monday 15 September to Sunday 21 September, and includes World Alzheimer’s Day on Sunday 21 September. Without
- [Clinical pathways show early signs of progress in sepsis burden](https://anmj.org.au/clinical-pathways-show-early-signs-of-progress-in-sepsis-burden/) - A decline in the proportion of sepsis-related deaths occurring in emergency departments suggests the growing impact of sepsis education and pathways, reveals a new report released ahead of World Sepsis Day tomorrow. The landmark report released for World Sepsis Day, 13 September 2025, reveals that sepsis is more prevalent, deadly and costly than previously understood.
- [Webinar recording now available: Digital Health in Aged Care](https://anmj.org.au/webinar-recording-now-available-digital-health-in-aged-care/) - We’re excited to share that the Digital Health in Aged Care – Improving the Resident Transfer Experience webinar recording is now available. This latest webinar in the digital health series – an ongoing collaboration between the Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) aims to boost digital health literacy
- [RN prescribing webinar – Be ready for the change](https://anmj.org.au/rn-prescribing-webinar-be-ready-for-the-change/) - The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) and Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) will host a webinar later this month on designated registered nurse prescribing to help stakeholders prepare for the landmark change. The new Registration standard: Endorsement for scheduled medicines – designated registered nurse prescriber, will take effect on 30 September.
- [First-ever Chief Remote Area Nurse (RAN) appointed](https://anmj.org.au/first-ever-chief-remote-area-nurse-ran-appointed/) - The Congress of Remote Area Nurses of Australia (CRANAplus) has appointed its first Chief Remote Area Nurse (RAN) – a landmark move aimed at strengthening the voice and visibility of the specialty nationwide. Distinguished nursing leader and educator Heather Keighley will step into the newly established senior leadership role, spearheading national advocacy efforts, shaping evidence-based
- [Let Children Live: global campaign to save Palestinian Children](https://anmj.org.au/let-children-live-global-campaign-to-save-palestinian-children/) - Nurses and midwives are encouraged to join a global campaign calling for urgent action to protect the lives of Palestinian Children in the occupied territories. The Let Children Live campaign led by Save the Children and Amnesty International is calling for urgent action to protect the lives and rights of 2.38 million Palestinian children living
- [NSW nurses and midwives accept interim pay deal](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-nurses-and-midwives-accept-interim-pay-deal/) - Public sector nurses and midwives have voted to accept the NSW government’s interim pay and conditions offer, which includes an interim 3% pay increase back paid to 1 July 2025, and night duty penalty increase to 20%. The offer also includes several no cost claims: two consecutive days off consultation before published roster changes no
- [Hepatitis B and C: A call to action for nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/hepatitis-b-and-c-a-call-to-action-for-nurses-and-midwives/) - In Australia, just under 300,000 people live with chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C, liver infections caused by the hepatitis B and C viruses.1 If the infections become chronic, they may cause liver disease and liver cancer, which has the fastest increasing mortality rate in Australia compared to other cancers.2 Hepatitis B and C are
- [South Australia edges closer to mandated nurse and midwife ratios](https://anmj.org.au/south-australia-edges-closer-to-mandated-nurse-and-midwife-ratios/) - The South Australian state government will this week introduce landmark legislation to mandate nurse-to-patient and midwife-to-patient ratios across public hospitals, delivering on its pre-election commitment. The proposed new laws, strongly lobbied for by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF SA Branch), are modelled on Victoria’s pioneering ratios legislation, which prioritise patient care, safety, and
- [‘This is dangerous’: QNMU sounds alarm over BlueCare plan to axe 60% of enrolled nurses](https://anmj.org.au/this-is-dangerous-qnmu-sounds-alarm-over-bluecare-plan-to-axe-60-of-enrolled-nurses/) - The QNMU has slammed a move by the state's largest aged care provider to slash 60% of its enrolled nursing workforce.
- [Position statement calls for strengthening respiratory nursing workforce](https://anmj.org.au/position-statement-calls-for-strengthening-respiratory-nursing-workforce/) - Respiratory nurses have been recognised for their indispensable role in improving lung health across Australia and New Zealand. The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ) new position statement outlines critical priorities to strengthen the respiratory nursing workforce to ensure optimal care for individuals living with lung conditions. The Position Statement, “Respiratory Nurse Leadership
- [‘Educate and empower patients’: Meet APNA’s new president, Denise Lyons](https://anmj.org.au/educate-and-empower-patientsmeet-apnas-new-president-denise-lyons/) - The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) recently appointed Denise Lyons as its new president. The ANMJ takes a look at her priorities looking ahead. You’ve worked across paediatrics, emergency, and general practice – what drew you to primary health? One of the most appealing aspects of primary care nursing for me is the
- [Racism in healthcare is costing lives, new report shows ](https://anmj.org.au/racism-in-healthcare-is-costing-lives-new-report-shows/) - The devastating impact of health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples impacted by racism has been laid bare in a report released today by the Australian Human Rights Commission. Health inequities in Australia: A scoping review on the impact of racism on health outcomes and healthcare access synthesises evidence from 100 studies and highlights
- [Common painkillers linked to antibiotic resistance](https://anmj.org.au/common-painkillers-linked-to-antibiotic-resistance/) - Common over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are fuelling antibiotic resistance, according to new research from the University of South Australia. What’s more, when used together, they are amplifying one of the world’s biggest health threats. Assessing the interaction of non-antibiotic medications, the broad-spectrum antibiotic ciprofloxacin, and Escherichia coli (E. coli) – a common
- [New asthma educational resources for health professionals](https://anmj.org.au/new-asthma-educational-resources-for-health-professionals/) - Health professionals can now download a comprehensive new suite of resources to encourage the use of spacers with pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs). Developed by the National Asthma Council Australia (NAC), the resources include a new spacer chart and information sheet for health professionals and an accompanying how-to-video. Only about one in 10 patients can
- [Prac Payment a game-changer for nursing and midwifery students](https://anmj.org.au/prac-payment-a-game-changer-for-nursing-and-midwifery-students/) - Final-year nursing student Emily is among thousands of students already benefiting from the new Commonwealth Prac Payment.
- [Applications now open: $21.5 million in scholarships to help aged care nurses and workers advance careers ](https://anmj.org.au/applications-now-open-21-5-million-in-scholarships-to-help-aged-care-nurses-and-workers-advance-careers/) - The federal government is investing $21.5 million in more than 1,000 scholarships to help aged care workers and nurses further their education and training, as part of efforts to strengthen the workforce’s capacity to deliver high-quality care that meets the complex needs of older Australians. Aged Care Minister Sam Rae launched the Aged Care Nursing
- [Applications now open: $21.5 million in scholarships to help aged care nurses and workers advance careers ](https://anmj.org.au/applications-now-open-21-5-million-in-scholarships-to-help-aged-care-nurses-and-workers-advance-careers/) - The federal government is investing $21.5 million in more than 1,000 scholarships to help aged care workers and nurses further their education and training, as part of efforts to strengthen the workforce’s capacity to deliver high-quality care that meets the complex needs of older Australians. Aged Care Minister Sam Rae launched the Aged Care Nursing
- [AI tool calculates tailored chemotherapy doses](https://anmj.org.au/ai-tool-calculates-tailored-chemotherapy-doses/) - A new artificial intelligence tool that prevents cancer patients from receiving incorrect doses of chemotherapy has been developed by Melbourne researchers. Chemotherapy is typically dosed by calculating the patient’s body surface area using their height and weight. However, researchers argue this method is highly inaccurate as it does not factor in body composition. University of Melbourne
- ['We support each other': A nurse's journey working in war-torn Ukraine](https://anmj.org.au/working-in-a-war-zone-ukraine-2022/) - My husband and I were deployed to Ukraine to work in an Emergency Field Hospital (EFH) with International Relief Agency, Samaritan’s Purse (SP), following the full-scale invasion by Russia the previous February, 24 May 2022. The journey from Poland was eerie as our bus of aid workers was the only vehicle on the motorway headed for
- [‘The war is on top of you’: Red Cross nurse Ruth Jebb on caring for the injured in Gaza](https://anmj.org.au/the-war-is-on-top-of-you-red-cross-nurse-ruth-jebb-on-caring-for-the-injured-in-gaza/) - For Brisbane-based Red Cross humanitarian nurse Ruth Jebb, responding to some of the world's biggest emergencies - no matter how dangerous - has always been a given.
- [Nurse practitioners working in urgent care invited to take part in Curtin University study](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-practitioners-working-in-urgent-care-invited-to-take-part-in-curtin-university-study/) - Nurse Practitioners (NPs) working in urgent care are invited to participate in a Curtin University study exploring NP roles in Australian Urgent Care Centres (UCCs). The research aims to identify how organisational and systemic factors enable or constrain NPs’ ability to work at full scope in urgent care settings. Despite strong evidence supporting NP-led models,
- [Supporting deprescribing with the AMH Aged Care Companion](https://anmj.org.au/supporting-deprescribing-with-the-amh-aged-care-companion/) - Optimising medicine use in older people is a complex balance between disease management and avoiding medicine-related problems As a person ages (particularly after the age of 70) they are more likely to have multiple chronic conditions, leading to the use of multiple medicines—commonly referred to as polypharmacy. While medicines can improve a person’s ability to
- [Addressing disordered eating among Aboriginal youth](https://anmj.org.au/addressing-disordered-eating-among-aboriginal-youth/) - A new research project will examine how social media influences body image and disordered eating behaviours among Aboriginal young people. The Edith Cowan University (ECU) study aims to better understand how disordered eating affects Aboriginal youth aged 13 to 25 in the Perth metropolitan area. Disordered eating relates to irregular eating habits or symptoms that
- [Student Spotlight – Kayla](https://anmj.org.au/student-spotlight-kayla/) - Kayla is studying nursing/midwifery at The University of Queensland. 1.What inspired you to choose a career in nursing/midwifery? I have always had a passion for healthcare. My dad worked for Snowy Hydro Southcare, which was an aeromedical rescue helicopter in Canberra and Southern NSW, and I grew up listening to his stories of medical rescues
- [New guidelines for people with inflammatory bowel disease](https://anmj.org.au/new-guidelines-for-people-with-inflammatory-bowel-disease/) - The European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO), the world’s leading authority in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, has published its first Consensus Guidelines on the dietary management of IBD, providing evidence-based practical recommendations on how diet should be used to support people living with IBD. Monash University’s Associate Professor Emma
- [Webinar: Digital Health in Aged Care - Improving the Resident Transfer Experience](https://anmj.org.au/webinar-digital-health-in-aged-care-improving-the-resident-transfer-experience/) - Are you confident using My Health Record for aged care residents? Come join us for this latest webinar, presented by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation and the Australian Digital Health Agency, in their digital health series. This webinar provides a professional development opportunity for nurses and care workers across healthcare settings who care for
- [Sleep apnea incidence and severity to double with climate change](https://anmj.org.au/sleep-apnea-incidence-and-severity-to-double-with-climate-change/) - Sleep apnea will become more common and severe due to global warming, leading to increased health and economic burdens across the world, warn Australian scientists. Rising temperatures increase the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and under the most likely climate change scenarios, the societal burden of OSA is expected to double in most countries
- [General practice nurses could be key to better contraception and abortion care](https://anmj.org.au/general-practice-nurses-could-be-key-to-better-contraception-and-abortion-care/) - General practice nurses are well-positioned to increase women’s access to the most effective form of contraception and abortion care if more support and training is provided, according to new research from Monash University’s SPHERE Centre of Research Excellence. A study, published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, revealed practice nurses – registered or enrolled nurses
- [Virtual reality as part of paediatric burns pain management](https://anmj.org.au/virtual-reality-as-part-of-paediatric-burns-pain-management/) - The applications of Virtual Reality are being investigated for its benefits for paediatric burns pain management at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. Smileyscope is a virtual reality neuromodulation improving outcomes from burns dressings to medical imaging. The efficacy of Smileyscope in reducing pain and anxiety during dressing changes is being tested by Griffith University’s School of
- [Australian and PNG collaboration to help improve maternal outcomes](https://anmj.org.au/australian-and-png-collaboration-to-help-improve-maternal-outcomes/) - A Buddy Program between Australian and Papua New Guinean midwives is seeing the transference of skills and knowledge to help improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in both countries. Papua New Guinea is one of Australia’s nearest neighbours, but the experience of pregnancy and birth for women in PNG is often far different, with one of
- [Telehealth offers a ‘lifeline’ but rules need changing, argue researchers](https://anmj.org.au/telehealth-offers-a-lifeline-but-rules-need-changing-argue-researchers/) - Telehealth is keeping Australians healthier and more connected, but outdated rules are putting it beyond reach for those who need it the most, argue Flinders University researchers. After skyrocketing during the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth – where medical services are delivered by phone or video call – has become a mainstay of healthcare systems in Australia
- [New life-saving first aid app brings emergency help to rural families](https://anmj.org.au/new-life-saving-first-aid-app-brings-emergency-help-to-rural-families/) - A ground-breaking first aid app set to transform emergency response for rural and remote families has been developed by a Victorian nurse and her sister. The All Hands Lifesaver app, launched in July, equips parents and carers with critical lifesaving knowledge, even without mobile reception. The app was launched by charity The Sisterhood Project, is
- [Celebrating over 300 McGrath Foundation cancer nurses this Cancer Nurses Day ](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-over-300-mcgrath-foundation-cancer-nurses-this-cancer-nurses-day/) - There are now more than 300 McGrath Cancer Care Nurses around the country, a milestone acknowledged today on Cancer Nurses Day. Cancer Nurses Day held on 14 August this year, recognises the 7,700 cancer nurses nationwide and their outstanding contributions in improving patient outcomes in Australia. The 2025 Cancer Nurses Day theme is Strong, Skilled
- [The Power of Starting a Green Group ](https://anmj.org.au/the-power-of-starting-a-green-group/) - Why collective action is one of the best ways to lead change in your workplace and community. It started with cold curry in my lunch box and a ward office full of nurses. Our sustainability Clinical Nurse Consultant was clicking through slides about PVC recycling while we crammed in our lunch, knowing we all had
- [Exercise may reduce breast cancer recurrence ](https://anmj.org.au/exercise-may-reduce-breast-cancer-recurrence/) - Exercise – both aerobic and resistance training – may potentially reduce the recurrence rate of breast cancer, according to new research. Despite the advances made in breast cancer treatment, recurrence remains common and continues to contribute to higher mortality risks. In more aggressive cancers, the risk of recurrence can be as high as between 20%
- [Poor sleep linked with neurodegeneration](https://anmj.org.au/poor-sleep-linked-with-neurodegeneration/) - Poor sleep could have an impact on brain health, according to a new study, in another blow to shift and night duty workers struggling to attain enough shuteye. The research, a review of over 100 existing studies, found that sleep characteristics like poor quality or lack of sleep, as well as sleep disorders, were linked
- [First Nations women earn one third less than Australian men ](https://anmj.org.au/first-nations-women-earn-one-third-less-than-australian-men/) - First Nations women have the largest gender pay gap in Australia, according to new workforce data released today. First Nations women earn on average 35% less than average Australian male workers, the Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) report found. The pay gap for First Nations women was also almost 10 percentage points greater than for
- [‘The accidental school nurse’: More skilled nurses needed to help students, finds study](https://anmj.org.au/the-accidental-school-nurse-more-skilled-nurses-needed-to-help-students-finds-study/) - While no formal education pathways to become a school nurse in Australia exist, nurses are stumbling into the career path via a number of ways, new research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) suggests. “The accidental school nurse; that’s almost a way to describe this career path,” says lead author, Dr Anita Moyes. “A lot of
- [What is a ‘model of care’? Enhancing understandings of contemporary nursing practice](https://anmj.org.au/what-is-a-model-of-care-enhancing-understandings-of-contemporary-nursing-practice/) - A re-elected Albanese Government will inject $8.5 billion into Medicare to give all Australians access to bulk-billing.
- [‘Moulds are for pottery, not for midwives’. Exploring the career of an academic midiwfe](https://anmj.org.au/moulds-are-for-pottery-not-for-midwives-exploring-the-career-of-an-academic-midiwfe/) - With two nurses for parents, Liz McNeill once swore she would never follow in their footsteps. “I heard all the stories growing up, my Dad was a psychiatric nurse and my mother worked in aged care, and I thought, no thanks,” she recalls. But fate had other ideas. From a young age, Liz was drawn
- [South Gaza's lifeline must be preserved, warns medical humanitarian aid agency](https://anmj.org.au/south-gazas-lifeline-must-be-preserved-warns-medical-humanitarian-aid-agency/) - Independent medical humanitarian organisation Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has called on Israeli authorities to allow unimpeded access to patients in Southern Gaza to avoid more deaths. “Our teams have received patients who have been critically injured while trying to get food, as a result of the shootings which have taken place around the
- [Meet the ANMF’s new Climate Change Officer  ](https://anmj.org.au/meet-the-anmfs-first-ever-climate-change-officer/) - “I wasn’t always passionate about environmental sustainability and climate change,” admits Catelyn Richards, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation’s (ANMF) newly appointed Climate Change Officer. “I was, first and foremost, a humanitarian, and saw my role as a nurse as one to give back to the community.” But as her nursing career evolved, the undeniable
- [Primary Care Scholarship program boosts future nurse practitioners](https://anmj.org.au/primary-care-scholarship-program-boosts-future-nurse-practitioners/) - Sexual and Reproductive Health Nurse Robyn Holmes is among hundreds of registered nurses on the journey to becoming a nurse practitioner thanks to a Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship. “It has eased financial pressures, allowing me to focus on both my education and clinical practice,” she tells the ANMJ. “The advanced clinical knowledge and
- [Trailblazing ANMF (Vic Branch) leader, Lisa Fitzpatrick, clocks off](https://anmj.org.au/trailblazing-anmf-vic-branch-leader-lisa-fitzpatrick-clocks-off/) - After more than two decades at the helm of the ANMF (Vic Branch), Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick has retired.
- [Advertising blitz to boost primary healthcare workforce welcomed  ](https://anmj.org.au/advertising-blitz-to-boost-primary-healthcare-workforce-welcomed/) - The ANMF has welcomed the first ever Australian government advertising campaign to showcase the diverse and rewarding careers available in primary healthcare which launched today. The new national campaign will be delivered via television, social media, digital video and ‘out-of-home’ ads like billboards around TAFEs, universities and hospitals. The campaign highlights promotes nursing, midwifery and
- [Nurses at the forefront of youth homelessness support](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-at-the-forefront-of-youth-homelessness-support/) - Amid the hustle and bustle of Melbourne’s King Street, a small team of dedicated nurses provide vital healthcare to young people aged 12 to 24 experiencing homelessness. “What I love most is that you feel like you are making a difference in young people’s lives,” says youth health nurse practitioner Dot Henning. “These are young
- [Speaking up on climate: How nurses and midwives can drive change ](https://anmj.org.au/speaking-up-on-climate-how-nurses-and-midwives-can-drive-change/) - Last month, I had the opportunity to present at the Tasmanian Delegates Conference on climate action in nursing. These conferences play a vital role in shaping our collective movements. They bring together nurses from across the state to share ideas, raise concerns, and shape the direction of collective advocacy. They are a chance to step
- [Wearable wound monitoring device could improve chronic infection care](https://anmj.org.au/wearable-wound-monitoring-device-could-improve-chronic-infection-care/) - RMIT University researchers have developed a wearable wound monitoring device with integrated sensors that could reduce infection risks by minimising the need for frequent physical contact. Standard methods require regular removal of wound dressings for assessments, often delaying crucial interventions, whereas this invention monitors healing remotely via a Bluetooth connection. The proof-of-concept device is designed
- [Mozambique conflict cripples healthcare as needs soar ](https://anmj.org.au/mozambique-conflict-cripples-healthcare-as-needs-soar/) - As violence escalates in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province, healthcare access is collapsing, leaving thousands without life-saving care. The region has long experienced instability but has been in conflict for almost eight years When radicalized Muslim youths attacked the local police station and the military post in Mocímboa da Praia since then it has been plagued
- [10,000 steps? New study suggests 7,000 just as good for health](https://anmj.org.au/10000-steps-a-new-study-suggests-7000-just-as-good-for-health/) - A new study suggests it might be time to rethink the common 10,000-steps-a-day goal, with just 7,000 daily steps achieving nearly identical health benefits. Led by Professor Melody Ding from the University of Sydney’s School of Public Health, the study, published in The Lancet Public Health, analysed data from 57 studies from 2014 to 2025 that were conducted in
- [Between the frontline and the executive: A personal call to recognise and support healthcare’s middle managers ](https://anmj.org.au/the-invisible-backbone-recognising-and-supporting-middle-managers-in-healthcare/) - Middle managers—such as Nurse Unit Managers (NUMs), Midwifery Unit Managers (MUMs), and departmental leaders—play a critical role in translating strategic priorities into frontline care. They are the vital link between executive leadership and clinical teams. Yet, despite their pivotal position, they often operate without adequate recognition, consistent support, or inclusion in broader organisational acknowledgements. The
- [A life beyond the ward: Andree’s story of conflict, care and connection ](https://anmj.org.au/a-life-beyond-the-ward-andrees-story-of-conflict-care-and-connection/) - When Andree Girardau finished her nursing studies, she knew she wanted more than a standard hospital career. “So, I worked remotely, lived up in Cairns, built up my skills – and then I saw an advertisement for international work.” What came next would change her life. It was the early 1990s, and after an interview
- [PLACEMENT POVERTY: Why nursing and midwifery students must be paid for clinical placements](https://anmj.org.au/placement-poverty-why-nursing-and-midwifery-students-must-be-paid-for-clinical-placements/) - A growing number of undergraduate nursing and midwifery students nationwide are voicing concerns about the significant challenges posed by hundreds of hours of mandatory unpaid clinical placements. Robert Fedele investigates. Erin Pereira, a former banker turned aspiring midwife, found inspiration in the remarkable work of midwives during the birth of her first child. Now in
- [Intermittent fasting improves night shift worker health, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/intermittent-fasting-improves-night-shift-worker-health-study-finds/) - Intermittent fasting (IF) used as an alternative to continuous energy restriction (CER) supports metabolic health improvements and weight loss in night shift workers, a Monash University-led study (the SWIFt study) has found. Published in The Lancet’s eBioMedicine, researchers tested the effectiveness of two modified IF strategies, more commonly known as the 5:2 diet, compared with
- [Deadly Outstanding Workforce Leadership (OWL) Research Program supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nurses and midwives  ](https://anmj.org.au/deadly-outstanding-workforce-leadership-owl-research-program-supports-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-nurses-and-midwives/) - Evidence-based practice is crucial for ensuring the best patient outcomes, and as Australia’s largest and most diverse health workforce, involved in almost all sectors of healthcare delivery, it is of great importance that nurses and midwives are equipped to apply evidence-based practice. However, nurses and midwives often encounter difficulties in translating research evidence into clinical
- [Australia managing chronic conditions well compared to other countries](https://anmj.org.au/australia-managing-chronic-conditions-well-compared-to-other-countries/) - Australia is managing chronic conditions well compared to other countries, according to a new international survey of patients on their health outcomes and experienced with GP practices. The nation performed better or close to the OECD average across 10 health areas measured, including ranking in the top five countries in four areas – quality of
- [Nurses and midwives stand for peace: Why solidarity matters ](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-stand-for-peace-why-solidarity-matters/) - The ANMF has launched a Nurses and Midwives for Peace campaign - a space for action, reflection and support amid global conflicts and war.
- [Melbourne emergency nurse delivers humanitarian aid in Gaza ](https://anmj.org.au/melbourne-emergency-nurse-delivers-humanitarian-aid-in-gaza/) - Australian emergency nurse Jean-Philippe Miller has been deployed to Gaza three times with Australian Red Cross since early 2024. Amid the escalating humanitarian crisis, he talks of the need of adherence to International Humanitarian Law. Jean-Philippe spent 36 days in Gaza in February 2024, 42 days in September to November 2024, and more recently 49
- [Low FODMAP diet can ease symptoms of those with endometriosis, study finds ](https://anmj.org.au/low-fodmap-diet-can-ease-symptoms-of-those-with-endometriosis-study-finds/) - A low FODMAP diet developed by Monash University researchers for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has been shown to improve gastrointestinal symptoms in women with endometriosis, a new study has revealed. Sixty percent of study participants responded to the Low FODMAP Diet (LFD), compared to 26% who responded to a control diet based on Australian Dietary
- [Physical activity could help combat shift worker fatigue, finds research](https://anmj.org.au/physical-activity-could-help-combat-shift-worker-fatigue-finds-research/) - Physical activity has been proposed as a novel way for shift workers to adapt to changing rosters and be more alert at work. Strategic timing for exercise, light exposure, and sleep, may help with performance, mood and emotional regulation for shift workers, according to Central Queensland University (CQU) sleep research institute researchers. Previous research has targeted
- [Grad Spotlight – Laura](https://anmj.org.au/grad-spotlight-laura/) - Laura Schmidt is a graduate registered nurse based at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide. 1. What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing? My mother has been my greatest inspiration in pursuing nursing. In 2023, she celebrated an incredible milestone – 50 years of dedication to the profession. I’ve always admired her unwavering
- [When nurses breach public trust: The importance of cultivating confidence and care in a conspirative world](https://anmj.org.au/when-nurses-breach-public-trust-the-importance-of-cultivating-confidence-and-care-in-a-conspirative-world/) - In February 2025 two NSW nurses, Ahmad Rashad Nadir and Sarah Abu Lebdeh, had their registration suspended (effective 13 February 2025) after a video recording emerged in which they threatened harm to Israeli patients at the hospital where they worked. The video recording was posted by Israeli influencer Max Veifer’s, the content creator, who had
- [6 things ANMF members should know about artificial intelligence (AI)](https://anmj.org.au/6-things-anmf-members-should-know-about-artificial-intelligence-ai/) - In a rapidly evolving world of technology, AI is presenting us with an increasingly uncertain future. So much of what AI may be able to offer is unknown. Will it improve health outcomes for patients, or pose a risk to their wellbeing? Will the work of nurses and midwives become easier or harder? What is
- [‘Our members are furious’: Queensland nurses and midwives ramp up industrial action](https://anmj.org.au/our-members-are-furious-queensland-nurses-and-midwives-ramp-up-industrial-action/) - Queensland nurses and midwives have ramped up protected industrial action in their fight for improved wages and conditions. Members of the Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) moved to Stage 2 action earlier this week. This includes not undertaking overtime unless there has been a minimum of four hours’ notice, taking the full period of
- [Watch the highlights: Pathology and Diagnostic Imaging in MHR  ](https://anmj.org.au/watch-the-highlights-pathology-and-diagnostic-imaging-in-mhr/) - We’re pleased to share that the Pathology and Diagnostic Imaging results in My Health Record: New legislation webinar recording is now available. In partnership with the Digital Health Agency, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) webinar led by digital experts discussed the new mandatory requirements for uploading of diagnostic and pathology test results to
- [Ahpra puts medicinal cannabis prescribers on notice over poor practice concerns ](https://anmj.org.au/ahpra-puts-medicinal-cannabis-prescribers-on-notice-over-poor-practice-concerns/) - The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) has issued new guidance to improve the safe prescribing of medicinal cannabis amid growing concerns that poor practice is leading to significant patient harm. The national health-practitioner regulator raised the alarm due to red flags in current prescribing data revealing that some practitioners are not safely prescribing medicinal
- [Renewed nursing definitions reflect modern nursing to embolden the profession ](https://anmj.org.au/renewed-nursing-definitions-reflect-modern-nursing-to-embolden-the-profession/) - ICN has unveiled a new, comprehensive definition of nursing that articulates the profession's scope, identity and contribution to global health.
- [Nurses and midwives taking parental leave now eligible for 30% renewal fee rebate](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-taking-parental-leave-now-eligible-for-30-renewal-fee-rebate/) - Practitioners including nurses and midwives who take parental and other types of leave can apply for a 30% rebate on their renewal fees under a new Ahpra relief policy now in effect. The 30% rebate is available for health practitioners who are renewing their registration after taking leave for at least six months on the
- [ICN Congress: Nurses show solidarity for colleagues in conflict zones ](https://anmj.org.au/icn-congress-nurses-show-solidarity-for-colleagues-in-conflict-zones/) - On a global stage, nurses stood together in a moment of solidarity for their colleagues around the world living in terrible conditions of war, conflict and disaster, at the recent International Council of Nurses (ICN) Congress. Following video messages played from nurses in areas of conflict, the 7,000+ nurses from 130 countries attending the ICN
- [FUCHSIA study goes national ](https://anmj.org.au/fuchsia-study-goes-national/) - The ANMF is pleased to announce funding for The FUCHSIA study: Future proofing the midwifery workforce in Australia. There is a nationwide midwifery workforce shortage and increasing reports of midwives considering leaving the profession. A recent survey of 3000 midwives practising in Australia has revealed almost 40% of midwives have regularly thought about leaving the
- [NAIDOC Week 2025: The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy ](https://anmj.org.au/naidoc-week-2025-the-next-generation-strength-vision-legacy/) - This year, NAIDOC Week, held during 6-13 July, marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. Each year during NAIDOC Week everyone is invited to celebrate the histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The 2025 NAIDOC Week theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision
- [Nursing and midwifery students welcome paid prac](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-and-midwifery-students-welcome-paid-prac/) - Nursing and midwifery students across Australia have welcomed the introduction of the $331.65 per week Commonwealth Prac Payment, which came into effect earlier this week. At a press conference at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) yesterday, Education Minister Jason Clare met with students set to benefit from the financial support while undertaking their mandatory
- [Rapid response nursing model of care supports early intervention for at-risk patients ](https://anmj.org.au/rapid-response-nursing-model-of-care-supports-early-intervention-for-at-risk-patients/) - An innovative Rapid Response Nursing (RRN) Model of Care is strengthening hospital-based care at Canberra Hospital by enabling early intervention and enhancing patient safety. Launched in May, the $4 million ACT government-funded nurse-led outreach service – staffed by experienced Medical Emergency Team (MET) nurses – operates 24/7 across Canberra Hospital to identify, assess and respond
- [NSW midwives rally over maternity service cuts](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-midwives-rally-over-maternity-service-cuts/) - NSW midwives working across maternity services at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH) in Camperdown held a snap rally yesterday to draw attention to their grave concerns regarding planned staffing cuts. A review of the major tertiary hospital’s midwifery staffing profile will see up to 15 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions deleted at the Women and Babies
- [Nurses Award wage increase comes into effect](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-award-wage-increase-come-into-effect-on-1-july-2025/) - As previously reported, as a result of the Annual Wage Review, the Expert Panel of the Fair Work Commission announced an increase in the National Minimum Wage and Award rates of 3.5%, effective 1 July 2025. The Expert Panel reviews and determines minimum wages for Award employees each year, to ensure they are fair and
- [TAFE nursing students: Commonwealth Prac Payments now open](https://anmj.org.au/tafe-nursing-students-commonwealth-prac-payments-now-open/) - TAFE nursing students can now apply for the $331.65 per week Commonwealth Prac Payment, introduced to help address placement poverty while undertaking mandatory clinical placements.
- [Latest issue of Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN) out now ](https://anmj.org.au/latest-issue-of-australian-journal-of-advanced-nursing-ajan-out-now/) - Volume 42, Issue 2 of the Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN) is now live. As the official peer-reviewed journal of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), AJAN is committed to publishing high-quality scholarly work that is of critical relevance to nursing and midwifery audiences in professional, clinical, research, education, management, and policy roles.
- [Nurses’ cognitive mental workload: Staff welfare, patient safety and quality care at peril](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-cognitive-mental-workload-staff-welfare-patient-safety-and-quality-care-at-peril/) - Globally, there are risks of unintentional harm to patients due to inadvertent clinical errors, nurses’ burnout contributing to high turnover, and rises in healthcare costs, all threatening already overstretched systems. One crucial but largely overlooked factor contributing to these risks is nurses’ cognitive mental workload inherent in performing their clinical work. Research suggests nurses experience
- [Parents to receive super on paid parental leave from 1 July](https://anmj.org.au/parents-to-receive-super-on-paid-parental-leave-from-1-july/) - Around 200,000 families each year are set to benefit from new laws coming into effect on 1 July to pay superannuation on Commonwealth Paid Parental Leave. The reform, legislated last year, will see the federal government pay 12% super when working parents take leave to care for their babies, helping to narrow the gender super
- [Unlocking new digital tools in practice: leaders in nursing and midwifery discuss](https://anmj.org.au/unlocking-new-digital-tools-in-practice-leaders-in-nursing-and-midwifery-discuss/) - Join us for the latest episode of the ANMF Podcast presented in partnership with the Australian Digital Health Agency. We know that many nurses and midwives see the benefits AI can bring to care outcomes. However, many have concerns about the potential loss of human decision making and skills that we can lose as nurses
- [ANMF (Tasmanian Branch) on track towards net zero](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-tasmanian-branch-on-track-towards-net-zero/) - At the 2022 Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF Tasmanian Branch) Delegates’ Conference, nurse and midwife members challenged the Branch to explore ways to improve its sustainability footprint. Taking the resolution as a “green light” to do more, the Branch, which has under 30 full-time staff working across two offices, one in Hobart and the
- [Greater inclusion for gender and sexually diverse people in Australian blood donation rules](https://anmj.org.au/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
- [How to talk with colleagues about the Gaza conflict](https://anmj.org.au/how-to-talk-with-colleagues-about-the-gaza-conflict/) - The ANMF is amongst many health organisations that have called for a peaceful resolution to the Gaza conflict. The global nursing and midwifery community is mourning the loss of colleagues along with innocent civilians; their deaths are not only a personal tragedy but an affront to our shared values. In line with our commitment to
- [Culturally safe maternity care for Indigenous women: Bridging gaps for health equity](https://anmj.org.au/culturally-safe-maternity-care-for-indigenous-women-bridging-gaps-for-health-equity/) - An international, pan-Indigenous, and cross-cultural research team has examined Indigenous women’s dissatisfaction with birthing experiences across both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. A recently published scoping review includes data from 1,437 women, 36 Elders, 14 fathers and family members, and 91 healthcare professionals, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction with birthing in mainstream maternity hospitals in Australia, Aotearoa
- [Gender affirmation, surrogate leave, among new progressive conditions won during enterprise bargaining](https://anmj.org.au/gender-affirmation-surrogate-leave-among-new-progressive-conditions-won-during-enterprise-bargaining/) - What began in 1970 as the Family Planning Alliance of South Australia continues to lead the way advancing workplace conditions, thanks to an ANMF (SA Branch)-negotiated Enterprise Agreement that has introduced several progressive new provisions. Nurses and midwives at the organisation, now known as the Sexual Health Information Networking and Education South Australia (SHINE SA),
- [The FUCHSIA study goes NATIONAL](https://anmj.org.au/the-fuchsia-study-goes-national/) - The ANMF is pleased to be funding a study called The FUCHSIA study: Future proofing the midwifery workforce in Australia. Not dissimilar to the Victorian FUCHSIA study (report released in 2022), this study aims to gather accurate, up-to-date evidence to map and gain insights into the health and wellbeing of the midwifery workforce, and its
- [Privacy in nursing and midwifery workplaces](https://anmj.org.au/privacy-in-nursing-and-midwifery-workplaces/) - If you are in a public place whilst reading this, particularly if you are in a metropolitan city, chances are you will be sitting in a place where your every move – and word – is being captured by CCTV. Disclaimers may be plastered all over the walls stating that you are giving up any
- [Give peace a chance: Nurses and midwives can play crucial role in fostering global peace in a fractured world ](https://anmj.org.au/give-peace-a-chance-nurses-and-midwives-can-play-crucial-role-in-fostering-global-peace-in-a-fractured-world/) - As trusted frontline health professionals in every corner of the globe, nurses and midwives are uniquely positioned to lead collective international efforts for lasting peace. On top of clinical care, nurses and midwives can play a significant role in helping bridge divides – including cultural, political and social – through their daily advocacy and action.
- [Non-compete clauses and other restraints of trade](https://anmj.org.au/non-compete-clauses-and-other-restraints-of-trade/) - Even to those who follow the political cycle, one of the more unexpected announcements in the Federal Budget was the news that the Albanese Labor Government plans to ban non-compete clauses in employment contracts. Between tax cuts and student debt being slashed, you could have missed this tiny detail. What are restraints of trade? In
- [Prac Payment is here: What nursing and midwifery students need to know ](https://anmj.org.au/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
- [Australia records highest ever global ranking for gender equality](https://anmj.org.au/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
- [How workforce reform may also be good for the planet](https://anmj.org.au/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
- [‘Landmark moment’: Advance copy of RN prescribing standard released](https://anmj.org.au/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.
- [Embracing Forensic Nursing: Bridging Healthcare and Justice](https://anmj.org.au/embracing-forensic-nursing-bridging-healthcare-and-justice/) - As a nurse practitioner, I love working in the unique niche area of forensic nursing. This specialised area allows me to apply clinical nursing skills alongside forensic science principles for patients who experience acute and potentially long-term consequences associated with violence, particularly after sexual assault and or domestic violence assault. This role balances my passion
- [Fight fatigue in nursing and midwifery ](https://anmj.org.au/fight-fatigue-in-nursing-and-midwifery/) - Celeste explains why nurses and midwives should advocate to optimise their roster for better sleep. Managing fatigue is a real challenge when we work stressful rotating shifts in busy pressured environments, but with the right tools and strategies, it’s absolutely possible to get a handle on your fatigue and feel better! Here’s what we can
- [The Tasmanian Government has a 2030 Strong Plan to build a better health system](https://anmj.org.au/the-tasmanian-government-has-a-2030-strong-plan-to-build-a-better-health-system/) - Join the Department of Health today in one of our exciting new opportunities. Tasmania is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family. Join more than 16,000 highly skilled professionals who are dedicated to making a real difference across primary, acute and community care. Our smaller teams mean you can have access to,
- [Financial stress and your mental health    ](https://anmj.org.au/financial-stress-and-your-mental-health/) - A higher cost of living has increased financial hardship for many Australians. Since 2020, interest rates, mortgages and inflation have risen fast, but real wages have gone down [1]. Despite low unemployment, higher living costs are affecting our living standards. This challenging economic climate has seen more people experience financial stress. And increased financial stress
- [A comprehensive pathway for nurses to become midwives at The University of Notre Dame in Melbourne ](https://anmj.org.au/a-comprehensive-pathway-for-nurses-to-become-midwives-at-the-university-of-notre-dame-in-melbourne/) - The need for qualified midwives in Australia continues to grow, as the demand for maternal care services remains strong across the country With a national focus on improving health outcomes for mothers and babies, the profession of midwifery is not only a rewarding career but one that also promises long-term job security. Now, registered nurses
- [When it comes to health and wellbeing, women need to put themselves first more often](https://anmj.org.au/when-it-comes-to-health-and-wellbeing-women-need-to-put-themselves-first-more-often/) - We all know how important it is, but how much time do we spend focusing on our own health? No one will deny that the healthier you are, the better it is for you, your family, your work, and the life you want to lead. When it comes to your super, your health is also
- [8 reasons to take your career in mental health to South Australia](https://anmj.org.au/8-reasons-to-take-your-career-in-mental-health-to-south-australia/) - Want to take the next step in your mental health career or just looking for a change of scenery? Whether you’re just getting started or you’re a seasoned professional, there’s plenty of reasons to take your career in mental health to South Australia. While South Australia may be known for our festivals, wine regions and
- [Aged Care Minister addresses workforce in open letter following delay of new Aged Care Act ](https://anmj.org.au/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](https://anmj.org.au/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
- [Webinar: Pathology and diagnostic imaging results in My Health Record – new legislation](https://anmj.org.au/webinar-pathology-and-diagnostic-imaging-results-in-my-health-record-new-legislation/) - New mandatory requirements for pathology and diagnostic providers to upload test results to My Health Record is the theme for a new digital health webinar. Come join us for this latest webinar, jointly run by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation and the Australian Digital Health Agency as part of their digital health series. Consumer
- [National minimum wage to rise by 3.5%](https://anmj.org.au/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: $0.85 to $24.95 per hour $32.10 to $948 per 38-hour week $1,669.20 to $49,296 per year The increase will mostly benefit part-time and
- [New ANMF Federal Vice President brings nursing and midwifery lens to national leadership team ](https://anmj.org.au/new-anmf-federal-vice-president-brings-nursing-and-midwifery-lens-to-national-leadership-team/) - With a diverse career in midwifery, advanced nursing practice and perinatal mental health, new ANMF Federal Vice President Astrid Tiefholz, from Tasmania, brings a unique voice to the union’s leadership. “It’s important that we have diversity of voices from across the nation. It is really important to me to be able to represent Tasmania and
- [ANMF working to secure future of Healthscope nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-working-to-secure-future-of-healthscope-nurses-and-midwives/) - The ANMF has expressed its extreme disappointment and concern over the financial collapse of Healthscope, particularly its impact on nurses, midwives and patients.
- [Nurses and midwives foster parental trust for improving childhood vaccination](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-foster-parental-trust-for-improving-childhood-vaccination/) - New data from the Australian National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance on vaccination coverage reveals a continuing decline in vaccination rates among Australian children and adolescents since the onset COVID-19 pandemic.1 The drop spans a broad range of vaccines including for whooping cough, diphtheria, tetanus, rotavirus, pneumococcal disease, polio, hepatitis B, multiple strains of
- [A win for the profession and the planet – ICN’s Nursing for Planetary Health and Wellbeing brief](https://anmj.org.au/a-win-for-the-profession-and-the-planet-icns-nursing-for-planetary-health-and-wellbeing-brief/) - At a time when the Earth itself is calling for care, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) has responded with a powerful message: nurses have a vital role to play in healing not just people, but the planet we all share. In its landmark brief, “Nursing for Planetary Health and Wellbeing”, the ICN invites the
- [Queensland nurses and midwives vote to strike ](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-nurses-and-midwives-vote-to-strike/) - More than 96% of Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) members have voted to strike for the first time in decades as they ramp up the fight for improved wages and conditions. QNMU Secretary Sarah Beaman said the strong yes vote in the EB12 Protected Industrial Action (PIA) ballot, which ended on Monday, demonstrated an
- [Australian nurses under-prepared for mass disaster  ](https://anmj.org.au/australian-nurses-under-prepared-for-mass-disaster/) - While having responded to hundreds of disaster events over the last six years, new research suggests Australian nurses still aren’t ready for the impact of catastrophe. Almost one disaster event every 10 days has occurred in Australia since 2019, according to the research led by Charles Darwin University (CDU). A disaster is considered to be
- [Black tea and berries could contribute to healthier ageing ](https://anmj.org.au/black-tea-and-berries-could-contribute-to-healthier-ageing/) - Higher intakes of black tea, berries, citrus fruits and apples could help promote healthy ageing, new research has found. Foods rich in flavonoids could help to lower the risk of key components of unhealthy ageing, including frailty, impaired physical function and poor mental health, according to a collaborative study involving Australian and international researchers. “Our
- [Undergraduate nurse training essential for Australian women’s sexual and reproductive health ](https://anmj.org.au/undergraduate-nurse-training-essential-for-australian-womens-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
- [Student Spotlight – Olivia ](https://anmj.org.au/student-spotlight-olivia/) - Bachelor of Nursing student Olivia Stead is in her second year of nursing at the Adelaide Nursing School, University of Adelaide. 1 What inspired you to choose a career in nursing? I was born with congenital health conditions that have, and continue to, affect me throughout my life. Through these experiences, I have seen and felt the profound
- [Grad Spotlight – Jorja ](https://anmj.org.au/grad-spotlight-jorja/) - Jorja Hudson is a graduate registered nurse based at Northern Sydney LHD. 1 What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing? I was inspired by the nurses I met before starting my own journey – they completely starstruck me. I saw how caring, smart, and compassionate they were, and I just knew I wanted
- [Late fee waived for nursing and midwifery registration renewal until 15 June](https://anmj.org.au/late-fee-waived-for-nursing-and-midwifery-registration-renewal-until-15-june/) - The NMBA has waived late registration renewal fees for nurses and midwives until 15 June following major technical issues with Ahpra's new online portal.
- [National Reconciliation Week 2025: ‘Bridging now to Next’ in truth-telling ](https://anmj.org.au/national-reconciliation-week-2025-bridging-now-to-next-in-truth-telling/) - This year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, Bridging Now to Next, urges us to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us. At a time when Australia faces uncertainty in its reconciliation journey, the National Reconciliation Week (NRW) theme calls on all Australians to step forward together. Fittingly, Australia’s first formal truth-telling process
- [2025 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards: Winners announced ](https://anmj.org.au/2025-hesta-australian-nursing-midwifery-awards-winners-announced/) - A nurse from Victoria, a midwife from the Victoria-NSW border, and a South Australian based nursing and midwifery research centre have scooped this year's awards.
- [How to get the most from your tax return as a nurse or midwife in 2025 ](https://anmj.org.au/how-to-get-the-most-from-your-tax-return-as-a-nurse-or-midwife-in-2025/) - What are some common mistakes that nurses and midwives make when completing their annual tax return? Mark Chapman, H&R Block Director of Tax Communication, shares his tips. Don’t embellish deductions…. Tax time is here and whether you plan to use a professional to complete your return or do it yourself, it’s vital that you claim
- [Nurse and midwife registration renewal closes at the end of May](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-and-midwife-registration-renewal-closes-at-the-end-of-may/) - Nurses and midwives have until 31 May 2025 to renew their annual registration. Before you renew, you must set up your new Ahpra portal, introduced earlier this year, which includes multifactor authentication to protect your personal data and a range of features such as streamlined forms and a personalised dashboard. Click here for a step-by-step
- [NSW nurse practitioners, endorsed midwives allowed to prescribe abortion pills](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-nurse-practitioners-endorsed-midwives-allowed-to-prescribe-abortion-pills/) - Access to abortion in NSW is set to become easier after the state’s parliament yesterday passed a bill enabling nurse practitioners and endorsed midwives to prescribe abortion medication, known as MS-2 Step, for pregnancies up to nine weeks. The legislation, which aims to improve access to this essential healthcare for women in rural and regional
- [ANMF congratulates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on historic election win](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-congratulates-prime-minister-anthony-albanese-on-historic-election-win/) - The ANMF says it looks forward to working with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to continue to deliver improved outcomes in health and aged care, following his historic election win.
- [Nuclear energy in Australia: A nurse's perspective   ](https://anmj.org.au/nuclear-energy-in-australia-a-nurses-perspective/) - After all the budget hype, it is important that the Coalition’s plan to introduce nuclear energy into Australia’s’ energy mix does not get lost in the noise. This plan has ignited widespread debate, with many communities expressing concerns about the potential risks nuclear power poses. The proposal to establish nuclear reactors across the country raises
- [Courage under fire as a nurse leads through a bushfire crisis](https://anmj.org.au/courage-under-fire-as-a-nurse-leads-through-a-bushfire-crisis/) - 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
- [From RN to Nurse Practitioner: Scholarship paves the way for Teagan to improve women's healthcare ](https://anmj.org.au/from-rn-to-nurse-practitioner-scholarship-paves-the-way-for-teagan-to-improve-womens-healthcare/) - Despite over 14 years of experience working across a range of healthcare settings, Tasmanian registered nurse and midwife Teagan Atkins often encounters situations where she is unable to work to her full scope of practice. One such example is in her current role as the lead triage nurse at Medicare Urgent Clinics in Hobart and
- [State of the World’s Nursing 2025 report: Inequities threaten global health goals](https://anmj.org.au/state-of-the-worlds-nursing-2025-report-inequities-threaten-global-health-goals/) - While the global nursing workforce continues to grow, widespread disparities in the availability of nurses remain across regions and countries, exacerbating inequities, according to the State of the World’s Nursing 2025 report, released on International Nurses Day. Publishedby the World Health Organization (WHO) and International Council of Nurses (ICN) the report provides the latest comprehensive and up-to-date
- [Landmark report calls for urgent action to fix global nurse staffing crisis](https://anmj.org.au/landmark-report-calls-for-urgent-action-to-fix-global-nurse-staffing-crisis/) - Understaffing is endangering both nurses and patients and undermining healthcare quality, a groundbreaking new report from Global Nurses United (GNU) has revealed. The worldwide nurse staffing crisis affects regions differently – with the Global North experiencing workforce exodus due to poor conditions while the Global South struggles with severe resource limitations, according to the report.
- [International Nurses Day 2025: Celebrating the life-changing impact of care  ](https://anmj.org.au/international-nurses-day-2025-celebrating-the-life-changing-impact-of-care/) - A conversation with Kerry Patford, Chief Nurse of the McGrath Foundation, this International Nurses Day. Ahead of International Nurses Day, Kerry Patford, Chief Nurse of the McGrath Foundation, whose 30-year plus career epitomises the enduring spirit of nursing, talks with the ANMJ. Kerry has been with the McGrath Foundation since 2009, serving as Chief Nurse
- [Celebrating International Nurses Day](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-international-nurses-day-2/) - Every year, we take time to acknowledge and celebrate the incredible contributions of nurses around the world. On International Nurses Day (12 May), we recognise the dedication, skill, and compassion of these essential professionals who provide care when it is needed most. As we mark this important day, we extend our gratitude to all nurses
- [Navigating natural disasters: Midwives are critical in every crisis ](https://anmj.org.au/navigating-natural-disasters-midwives-are-critical-in-every-crisis/) - This year’s theme for International Day of the Midwife on 5 May is Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis. Midwives are trusted first responders within their communities who can prepare health systems for any crisis. For midwives to adequately respond, they must also ensure they are safe and are equipped with the training, tools, and resources
- [A nurse's experience managing extreme weather challenges in remote Australia ](https://anmj.org.au/a-nurses-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
- [The political parties supporting Australia’s nurses and midwives  ](https://anmj.org.au/the-political-parties-supporting-australias-nurses-and-midwives/) - The ANMF reveals the political parties standing with nurses and midwives at this Saturday's federal election.
- [Nurse led success stories - Increased access by Tasmanian NP](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-led-success-stories-increased-access-by-tasmanian-np/) - Kerrie Duggan is the co-owner, managing director, and a nurse practitioner at Cygnet Family Practice in Tasmania’s Huon Valley. She stepped in as co-owner with the support of philanthropic investors to save the practice after the previous owner decided to close it. Now a thriving multidisciplinary clinic, Cygnet Family Practice has a team of over
- [Nurse led success story - Accessible, inclusive healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-led-success-story-accessible-inclusive-healthcare/) - Nurse Practitioner Toni Slotnes-O’Brien works at the University of South Australia City West Health Clinic and has developed a nurse practitioner-led transgender and gender diverse clinic for people aged 18 years and over. The aim of the clinic in the primary care setting is to provide quality, safe, and inclusive healthcare for TGD people. Statistics
- [Coalition’s vaping plan risks dismantling protections for young people](https://anmj.org.au/coalitions-vaping-plan-risks-dismantling-protections-for-young-people/) - The Liberal-National Coalition’s plan to raise revenue from vape taxation will undo years of public health progress, warns the public health community. The public health community has called on the Coalition to retract its plan, arguing it will see the legalisation of vape sales through retail outlets and dramatically increase access to vapes by young
- [Coalition to slash paid clinical placements for student nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/coalition-to-slash-paid-clinical-placements-for-student-nurses-and-midwives/) - A $331 per week ‘Prac Payment’ to support student nurses and midwives during clinical placements, set to come into effect in July, would be axed under a Dutton government, costings released just two days out from the federal election have revealed. A range of other cuts, aimed at improving the nation’s budget bottom line, include
- [Celebrating International Day of the Midwife](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-international-day-of-the-midwife/) - Every year, we take time to acknowledge and celebrate the incredible contributions of midwives around the world. On International Day of the Midwife (5 May) we recognise the dedication, skill, and compassion of these essential professionals who provide care when it is needed most. As we mark this important day, we extend our gratitude to
- [Finalists announced for 2025 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards](https://anmj.org.au/finalists-announced-for-2025-hesta-australian-nursing-midwifery-awards/) - A Midwifery Group Practice pioneer and a NSW nurse who helped reduce mental health stigma are among nine finalists named.
- [No more duplication: Labor commits to single National Employment Check for nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/no-more-duplication-labor-commits-to-single-national-employment-check-for-nurses-and-midwives/) - The Albanese Labor Government has committed to streamlining national screening checks for nurses and midwives — a move that will cut red tape, save money, and make it easier for nurses and midwives to do their jobs. In a letter to the ANMF, Labor pledged to work with state and territory governments to develop a
- [Albanese Labor Government commits to expanding and standardising RUSON/M Employment models if re-elected](https://anmj.org.au/albanese-labor-government-commits-to-expanding-and-standardising-ruson-m-employment-models-if-re-elected/) - The Albanese Labor Government has committed to progressing scoping work to provide greater access to and consistency to the Registered Undergraduate Student of Nursing/Midwifery (RUSON/M) employment models if elected. The successful model launched in Victoria in 2016 was extended to midwives in 2020, following strong advocacy by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery (ANMF Victorian Branch).
- [Federal Labor pledges to address paid parental leave gap for grieving parents ](https://anmj.org.au/federal-labor-pledges-to-address-paid-parental-leave-gap-for-grieving-parents/) - A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will legislate to guarantee that working parents dealing with stillbirth and early infant death can continue to access their employer-paid paid parental leave (PPL). The action comes off the back of advocacy from Priya’s parents who brought attention to an issue not adequately addressed in existing workplace laws. Priya was
- [Coalition’s plan to reinstate childcare subsidy activity test slammed ](https://anmj.org.au/coalitions-plan-to-reinstate-childcare-subsidy-activity-test-slammed/) - The Coalition’s plan if elected, to reinstate the abolished childcare subsidy Activity Test has been slammed as poor policy that would see Australian parents lose guaranteed subsidised access to childcare. Reinstatement of the Activity Test could set Australian families back by restricting over 126,000 children, mostly from vulnerable backgrounds from accessing early learning. The Activity
- [Ending nuclear weapons, before they end us ](https://anmj.org.au/ending-nuclear-weapons-before-they-end-us/) - This May, the World Health Assembly (WHA) will vote on re-establishing a mandate for the World Health Organization (WHO) to address the health consequences of nuclear weapons and war (1). Health professionals and their associations should urge their governments to support such a mandate and support the new UN comprehensive study on the effects of
- [Burnout before the beginning: Addressing the mental health crisis among Australia's nursing students ](https://anmj.org.au/burnout-before-the-beginning-addressing-the-mental-health-crisis-among-australias-nursing-students/) - Australian health profession students are experiencing alarming rates of psychological distress. The Problem: Fragile Foundations in the Next Generation of Caregivers National data has shown that nursing students face disproportionately high levels of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to their peers. 1,2 The contributing factors to this emotional burden are significant and multifactorial and is
- [Labor pledges 30% off the price of batteries in bid to slash energy bills](https://anmj.org.au/labor-pledges-30-off-the-price-of-batteries-in-bid-to-slash-energy-bills/) - The federal government will reduce the cost of installing a typical home battery by 30% from 1 July 2025, if re-elected.
- [Subsidised childcare to ease cost-of-living for nurses and midwives ](https://anmj.org.au/subsidised-childcare-to-ease-cost-of-living-for-nurses-and-midwives/) - Naomi Riley is in her 11th year of having children under five and juggling part-time work with paid and unpaid childcare. “My youngest is in two days of kindergarten a week that is fully funded whereas my husband and I paid for our two girls to go to kindergarten and childcare,” said Naomi, a midwife
- [A midwife’s experience in frontline care during a flood emergency](https://anmj.org.au/a-midwifes-experience-in-frontline-care-during-a-flood-emergency/) - 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
- [Skillset and preparedness resource for rural and remote: A research project](https://anmj.org.au/skillset-and-preparedness-resource-for-rural-and-remote-a-research-project/) - A Queensland rural and remote nurse is undertaking research to help establish the essential skills required for all nurses new to rural and remote to help in their preparedness, along with support. “I’m hoping the research will support new RNs to stay. A lot of metropolitan nurses, post Covid have decided to get out of
- [Unlocking potential: Rethinking how we deliver care](https://anmj.org.au/unlocking-potential-rethinking-how-we-deliver-care/) - Access to essential healthcare is increasingly challenging, especially in rural and remote areas where GP shortages are leaving communities without vital medical services. By removing outdated restrictions and regulatory barriers that prevent nurses, midwives, and other healthcare professionals from working to their full scope of practice, could bridge critical gaps in care. This shift along
- [Shaping the future of care - ANMF priorities 2025: Nursing and midwifery workforce reform](https://anmj.org.au/shaping-the-future-of-care-anmf-priorities-2025-nursing-and-midwifery-workforce-reform/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is focused on driving meaningful change in 2025 to ensure better conditions for nurses, midwives, carers, students and to meet the health and aged care needs of the community Recognising the critical milestones we have already achieved like wage increases and mandated care minutes, we know progress is
- [ICN President Dr Pamela Cipriano confident about nurses’ power to change the world](https://anmj.org.au/icn-president-dr-pamela-cipriano-confident-about-nurses-power-to-change-the-world/) - Ahead of the 2025 ICN Congress, President Dr Pamela Cipriano sat down with the ANMJ to discuss the event and the critical global challenges facing the nursing profession.
- [Digital health lab: promising solutions for nursing and midwifery care  ](https://anmj.org.au/digital-health-lab-promising-solutions-for-nursing-and-midwifery-care/) - A newly created digital health lab will enable the testing of new projects including those that will benefit the nursing and midwifery professions. Accelerating the pace of digital innovation will be critical to improving outcomes for ageing Australians, according to Dr Alison Craswell, who will lead the University of the Sunshine Coast’s (UniSC) new Digital
- [Grad Spotlight – Alex      ](https://anmj.org.au/grad-spotlight-alex/) - Alex White is a graduate registered nurse at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne 1 What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing? My passion for helping people in their time of need inspired me to start nursing. It is incredibly rewarding to work in a nursing team where we all strive together to achieve the
- [Can an introvert survive in the world of nursing academia?](https://anmj.org.au/can-an-introvert-survive-in-the-world-of-nursing-academia/) - Are you seen as quiet, reserved, and reflective? Or are you perceived to be distant, withdrawn, reluctant to engage in activities with a room full of people and therefore not considered a ‘team player.’ Do people see you as someone to be tolerated or do they see you at all? Do opportunities bypass you because
- [Aged care pay rises help ease cost-of-living pressures](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-pay-rises-help-ease-cost-of-living-pressures/) - NSW AIN Marta is among thousands of aged care workers across Australia experiencing the direct benefits of recent wage increases flowing through the sector.
- [‘Essential healthcare’: Health organisations call for equitable and improved access to abortion](https://anmj.org.au/essential-healthcare-health-organisations-call-for-equitable-and-improved-access-to-abortion/) - About one in three Australian women live in regions where no local GP provides medical abortion, while many public hospitals that provide maternity and women’s health services do not provide abortion care. These significant barriers to abortion access have driven 40 of the country’s health and medical organisations, including the ANMF, to today call on
- [ANMF backs Fair Work investigation into 20 aged care providers](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-backs-fair-work-investigation-into-20-aged-care-providers/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has welcomed the Fair Work Ombudsman’s targeted investigations into 20 aged care providers across the country. The FWO last week revealed it is investigating 20 organisations – a mix of residential aged care providers, home care organisations, and digital platforms that provide home care workers – to ensure
- [Radio silence: Australia needs urgent answers on nuclear](https://anmj.org.au/australia-needs-answers-on-nuclear/) - The Coalition’s controversial nuclear proposal has taken a backseat in recent weeks, and many Australians are beginning to wonder: what is going on? Not long ago, the federal Opposition was positioning nuclear energy as its solution for decarbonising Australia’s energy grid. Nuclear was promised to be modern, reliable, and safe. But less than a month
- [Kids in chronic pain: A neglected issue](https://anmj.org.au/kids-in-chronic-pain-a-neglected-issue/) - Chronic pain in children is a significant yet under recognised global public health problem, with prevalence studies estimating that between 11% and 38% (mean 20.8%) of children live with chronic pain (pain lasting longer than three months).1,2 The prevalence of chronic paediatric pain in Australia mirrors these statistics, with Chronic Pain Australia (CPA) concurring that
- [Midwifery Endorsement – not just for privately practising midwives](https://anmj.org.au/midwifery-endorsement-not-just-for-privately-practising-midwives/) - Since 2010, women and people giving birth have been able to access Medicare rebates for midwifery services, and some Medicare-funded pathology and radiology services provided by eligible midwives. To be eligible to apply for a Medicare provider number, midwives must meet certain requirements as articulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Midwives
- [Calling operating room nurses: What does your post-pandemic nursing practice look like? ](https://anmj.org.au/calling-operating-room-nurses-what-does-your-post-pandemic-nursing-practice-look-like/) - How has your nursing practice changed in the operating room since the COVID-19 pandemic? What are your expectations for the future of perioperative nursing? A nationwide survey conducted by Monash University researchers wants to hear from you. The aim of the research is to explore Australian operating room nurses’ working conditions and nursing practices in
- [Government invests in more nurses and midwives with planned hospital upgrades](https://anmj.org.au/government-invests-in-more-nurses-and-hospital-upgrades-to-improve-healthcare-access/) - The Albanese Labor Government has pledged hundreds of millions to expand major public hospitals in Western Australia and South Australia in a bid to improve healthcare access and increase the number of highly skilled health workers, including nurses and midwives, to meet growing demand. The federal government today announced it will invest $150 million, matched
- [Women’s health gains impact female-dominated professions ](https://anmj.org.au/womens-health-gains-impact-female-dominated-profession/) - For predominantly female professions, recent gains under Federal Labor for women’s health means more affordable reproductive health for nurses and midwives, with further commitments made by the Albanese Government if re-elected. For 55-year old registered nurse Allison, menopause was instrumental in her resignation from the profession. Experiencing intense itching, severe mind fog, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety,
- [Budget 2025: Wins for nurses, midwives and carers](https://anmj.org.au/budget-2025-wins-for-nurses-midwives-and-carers/) - The ANMF has welcomes prioritised funding in this year's Budget for health and aged care, including $2.6 billion for pay rises for aged care nurses.
- [Nursing and midwifery peaks launch 7-point plan for immediate effective health reform](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-and-midwifery-peaks-launch-7-point-plan-for-immediate-effective-health-reform/) - Australia's peak nursing and midwifery groups are calling on the major parties at this federal election to commit to immediate and effective health reform.
- [Revisiting nephrology nurse training](https://anmj.org.au/revisiting-nephrology-nurse-training/) - Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Australia affects one in 10 people over the age of 18.1,2 There has been a 30% growth in people receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy (KRT) in the last decade3 for which specialist nursing care is required. Demand for nephrology nurses is increasing aligning with the increased case load and globally there
- [Nurses and midwives’ vital role in blood borne virus testing](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-vital-role-in-blood-borne-virus-testing/) - Blood borne virus (BBV) testing in the healthcare setting is often initiated by nursing and midwifery staff, including infection prevention and control (IPC) nurses and hospital coordinators for the management of occupational exposure incidents, midwives for antenatal screening, and nurses throughout diverse community settings including community, correctional, refugee and sexual health settings.1 Nurses and midwives
- [2025 Federal Election: Climate action at the forefront as parties face pressure to address Australia’s carbon footprint](https://anmj.org.au/2025-federal-election-climate-action-at-the-forefront-as-parties-face-pressure-to-address-australias-carbon-footprint/) - As the 2025 federal election approaches, voters are seeking strong commitment on climate change action that reduces the nation’s carbon footprint and accelerates the transition to green energy and sustainable practices. Clear signs of climate change, such as the rise and intensity of extreme weather events like bushfires and heatwaves, impacts many aspects of daily
- [How fee-free TAFE enabled Leanne to pursue her nursing dream  ](https://anmj.org.au/how-fee-free-tafe-enabled-leanne-to-pursue-her-nursing-dream/) - Leanne Simpson was empowered to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse thanks to fee-free TAFE.
- [Victorian nurses and midwives stand in solidarity with healthcare workers in Palestine](https://anmj.org.au/victorian-nurses-and-midwives-stand-in-solidarity-with-healthcare-workers-in-palestine/) - Since December 2023, a committed group of Victorian nurses and midwives has gathered every Sunday in Melbourne to protest in solidarity with Palestinian healthcare workers impacted by the ongoing destruction in Gaza. Tragically, more than 1,200 healthcare workers in Palestine have lost their lives, and over 384 are currently illegally detained in Israeli prisons. The
- [PBS-listed medicines to cost no more than $25 a script](https://anmj.org.au/pbs-listed-medicines-to-cost-no-more-than-25-a-script/) - A re-elected Albanese Government will further reduce the cost of PBS-listed medicines, ensuring that Australians pay no more than $25 a script. Announced today, the $689 million cost-of-living measure, which will be part of Labor’s budget next week, would see four out of five PBS-listed medicines become cheaper, starting from January 2026. Pensioners and concession
- [Call for international nurses or midwives working in Australia to take part in study](https://anmj.org.au/call-for-international-nurses-or-midwives-working-in-australia-to-take-part-in-study/) - Are you an international/overseas nurse or midwife working in Australia? Researchers want to hear from you. Ransford Akrong, a PhD researcher at the University of Huddersfield, is leading a cross-country comparison study exploring international nurses’ and midwives’ experiences of career progression and retention in the UK and Australia. The study is aiming to better understand
- [Colostrum alternative to formula feeding in hospital](https://anmj.org.au/colostrum-alternative-to-formula-feeding-in-hospital/) - Antenatal colostrum expression is on the rise, with Western Australian research showing that around half of pregnant mums in Perth are giving it a go. Antenatal colostrum expression (ACE) involves hand expressing of colostrum in the last few weeks of pregnancy. Any colostrum that can be expressed can be stored and frozen and used in
- [ICN forms new alliance for students and early career nurses](https://anmj.org.au/icn-forms-new-alliance-for-students-and-early-career-nurses/) - An innovative new ICN body representing student and early career nurses aimed at amplifying their voices and increasing their input on policy has been established by the International Council of Nurses. ICN Senior Policy Advisor Erica Burton has been leading this work since 2017, including development of the strategy on how to further engage SECNs
- [Simulation expansion in midwifery consolidates skills for practice](https://anmj.org.au/simulation-expansion-in-midwifery-consolidates-skills-for-practice/) - An expansion of Edith Cowan University Ward for a Day initiative for midwifery students in Western Australia follows a $500,000 investment in new equipment including high fidelity simulated birthing mannequins. ECU’s School of Nursing and Midwifery immersive practice ward-based simulation builds on its existing program, which places nursing students in real-world scenarios to assist their
- [More affordable contraceptive, endometriosis and IVF treatment welcomed](https://anmj.org.au/more-affordable-contraceptive-endometriosis-and-ivf-treatment-welcomed/) - New PBS listings have been welcomed as a major step forward in providing much-needed financial relief for women living with endometriosis, as well as those undergoing fertility treatments and using contraceptive methods. Thousands of women are expected to benefit from cheaper contraceptive and fertility treatment with the federal government announcing further commitment to women’s health
- [From graduate nurse to CEO: the drive to make a difference ](https://anmj.org.au/from-graduate-nurse-to-ceo-the-drive-to-make-a-difference/) - Adeney Private Hospital in Kew, Melbourne offering no out-of-pocket costs for eligible patients insured with participating health funds opened its doors this week. At the helm CEO and registered nurse Louise O’Connor, talks to the ANMJ. “I said to the ANUMs and the nurse managers, ‘you need to just stop and appreciate what you’re doing
- [Nurse CEO leads first private hospital with no out-of-pocket costs ](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-ceo-leads-first-private-hospital-with-no-out-of-pocket-costs/) - Australia’s only private hospital offering no out-of-pocket costs to eligible patients insured with participating health funds officially opened its doors this week. Groundbreaking agreements with Medibank and other funds mean that eligible members will not be charged out-of-pocket costs during their hospital stay at the new Adeney Private Hospital in Kew, Melbourne. Out-of-pocket costs for
- [Voices of hope: How the RMH Scrub Choir became a lifeline during COVID-19 and beyond ](https://anmj.org.au/voices-of-hope-how-the-rmh-scrub-choir-became-a-lifeline-during-covid-19-and-beyond/) - The Royal Melbourne Hospital’s Scrub Choir went viral during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic with their poignant renditions of classics like “I’ll Stand by You”. A few years later, they continue to inspire. The choir grew serendipitously from an internal bid to boost wellbeing and solidarity as the pandemic began to take hold in
- [Reducing emergency transfers from nursing homes](https://anmj.org.au/reducing-emergency-transfers-from-nursing-homes/) - Despite recent reforms that have taken effect in Australian nursing homes, including the requirement for 24/7 registered nurse (RN) presence and mandated direct care minutes, high rates of transfers from nursing homes to emergency departments (ED) or hospitals persist. Background While some transfers may be necessary, expected, or unavoidable, transfers are occurring at rates far
- [Government commits to opening 50 new Medicare urgent care clinics](https://anmj.org.au/government-commits-to-opening-50-new-medicare-urgent-care-clinics/) - The federal government has pledged to invest $644 million to open an additional 50 free Medicare urgent care clinics across the country.
- [‘More bags of IV fluid’: Government injects $20 million to shore up local supply](https://anmj.org.au/more-bags-of-iv-fluid-government-injects-20-million-to-shore-up-local-supply/) - The federal government will invest $20 million to help Australia’s only local manufacturer of IV fluids expand its operations to shore up the country’s supply of the critical hospital medicine. Since 2023, Australia, along with hospitals worldwide, has experienced a shortage of intravenous (IV) fluids due to increased demand, manufacturing issues, and global supply chain
- [Government invests $28 million to build new nurses and midwives academy at Epworth Hospital](https://anmj.org.au/government-invests-28-million-to-build-new-nurses-and-midwives-academy-at-epworth-hospital/) - 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
- [Labor’s $8.5 billion Medicare boost to deliver 400 more nursing and midwifery scholarships and bulk-billing for all Australians](https://anmj.org.au/labors-8-5-billion-medicare-boost-to-deliver-400-more-nursing-and-midwifery-scholarships-and-bulk-billing-for-all-australians/) - A re-elected Albanese Government will inject $8.5 billion into Medicare to give all Australians access to bulk-billing.
- [Nearly 3 in 4 of all employers have a gender pay gap favouring men, new data shows](https://anmj.org.au/nearly-3-in-4-of-all-employers-have-a-gender-pay-gap-favouring-men-new-data-shows/) - Nearly three out of four of all employers in Australia have a gender pay gap that favours men, new analysis from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) has found. High-paying employers are most likely to have a gender pay gap in favour of men and a larger gender pay gap. Just 1 in 5 (21%)
- [Nurse-led clinics are a valuable service that should be promoted, finds study     ](https://anmj.org.au/advanced-practice-nurses-need-more-support-to-run-nurse-led-clinics/) - Advanced practice nurses running nurse-led clinics across Australia need greater support from all levels to overcome barriers such as overwhelming workloads, new research has revealed. Published in the latest edition of the Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN), the study explored the experiences and perceptions of 10 advanced practice nurses who have established and run
- [Hundreds of thousands of workers secure permanent jobs thanks to IR reforms](https://anmj.org.au/hundreds-of-thousands-of-workers-secure-permanent-jobs-thanks-to-ir-reforms/) - Two hundred and thirty thousand workers are now in permanent jobs thanks to the Albanese Government’s Closing Loopholes IR reforms, according to a new report released by the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) today. The report reveals 9 in 10 of all new jobs created during this government’s term have been permanent, reducing the
- [Regular eye tests could help identify risk of dementia](https://anmj.org.au/regular-eye-tests-could-help-identify-risk-of-dementia/) - Regular vision tests may help predict the risk of developing dementia with research showing a link between deterioration in vision and cognitive decline. Dementia rates are rapidly increasing in Australia and globally, with vision problems contributing to an estimated 4.7% of the burden. The research, conducted by Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), highlights the importance of
- [Nurses and midwives highlight challenges in using electronic medical records (EMRs)](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-highlight-challenges-in-using-electronic-medical-records-emrs/) - Health services should prioritise gaining a deeper understanding of the experiences of nurses and midwives in using electronic medical records (EMRs). By doing so, they can develop user-friendly systems which reduce stress and burnout and enhance clinical and safety outcomes, new research has found. The study, published in the September–November 2024 issue of the Australian
- [Virtual reality gives older people access to memories](https://anmj.org.au/virtual-reality-gives-older-people-access-to-memories/) - A Western Australian project is using virtual reality (VR) in residential aged care for residents to engage with memories and familiar surroundings in the digital space. Edith Cowan University has partnered with Western Australia creative artists to develop visual content on areas where residents from a residential care home grew up and lived, incorporating their
- [Addressing workplace violence for student nurses and clinical facilitators](https://anmj.org.au/addressing-workplace-violence-for-student-nurses-and-clinical-facilitators/) - Systemic change and a collaborative approach between universities and healthcare institutions is needed to combat workplace violence, research shows. Increasing incidences of violence are leading to long term consequences for students, their supervisors, and the profession, according to two new studies. Published in the Journal of Professional Nursing and Nursing Open, the two studies interviewed
- [Brick by brick: LEGO helps bridge gap between midwifery and medical students](https://anmj.org.au/brick-by-brick-lego-helps-bridge-gap-between-midwifery-and-medical-students/) - Normally a staple of the childhood toybox, new research has found LEGO bricks can be an effective ice breaker between midwifery and medical students. Led by midwifery teaching specialists Liz McNeill from Flinders University and Dr Lyn Gum from the University of South Australia, the study found using the ubiquitous coloured blocks made the students
- [Student spotlight – Eve](https://anmj.org.au/student-spotlight-eve/) - Bachelor of Nursing student Eve McKenzie-McHarg is in her second year of study at La Trobe University’s Albury-Wodonga campus. 1. What inspired you to choose a career in nursing? I chose to study nursing because I have a deep passion for helping others and making a real difference in people’s lives. The ability to directly impact someone’s well-being,
- [Reducing the systemic use of restraints in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/reducing-the-systemic-use-of-restraints-in-aged-care/) - Nurse practitioners with aged care expertise and specialist mental health nurses may help reduce the systemic use of restraints in residential aged care. Systemic issues within residential aged care are enabling the use of restraints, despite the practice being illegal in any other age group, highlights CQUniversity research. “Older people appear to have less rights
- [What can your poo reveal about your heart health?](https://anmj.org.au/what-can-your-poo-reveal-about-your-heart-health/) - Human and microbial proteins found in poo could help doctors detect a long-term risk of deadly cardiovascular conditions in otherwise healthy patients, avoiding the need for costly and invasive diagnostic procedures, according to new research. A recent study from Monash University linked the presence of certain faecal proteins to conditions like heart failure and found
- [Government pledges $573 million for women’s health, including subsidised contraceptives and more menopause support](https://anmj.org.au/government-pledges-573-million-for-womens-health-including-subsidised-contraceptives-and-more-menopause-support/) - Women will save hundreds of dollars a year thanks to a $573 million government package aimed at supporting women's health.
- [Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nurses experience harmful racism in workplaces](https://anmj.org.au/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-nurses-experience-harmful-racism-in-workplaces/) - Racism is a persistent and damaging issue that negatively affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nurses’ careers, physical and mental health, and overall well-being. Despite being widespread and persistent in healthcare and in nursing, little research attention and wider acknowledgement has been focussed on this damaging and hateful phenomenon that is driving First Nations nurses
- [Detecting hidden concussion in intimate partner violence](https://anmj.org.au/detecting-hidden-concussion-in-intimate-partner-violence/) - For the first time, researchers have used blood tests to identify concussion caused by intimate partner violence (IPV) in patients, including some who also experienced non-fatal strangulation. It is hoped the findings may help inform clinical care and management by health professionals of patients who present with IPV in future. The Monash University-led study in
- [Victoria improves nurse and midwife to patient ratios ](https://anmj.org.au/victoria-improves-nurse-and-midwife-to-patient-ratios/) - Victoria’s landmark nurse and midwife-to-patient ratios are set to be expanded. Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas introduced amendments to the Safe Patient Care (Nurse to Patient and Midwife to Patient Ratios) Act into parliament earlier this week, paving the way for the improvements. If passed, the new ratios will deliver: 1:1 nurse to occupied bed ratio
- [The potential health impacts of AUKUS on health workers](https://anmj.org.au/the-potential-health-impacts-of-aukus-on-health-workers/) - There are clear health impacts for health workers who may be exposed to radiation from AUKUS nuclear submarines. These include exposure to radioactive waste, a radiation incident or accident, or possibly a terrorist attack. Healthcare workers must be among the first responders in a radiation incident. They must be well-versed in radiation protection and aware
- [‘No longer a death sentence’: Meet Liz Crock, HIV Nurse Practitioner and NP of the Year](https://anmj.org.au/no-longer-a-death-sentence-meet-liz-crock-hiv-nurse-practitioner-and-np-of-the-year/) - Three decades since the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Australia, Nurse Practitioner Liz Crock is as passionate as ever about improving access to effective treatment and reducing stigma.
- [Collaborative arrangements abolished, enabling NPs and endorsed midwives to work to full scope](https://anmj.org.au/collaborative-arrangements-abolished-enabling-nps-and-endorsed-midwives-to-work-to-full-scope/) - Nurse Practitioners and Endorsed Midwives will finally be able to work to their full scope of practice following the removal of restrictive 'collaborative arrangements'.
- [Extra one-off $1.7 billion funding boost for public hospitals](https://anmj.org.au/extra-one-off-1-7-billion-funding-boost-for-public-hospitals/) - Australia’s public hospitals are set to receive an additional $1.7 billion in funding during the next financial year, aimed at reducing waiting lists, cutting emergency room wait times, and managing ramping, the federal government revealed on Wednesday. The one-year deal will boost the Albanese Government’s spend on state-run public hospitals by 12%, raising the total
- [Explainer: Wage increases for aged care nurses to take effect in March](https://anmj.org.au/explainer-wage-increases-for-aged-care-nurses-to-take-effect-in-march/) - On 20 December 2024 the Fair Work Commission (FWC) published its final determination in the work value case for nurses working in residential and home care aged care. Work value background This is great news for all ENs and RNs working in aged care, as the Determination marks the final outcome of the aged care
- [Labor’s IR reforms boost wages, review finds](https://anmj.org.au/labors-ir-reforms-boost-wages-review-finds/) - An independent review of the Albanese Government’s landmark Secure Jobs Better Pay reforms has found the new laws have successfully increased wages. The draft review, conducted by Emeritus Professor Mark Bray and Professor Alison Preston, found early evidence that the hard-won reforms are achieving the federal government’s aim of lifting wages, improving job security and
- [Rural, regional and remote scholarships for NSW nursing students and new graduates now open   ](https://anmj.org.au/rural-regional-and-remote-scholarships-for-nsw-nursing-students-and-new-graduates-now-open/) - NSW nursing students and new graduates living in or looking to work in rural, regional and remote areas are encouraged to apply for new scholarships announced today. Nine types of scholarships are now open in the first round of the NSW Rural and Regional Health Career Scholarships Program for 2025, which supports students of nursing,
- [Nurses and midwives invited to take part in sleep study](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-invited-to-take-part-in-sleep-study/) - Sleep is essential for health and wellbeing. However, many nurses and midwives struggle to achieve good sleep and sometimes consider poor sleep an inevitable part of the professions. Researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) are collecting information about supports, strategies, policies and programs that nurses and midwives have tried, would like and/or are
- [Gender inclusive education needed to support new national action plan for health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people](https://anmj.org.au/national-action-plan-recognises-lgbtiqa-people-as-priority-population/) - Australia’s first national action plan for the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people along with investment of $15.5 million has been hailed as long overdue by clinicians working in the field. LGBTIQA+ people are twice as likely to experience poor health, which research shows is directly related to experiences of stigma, prejudice, discrimination and abuse
- [Funding extended to support more nursing students with clinical placements in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/funding-extended-to-support-more-nursing-students-with-clinical-placements-in-aged-care/) - The federal government is investing an extra $18.4 million to support more nursing students to experience high-quality clinical placements in aged care. The renewed funding for the successful Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placements Program will enable up to 8,000 more nursing students to develop practical skills in the care of older people under the guidance
- [Mental health recovery camp: A student consumer partnership ](https://anmj.org.au/mental-health-recovery-camp-a-student-consumer-partnership/) - The first of its kind in Australia and the world, mental health recovery camps for undergraduate nurses have received awards since their inception in 2012. Natalie Dragon talks with co-founder Professor Lorna Moxham on the growing success and why the program should be funded nationally. “It’s a clinical placement, but it’s also a psychosocial intervention
- [Strength-based cultural care improves health outcomes for Aboriginal mothers and babies  ](https://anmj.org.au/strength-based-cultural-care-improves-health-outcomes-for-aboriginal-mothers-and-babies/) - Aboriginal women have been mothering for more than 65,000 years, yet there is still a vast underrepresentation of Aboriginal health clinicians in the perinatal sector. This has run-on effects, with Aboriginal mothers struggling to find culturally safe healthcare during the most crucial years of their babies’ lives. Bridgette Kelly and Trish Ratajczak from Murdoch University’s Ngangk
- [Regulator cracks down on aged care providers failing to meet care minutes   ](https://anmj.org.au/regulator-cracks-down-on-aged-care-providers-failing-to-meet-care-minutes/) - Regulatory action is being taken against residential aged care providers that have persistently failed to meet their mandatory care minute targets.
- [Overseas nurses fast-tracked to work in Australia](https://anmj.org.au/overseas-nurses-fast-tracked-to-work-in-australia/) - The registration process for internationally qualified registered nurses from countries including the United Kingdom and United States wanting to work in Australia will be fast-tracked in a bid to tackle the country’s workforce issues. The quicker assessment and registration process, enabled after Health Ministers last September approved a new registration standard: general registration for internationally
- [Medicare award recognises nurse practitioner](https://anmj.org.au/medicare-award-recognises-nurse-practitioner/) - Tasmanian nurse practitioner and general practice co-owner and manager Kerrie Duggan was one of 20 healthcare professionals awarded a 2024 Medicare Champion last November. She shares her journey with the ANMJ on the anniversary of Medicare. Marking Medicare’s 40th anniversary in 2024, the Australian government launched the Stronger Medicare Awards to recognise outstanding clinicians, multidisciplinary
- [Shaping the future of care - ANMF priorities 2025: Gender equity: Central to the work of unions](https://anmj.org.au/shaping-the-future-of-care-anmf-priorities-2025-gender-equity-central-to-the-work-of-unions/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is focused on driving meaningful change in 2025 to ensure better conditions for nurses, midwives, carers, students and to meet the health and aged care needs of the community Recognising the critical milestones we have already achieved like wage increases and mandated care minutes, we know progress is
- [Book Review: 'Zoe and Zak's Pain Hacks' ](https://anmj.org.au/book-review-zoe-and-zaks-pain-hacks/) - Chronic pain in children – infants to pre-school age, school age, and adolescents – is a significant public health problem, affecting one in five across the globe. The prevalence of chronic paediatric pain in Australian mirrors these statistics, with Chronic Pain Australia concurring that one in five children experience chronic pain. Chronic pain in children
- [Home outreach nurse recognised in Australia Day 2025 Honours List](https://anmj.org.au/home-outreach-nurse-recognised-in-australia-day-2025-honours-list/) - Registered nurse Jayne Dicketts always had a strong interest in healthcare but was uncertain about which field to choose – until she tried nursing. “I just really clicked with nursing,” she recalls. “It was probably the people contact in it. I went into my nursing degree straight from high school and just loved it.” After
- [Advancing evidence-based practice in healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/advancing-evidence-based-practice-in-healthcare/) - Despite widespread recognition of the importance of evidence-based practice (EBP) and its potential to enhance care quality, patient outcomes, and cost-effectiveness, its implementation in routine healthcare settings worldwide remains surprisingly low. JBI,a research institution part of the University of Adelaide, seeks to understand the reasons behind this persistent challenge. Integrating evidence into practice is no
- [Queensland nurses and midwives call for better wages and working conditions](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-nurses-and-midwives-call-for-better-wages-and-working-conditions/) - Tired and burnt-out, Queensland nurses and midwives are increasingly leaving the profession in the face of a growing workforce crisis, it has been revealed, as the Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) prepares to commence enterprise bargaining negotiations with Queensland Health later this week. The QNMU, which as 74,000 members, has received hundreds of submissions
- [An update on our Work Value cases](https://anmj.org.au/an-update-on-our-work-value-cases/) - The ANMF currently has two Work Value cases before the Fair Work Commission (FWC). Work Value case – Aged care industry This case commenced in late 2020 and was progressed due to the efforts by the ANMF and Health Services Union. The wages gap between nurses and carers working in aged care and those working
- [Shaping the future of care - ANMF priorities 2025: Accessible and affordable healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/shaping-the-future-of-care-anmf-priorities-2025-accessible-and-affordable-healthcare/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is focused on driving meaningful change in 2025 to ensure better conditions for nurses, midwives, carers, students and to meet the health and aged care needs of the community Recognising the critical milestones we have already achieved like wage increases and mandated care minutes, we know progress is
- [Registered nurses given green light to prescribe medicines starting mid-2025](https://anmj.org.au/registered-nurses-given-green-light-to-prescribe-medicines-starting-mid-2025/) - RNs who complete extra education will be allowed to prescribe Schedule 2, 3, 4 and 8 medicines through a prescribing partnership starting in mid-2025.
- [Costs of falls in residential care uncovered  ](https://anmj.org.au/fall-injuries-account-for-20-of-cost-in-resident-care/) - Fall-related injuries in aged care account for one-fifth of the cost of a resident’s care, according to new research. The University of Queensland study found that fall-related injuries in residential aged care could be costing the health system $325 million annually. The study found fall injuries accounted for 20% of annual expenditure on an aged
- [McGrath Foundation expansion provides nurse support for all cancers  ](https://anmj.org.au/mcgrath-foundation-expansion-provides-nurse-support-for-all-cancers/) - The federal government kicked off 2025 with commitment for $2.3 million to the McGrath Foundation to expand an online tool that connects patients with expert cancer care nurses. Nurses take the chaos out of a cancer diagnosis, says McGrath Foundation Chief Nurse Kerry Patford, who welcomes the charity’s expansion to support patients with any type
- [Remote placement deepens desire for a career in remote area nursing](https://anmj.org.au/remote-placement-deepens-desire-for-a-career-in-remote-area-nursing/) - I recently completed a two-week remote placement as part of the Flinders University Graduate Certificate in Remote Health Practice. As a registered nurse working in a South Australian hospital, the remote placement provided the opportunity to experience life and work as a remote area nurse. The prospect of working in a remote area felt daunting
- [Why education makes better nurses](https://anmj.org.au/why-education-makes-better-nurses/) - When I first started teaching at TAFE, I was worried that I would not know enough. When I realised I had enough knowledge, there was a sense of relief – I could teach them something and they would be able to perform procedures because of what I taught them. However, it became apparent, that this
- [Shaping the future of care - ANMF priorities 2025: Aged care](https://anmj.org.au/shaping-the-future-of-care-anmf-priorities-2025-aged-care/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is focused on driving meaningful change in 2025 to ensure better conditions for nurses, midwives, carers, students and to meet the health and aged care needs of the community Recognising the critical milestones we have already achieved like wage increases and mandated care minutes, we know progress is
- [Shaping the future of care - ANMF priorities 2025: WORK VALUE 2 – The Nurses’ and Midwives’ Case](https://anmj.org.au/shaping-the-future-of-care-anmf-priorities-2025-work-value-2-the-nurses-and-midwives-case/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is focused on driving meaningful change in 2025 to ensure better conditions for nurses, midwives, carers, students and to meet the health and aged care needs of the community Recognising the critical milestones we have already achieved like wage increases and mandated care minutes, we know progress is
- [New shoulder injury repair technique improves outcomes](https://anmj.org.au/new-shoulder-injury-repair-technique-improves-outcomes/) - A new technique for repairing rotator cuff injuries is delivering better outcomes for people with shoulder pain. University of Adelaide researchers say about 10,000 repairs to the rotator cuff – the group of muscles and tendons that connect the upper arm bone to the shoulder, allowing movement and stabilisation – are completed in Australia each
- [Q&A with medicinal cannabis advocate Lucy Haslam  ](https://anmj.org.au/qa-with-medicinal-cannabis-advocate-lucy-haslam/) - Retired nurse Lucy Haslam became a fierce campaigner for medicinal cannabis during her son Dan’s battle with terminal cancer after witnessing the relief it gave him. She spearheaded the United in Compassion (UIC) Medicinal Cannabis Symposium in 2014 and continues to advocate for greater access to medicinal cannabis in Australia. What continues to drive your
- [Morning coffee better than all-day drinking  ](https://anmj.org.au/morning-coffee-better-than-all-day-drinking/) - Morning-only coffee drinkers can take heart. Research shows consumption first thing is better for your health and mortality than all-day drinking. People who drink coffee in the morning have a lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and a lower overall mortality risk compared to all-day coffee drinkers, according to the international research. “Given the
- [Registered nurse prescribing - how is it working in other countries?](https://anmj.org.au/registered-nurse-prescribing-how-is-it-working-in-other-countries/) - Overall, nurse prescribing is safe, effective, and well-regarded with tangible benefits for stakeholders especially when supported and integrated into healthcare systems and ongoing education and training. Nurse prescribing can improve: The same or better patient outcomes (in comparison to solely medical prescribing). Access and delivery of nurse-led care. Continuity of care and consumer experience via
- [Historic pay rise for aged care workers comes into effect  ](https://anmj.org.au/historic-pay-rise-for-aged-care-workers-comes-into-effect/) - The first historic pay rise for aged care workers came into effect on 1 January after the Fair Work Commission approved a pay rise of between 2.3 and 13.5% in 2025. Some 340,000 aged care workers in residential and home care will receive an increase in their award wages. For some workers this is the
- [Financial and emotional strain of placement poverty: research](https://anmj.org.au/financial-and-emotional-strain-of-placement-poverty-research/) - A new study has captured the financial and emotional strain of unpaid, mandatory placements on health and education students. The University of Wollongong (UOW) research provides a scaffold for how tertiary students could be better supported to complete mandatory professional placements during their degree. Greater access to scholarships, grants to undertake placements, subsidised transport and
- [Hot tips to stay safe in summer sun: Queensland pathologist](https://anmj.org.au/hot-tips-to-stay-safe-in-summer-sun-queensland-pathologist/) - While social media platforms share a dangerous trend of people deliberately burning their skin into tan lines, a Queensland pathologist and researcher is spreading the message of sun safety this summer. Australian deaths from non-melanoma skin cancers have almost doubled in 20 years, shows recent research from the University of the Sunshine Coast. The research
- [Extra $440 million to support in-home aged care](https://anmj.org.au/extra-440-million-to-support-in-home-aged-care/) - The federal government has committed an extra $440 million to support more older Australians to stay at home, including expanding culturally appropriate aged-care services for First Nations people. The three-year investment, announced yesterday, adds to the Albanese Government’s 4.3 billion Support at Home package unveiled on 12 September. According to the government, demand for entry
- [Changes for residential aged care PCWs in 2025: Find out your pay and classification  ](https://anmj.org.au/changes-for-residential-aged-care-pcws-in-2025-find-out-your-pay-and-classification/) - If you are a PCW working in residential aged care, you can expect some changes to your pay and classification at the start of 2025. Background PCWs, now referred to as an ‘Aged care employee- direct care’, (direct care worker) under the Aged Care Award will receive an increase to minimum award rates effective from
- [Electric scooter warning ahead of holiday season ](https://anmj.org.au/electric-scooter-warning-ahead-of-holiday-season/) - Queensland’s paediatric trauma service team is urging caution with electric scooters this holiday season following a spike in serious injuries and fatalities this year. An e-scooter city-hire scheme was introduced in Brisbane in November 2018. At Queensland Children’s Hospital, between 2019- 2023, 40 children were admitted following an e-scooter incident, with this rising to 11
- [Key changes for AINs in residential aged care: What pay to expect from January 2025 ](https://anmj.org.au/key-changes-for-ains-in-residential-aged-care-what-pay-to-expect-from-january-2025/) - If you are an AIN working in residential aged care, you can expect some changes to your pay and classification at the start of 2025. AINs are currently classified under the Nurses Award 2020. The award sets minimum wages and conditions for AINs, ENs, RNs and Nurse Practitioners. It applies to each of these classifications,
- [What do nurse practitioners think about registered nurse (RN) prescribing?](https://anmj.org.au/what-do-nurse-practitioners-think-about-registered-nurse-rn-prescribing/) - While acknowledging that Registered Nurse (RN) prescribing offers an opportunity to potentially improve patient access to medicines and enhance healthcare system efficiency, many nurse practitioners remain equally concerned about how it will be implemented, possible role ambiguity, and patient safety, a recent study has revealed. The survey of 229 Australian nurse practitioners, about 10% of
- [ANMF welcomes key reforms made in new workforce report ](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-welcomes-key-reforms-made-in-new-workforce-report/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation ( ANMF) has welcomed recommendations made in the Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce’ Scope of Practice Review’ Final Report (‘Report’), that allows highly-trained nurses, midwives and allied health professionals to best utilise their skills, education and extensive experience, provides an important new framework for the delivery of
- [Female nurses face significant gender pay gap  ](https://anmj.org.au/female-nurses-face-significant-gender-pay-gap/) - Female nurses in Australia face a pay gap of up to 13%, with male nurses promoted faster, and in more executive roles despite women making up nearly 90% of the nursing workforce. Edith Cowan University (ECU) researchers who collated the data, have called for a range of flexible work environments to offer more opportunities to
- [The value of the union workplace rep ](https://anmj.org.au/the-value-of-the-union-workplace-rep/) - ANMF Tasmanian Branch member Monica Werner has been a member of the union since she started nursing in 1981. She talks with the ANMJ about the role of the workplace delegate and the value of unions in not just the work setting but the broader community. Q: How did you get involved in being a
- [Nursing students learn first-hand about kidney disease in remote Aboriginal communities](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-students-learn-firsthand-about-kidney-disease-in-remote-aboriginal-communities-and-making-a-difference/) - Each year, the Adelaide University Rural Health Alliance (AURHA) – the rural health club for students undertaking a health-related degree – organises the Yalata Kidney Health Festival. The outreach initiative involves a group of about a dozen students who travel to the remote Indigenous community of Yalata, South Australia. The students engage with the community,
- [Wages, career progression, working to scope and sleep: Most read topics in 2024 ](https://anmj.org.au/wages-career-progression-working-to-scope-and-sleep-most-read-topics-in-2024/) - It’s been an exciting time for nursing and midwifery in 2024. There’s been some big announcements regarding advancements for the nursing and midwifery professions. And we’ve covered it all – the big, the small and everything in-between. Before we head into 2025, we thought we’d recap the top 10 most read ANMJ online stories
- [Study callout: Help researchers understand drinking cultures among Victorian nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/study-callout-help-researchers-understand-drinking-cultures-among-victorian-nurses-and-midwives/) - Are you a Victorian nurse or midwife interested in sharing your insights on drinking cultures within your professional community? Researchers from La Trobe University and Monash University want to hear from you. Researchers are conducting an online survey to explore the unique dynamics of drinking cultures among nurses and midwives. Drinking together (e.g., after work
- [Sacrificial burdens: Understanding overlooked fringe benefits implications](https://anmj.org.au/sacrificial-burdens-understanding-overlooked-fringe-benefits-implications/) - While non-financial benefits such as fringe benefits from employers can be appealing, it’s beneficial to understand some of the generally less considered aspects before making the decision that is right for you and your situation. While it might seem good sense to take advantage of these perks, often this can come at the expense of
- [Overweight overtakes tobacco as highest risk factor for disease  ](https://anmj.org.au/overweight-overtakes-tobacco-as-highest-risk-factor-for-disease/) - Living with overweight or obesity has overtaken tobacco smoking as the leading risk factor contributing to disease in 2024. Over one-third of the total burden of disease and injury in Australia in 2024 could have been avoided or reduced due to modifiable risk factors, according to the Australian Burden of Disease Study 2024. The study,
- [Last call: nominate for HESTA nursing and midwifery awards](https://anmj.org.au/last-call-nominate-for-hesta-nursing-and-midwifery-awards/) - Employers, colleagues, patients, family and friends have until this Sunday to nominate an exceptional nurse, midwife or healthcare organisation for the 2025 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards. Now in its 18th year, the awards honour the vital contributions made by Australia’s nurses, midwives, nurse educators, researchers, and personal care workers, who improve health outcomes for
- [Endometriosis drug Visanne to be listed on the PBS, slashing annual cost in half](https://anmj.org.au/endometriosis-drug-visanne-to-be-listed-on-the-pbs-slashing-annual-cost-in-half/) - For the first time in three decades, Australian women living with endometriosis will have access to a new treatment subsidised by the federal government.
- ['Pain grows roots': Women's pain is not niche - it affects half the population ](https://anmj.org.au/pain-grows-roots-womens-pain-is-not-niche-it-affects-half-the-population/) - Every woman has a story. From migraines to pelvic pain, aching bones and muscles to mental and hormonal health, women are living with pain that could be treatable. But they are dismissed, their pain diminished, and they are statistically shown to have worse health outcomes than men. The recent Victorian Inquiry into Women’s Pain and,
- [Looking after your older self – Caring for your superannuation](https://anmj.org.au/looking-after-your-older-self-caring-for-your-superannuation/) - In Australia, superannuation plays a crucial role in securing financial stability for individuals in retirement. Australia continues to have a gender super gap, and the gender pay gap contributes to this. Nursing and midwifery are female dominated professions and women face unique challenges that can place them at a disadvantage when it comes to retirement
- [Five of My Life series: In conversation with Katy](https://anmj.org.au/five-of-my-life-series-in-conversation-with-katy/) - As part of our summer series, we’re highlighting nurses and midwives who featured in the Five of My Life podcast series in 2024. A collaboration with the ANMF, podcaster Nigel Marsh talks with rural Victorian RN Katy Condliffe about her life and career, including as a Board member for NGO World Youth International. From the
- [Calling all midwives and midwifery students: Take part in a nationwide study shaping future of breastfeeding support](https://anmj.org.au/calling-all-midwives-and-midwifery-students-take-part-in-a-nationwide-study-shaping-future-of-breastfeeding-support/) - Where do Australian midwives and midwifery students gain critical breastfeeding knowledge and support skills? It’s a question that researchers from the University of Notre Dame’s School of Nursing and Midwifery are currently investigating in a bid to enhance best practices. Exclusive breastfeeding is the optimal nutritional food for newborns and babies under six months and
- [Nurses needed for study on what deprescribing recommendations should look like](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-needed-for-study-on-what-deprescribing-recommendations-should-look-like/) - Internationally, there has been an increase in the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medicines (PIMs) where the risks may outweigh the benefits. This rise is partly due to healthcare professionals’ adherence to clinical practice guidelines, which typically recommend prescribing medications for treating and managing diseases. Deprescribing involves systematically reducing or discontinuing PIMs under the supervision of
- [Update: Aged Care Work Value Case decision for RNs and ENs](https://anmj.org.au/update-aged-care-work-value-case-decision-for-rns-and-ens/) - The ANMF's landmark Aged Care Work Value Case before the Fair Work Commission (FWC) is nearing its completion.
- [First report on health effects of methane pollution ](https://anmj.org.au/first-report-on-health-effects-of-methane-pollution/) - Australia’s first report on the health effects of methane pollution has been launched, with a clarion call for addressing the health impacts of coal and gas methane emissions. The report, compiled by not-for-profit organisation Healthy Futures, highlights the role of methane in causing and exacerbating climate change. Beyond the immediate climate impact, reducing methane emissions
- [Hundreds of private sector Victorian nurses and midwives stop work   ](https://anmj.org.au/hundreds-of-private-sector-victorian-nurses-and-midwives-stop-work/) - Hundreds of St Vincent’s Private Hospitals’ nurses and midwives have walked out of their workplaces as part of an escalation of their unprecedented protected industrial action campaign for mandated nurse/midwife patient ratios and competitive wages and conditions with their public colleagues. “Hundreds of St Vincent’s Private Hospitals nurses and midwives have courageously taken this unprecedented
- [New fully-funded Graduate Diploma in Perinatal Mental Health aims to address clinician shortage](https://anmj.org.au/new-fully-funded-graduate-diploma-in-perinatal-mental-health-aims-to-address-clinician-shortage/) - Perinatal mental health organisation Gidget Foundation has partnered with Federation University to launch a fully-funded Graduate Diploma in Perinatal Mental Health in a bid to address a nationwide shortage of specialist clinicians working in the field. According to Gidget Foundation, demand for its perinatal mental health services continues to surge, leading to it seeing 30%
- [Nurses must be included in shaping digital innovations in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-must-be-included-in-shaping-digital-innovations-in-aged-care/) - Digital technology can assist aged care nurses to manage end of life in nursing homes, however, ensuring its impact requires better tools, training and ongoing support, according to a new study. Published in the journal BMC Nursing, the study interviewed nursing staff in 15 residential aged care facilities across three Australian states. It found nurses
- [Aged Care Act passes Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-act-passes-parliament/) - The Albanese Government’s Aged Care Bill passed Parliament earlier this week, paving the way for a new Aged Care Act and “once-in-a-generation” reforms to the sector. The new legislation, which will come into effect from 1 July 2025, addresses nearly 60 recommendations from the landmark Aged Care Royal Commission, as it aims to create a
- [The support I needed: How CRANAplus’ Bush Support Line is helping the remote health workforce thrive](https://anmj.org.au/it-saved-my-life-how-cranaplus-bush-support-line-is-helping-the-remote-health-workforce-thrive/) - When remote area nurse (RAN) Kellie Kerin was struggling at work, she turned to CRANAplus’ Bush Support Line for help. She credits the free and confidential 24/7 telephone support service, which gives all remote health workers, including nurses and midwives and their families, access to a psychologist experienced in the sector, with “saving” her life.
- [Nurses and midwives meet with politicians to advocate for vital role in primary healthcare reform](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-meet-with-politicians-to-advocate-for-vital-role-in-primary-healthcare-reform/) - Nine of the nation’s largest nursing and midwifery organisations have formed an Alliance to campaign for significant and meaningful primary health care reform.
- [Let’s talk about HIV (Stigma) – new video and learning resource for healthcare workers](https://anmj.org.au/lets-talk-about-hiv-stigma-new-video-and-learning-resource-for-healthcare-workers/) - With timely diagnosis and access to effective treatment, HIV is now a chronic, manageable condition with normal life expectancy. However, HIV stigma is widely recognised as being a major determinant of HIV health because it delays diagnosis (for example, it can lead to people avoiding testing, or clinicians may feel uncomfortable discussing testing with their
- [Firefighters, nurses considered the most trustworthy occupations](https://anmj.org.au/firefighters-nurses-considered-the-most-trustworthy-occupations/) - Firefighters and nurses top the list of Australia’s most trusted occupations, according to the 2024 Ethics Index. Conversely, real estate agents, federal/state politicians, and directors of foreign companies operating in Australia, are viewed as the least ethical. Now in its ninth year, the Governance Institute of Australia’s Ethics Index involves an independent nationwide survey that
- [Developmental screening tools in adolescent period in relation to mental health and alcohol and other drug (AOD) use](https://anmj.org.au/developmental-screening-tools-in-adolescent-period-in-relation-to-mental-health-and-alcohol-and-other-drug-aod-use/) - Adolescents between 10 and 19 years of age, are at a pivotal stage of health development marked by curiosity, experimentation, self-discovery; this period of development is often when many young individuals have their initial experiences with alcohol and other drugs (AOD).1-3 The connection between AOD use and adolescent mental health is complex and associated with
- [Public health campaign: First Nations mums and bubs ](https://anmj.org.au/public-health-campaign-first-nations-mums-and-bubs/) - A new public health campaign to improve pregnancy outcomes for First Nations mothers and their babies across the country has launched, with educational resources now available to midwives and nurses. The Preterm Birth Prevention ‘See, Stop, Scan’ campaign aims to educate and empower First Nations mothers by promoting engagement between healthcare providers and pregnant Top
- [Is sleep a legitimate treatment for chronic pain?](https://anmj.org.au/is-sleep-a-legitimate-treatment-for-chronic-pain/) - A study investigating the links between sleep and pain could fundamentally change the way clinicians treat people with chronic pain. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) investigator and pain scientist Dr David Klyne, of the University of Queensland, discusses his current research, which is looking into how sleep influences pain recovery. What is your
- [Australian women work for free until end of 2024    ](https://anmj.org.au/australian-women-work-for-free-until-end-of-2024/) - Today marks the start of the period when Australian women effectively turn up at their jobs and work for ‘free’ for the rest of the year because of the gender pay gap. According to latest figures, on average, Australian women are working for free for 42 days. This equates to the average gap between male
- [Health apps improve diet, sleep and physical activity, study finds ](https://anmj.org.au/health-apps-improve-diet-sleep-and-physical-activity-study-finds/) - Digital health apps can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing, including improving sleep quality and keeping you active, according to a new study from University of South Australia researchers. Researchers examined data from 206,873 people across 47 studies, finding that digital health tools – like mobile apps, websites, and text messages –
- [A voice for change: The evolution of the ANMJ and its role in strengthening nursing and midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/a-voice-for-change-the-evolution-of-the-anmj-and-its-role-in-strengthening-nursing-and-midwifery/) - The first edition of The Australian Nurses’ Journal of the Royal Australian Nursing Federation (RANF), now ANMF, was published in July 1971. The national journal was established in a bid to enhance communications across the country and support ongoing efforts to strengthen and maintain the status of the nursing profession. Steered by then RANF federal
- [Climate crisis is a health crisis: Nurses and midwives call for action  ](https://anmj.org.au/climate-crisis-is-a-health-crisis-nurses-and-midwives-call-for-action/) - Nurses and midwives have declared the climate crisis a health crisis with an immediate call to action this Global Climate Change Week (14-18 October). The Planetary Health Collaborative for Nurses and Midwives declaration highlights the devastating impact climate change is having on human health, urging policymakers to adopt health in all policies and to act
- [AI to help address aggression in the ED ](https://anmj.org.au/ai-to-help-address-aggression-in-the-ed/) - Artificial intelligence (AI) has been integrated into an immersive virtual reality enhanced computer simulation program to train frontline healthcare workers in de-escalating aggression in patients. Developed by researchers from Edith Cowan University (ECU), ‘Barry’ is an AI computer-based model that allows clinicians and students to verbally interact with him in a hospital setting. Users have
- [Transitioning nursing education into higher education  ](https://anmj.org.au/transitioning-nursing-education-into-higher-education/) - The transfer of nursing education to the higher education system was one of the most significant milestones in the history of nursing in Australia. Australian Nursing Federation (ANF), now the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), has played a pivotal role in the evolution of nursing and midwifery education in Australia. Its involvement spans decades
- [New Aged Care Act doesn’t go far enough, ANMF argues](https://anmj.org.au/new-aged-care-act-doesnt-go-far-enough-anmf-argues/) - The draft new Aged Care Act hasn't gone far enough, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has argued.
- [St Vincent’s Private Hospital nurses and midwives start industrial action for safe staffing](https://anmj.org.au/st-vincents-private-hospital-nurses-and-midwives-start-industrial-action-for-safe-staffing/) - Nearly 1,000 nurses and midwives across St Vincent’s Private Hospitals’ four Melbourne healthcare facilities began ‘unprecedented’ industrial action this morning for better pay and safer staffing. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (Victorian Branch) has been negotiating a new enterprise agreement since June with St Vincent’s Private Hospitals’ management for its hospitals in Fitzroy, East
- [Thousands of NSW nurses and midwives strike for better pay    ](https://anmj.org.au/thousands-of-nsw-nurses-and-midwives-strike-for-better-pay/) - More than 12,000 NSW nurses and midwives took industrial action yesterday in their fight for a 15% pay raise. The 24-hour strike action was bigger than the last one held in late September with rallies held around the state after failed negotiations between the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) and the state Labor Minns
- [NSW nurses and midwives call a second 24-hour strike   ](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-nurses-and-midwives-call-a-second-24-hour-strike/) - NSW public sector nurses and midwives will go on strike for 24 hours next week, after talks between the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) and the state government failed to reach an outcome on wages. The second 24-hour strike will start on the morning shift on Wednesday 13 November, the NSWNMA has confirmed. NSW
- [Nurse Midwife HPA opens for in-person consults](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-midwife-hpa-opens-for-in-person-consults/) - The Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia (Nurse Midwife HPA) has announced expansion of its services with the launch of state hubs and regional offices across Australia. The specialist peer support counselling service for nurses, midwives and students of the professions launched in April 2024, providing confidential free support via telehealth counselling. Nurse Midwife HPA has
- [Meal timing crucial for night shift worker health](https://anmj.org.au/meal-timing-crucial-for-night-shift-worker-health/) - Overnight eating may be putting night shift workers at higher risk of chronic health conditions. South Australian researchers found blood glucose levels skyrocketed in study participants who either snacked or ate full meals at night putting their health at increased risk. Led by researchers from the University of South Australia, University of Adelaide and SAHMRI,
- [ANMF midwives supports the recommendations in the Midwifery Futures Project Report    ](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-midwives-supports-the-recommendations-in-the-midwifery-futures-project-report/) - On 23 October 2024, the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia and the Burnet Institute released the Midwifery Futures Report, a document which outlines the major problems faced by the current midwifery workforce. The Report found that nearly one in three midwives are considering leaving the profession. Midwives have been reporting the workforce crisis in
- [Nurses among 20 Medicare Champions awarded    ](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-among-20-medicare-champions-awarded/) - A Tasmanian nurse practitioner and NSW practice nurse manager have been recognised amongst 20 Medicare Champions in the Stronger Medicare Awards announced in a ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra last night. In Medicare’s 40th birthday year, the Stronger Medicare Awards recognise and honour the outstanding health professionals and other workers in clinics, health centres,
- [Fee-free TAFE to help fix skills shortages in nursing and aged care    ](https://anmj.org.au/fee-free-tafe-to-help-fix-skills-shortages-in-nursing-and-aged-care/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has issued a media release welcoming the Albanese Government’s commitment to expanding fee-free TAFE courses. ANMF Federal Secretary Annie Butler said enduring funding for free TAFE study would help address skills shortages in the nursing and aged care workforces and save students thousands of dollars a year in
- [Scholarships to train Endometriosis Specialty Nurses now open   ](https://anmj.org.au/scholarships-to-train-endometriosis-specialty-nurses-now-open/) - Woolgoolga primary care nurse and ‘endo warrior’ Lucy Downey is encouraging nurses to apply for one of 15 Endo Australia’s scholarships open until 18 November. The scholarship program is aimed to train endometriosis specialty nurses (Endo Nurses), with a focus on regional, rural and remote areas. Endometriosis Australia is offering 15 scholarships to complete the single unit of
- [Advocating for sustainable and accessible breastfeeding support for Australian mums and families   ](https://anmj.org.au/advocating-for-sustainable-and-accessible-breastfeeding-support-for-australian-mums-and-families/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has urged the Australian Government to ensure ongoing and comprehensive funding for the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) as one of the outcomes of the 2023 Biennial National Conference resolutions. This vital commitment would help to foster a supportive environment for breastfeeding across the nation and would recognise the
- [The role of regulation in nursing and midwifery in Australia: A legacy of excellence and advocacy  ](https://anmj.org.au/the-role-of-regulation-in-nursing-and-midwifery-in-australia-a-legacy-of-excellence-and-advocacy/) - In Australia’s healthcare system, regulating and accrediting nursing and midwifery are vital for maintaining high standards and ensuring public safety. The ANMF’s contributions to nursing and midwifery regulation in Australia reflect its commitment to excellence and safety. From advocating for professional recognition to shaping national standards, the ANMF has been a significant force in Australian
- [Providers falling short in meeting care minutes, hears Senate inquiry](https://anmj.org.au/providers-falling-short-in-meeting-care-minutes-hears-senate-inquiry/) - Some aged care providers are reclassifying lifestyle staff as Personal Care Workers (PCWs) to get around meeting their mandated care minutes targets, a Senate Inquiry has heard.
- [The mighty ANMF turns 100: Tears, pride, joy](https://anmj.org.au/the-mighty-anmf-turns-100-tears-pride-joy/) - Tears of joy together with feelings of pride, camaraderie and nostalgia were on display amongst nursing and midwifery stalwarts at the official launch of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) 100-year documentary in Sydney last week. Almost like a family reunion, the guest list boasted long-time nurse and midwife ANMF members from around the
- [The ANMF’s priorities for a new Aged Care Act](https://anmj.org.au/the-anmfs-priorities-for-a-new-aged-care-act/) - The Australian Government is developing a new Aged Care Act, which sets out rules for things like funding, regulation, approval of providers, quality of care and the rights of people receiving funded aged care under the Commonwealth aged care system. The New Aged Care Bill (2024) is set to replace the current Act, which has
- [More needed to address challenges for women in Australia’s digital health workforce](https://anmj.org.au/more-needed-to-address-challenges-for-women-in-australias-digital-health-workforce/) - More women are choosing to continue their careers in digital health as gender diversity in the sector improves. But challenges remain, according to the Gender Diversity in Australia’s Digital Health Workforce 2024 Report. Launched last week, the report was based on the 2023 census on gender diversity and aims to address the lack of research
- [Applications now open for the Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Program for study in 2025    ](https://anmj.org.au/applications-now-open-for-the-primary-care-nursing-and-midwifery-scholarship-program-for-study-in-2025/) - The Scholarships are an opportunity for registered nurses and midwives to enhance their qualifications and contribute to improving healthcare services in Australia. About the Scholarship Program The Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Programis designed to support registered nurses and midwives in completing postgraduate studies. Funded by the Australian Government and administered by the ACNP,
- [RNs invited to take part in research exploring competence-based assessments](https://anmj.org.au/rns-invited-to-take-part-in-research-exploring-competence-based-assessments/) - Registered nurses are invited to take part in a research project aiming to understand the effectiveness of competence-based assessments for RNs in Australia. Existing literature highlights various frameworks and methods for evaluating nursing competence, emphasising the importance of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Notable advancements include the integration of competency-based education and the development
- [ICN 2025 Congress in Finland: registrations open  ](https://anmj.org.au/icn-2025-congress-in-finland-registrations-open/) - Australian nurses are invited to attend the International Council of Nurses (ICN) 2025 Congress which will be held 9-13 June 2025 in the land of the Midnight Sun – Helsinki, Finland. The 2025 theme for the ICN’s 30th Congress, Nursing power to change the world, will showcase the extraordinary influence wielded by nurses who are
- [ANMF (Tasmanian Branch) launches ‘Count the Babies’ campaign](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-tasmanian-branch-launches-count-the-babies-campaign/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (Tasmanian Branch) is calling for babies to be counted in staffing ratios to avoid ‘dangerous understaffing’ that puts both mothers and babies at risk. Launching a new campaign this week to count babies as a separate patient to their parent, which would bring Tasmania in line with other states
- [‘We don’t have enough midwives’: Australia’s midwifery workforce in crisis, report finds](https://anmj.org.au/we-dont-have-enough-midwives-australias-midwifery-workforce-in-crisis-report-finds/) - Australia’s midwifery workforce is ‘in crisis’ with not enough midwives or students to meet future needs, a new report has warned. Released in Canberra today, the Midwifery Futures report, commissioned by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), exposes widespread local staffing shortfalls, especially in non-metropolitan areas, which would have ‘catastrophic impact’ if the
- [100 years old, 100 years strong: ANMF marks a remarkable milestone](https://anmj.org.au/100-years-old-100-years-strong-anmf-marks-a-remarkable-milestone/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), its Executive, State and Territory Branches and members all across the country are today celebrating a remarkable milestone – a century of serving and advocating for the rights and well-being of nurses, midwives, and the communities they serve. From just 700 members in 1924, the ANMF has steadily
- [Assessing what makes a reasonable decision with AI    ](https://anmj.org.au/assessing-what-makes-a-reasonable-decision-with-ai/) - With the increasing impact of artificial intelligence (AI), researchers are exploring the role of technology in clinical decision-making and explanations in healthcare. “Clinicians must calibrate their judgement against a whole constellation of other factors, even if they are using an AI tool that is well validated and highly accurate,” said Dr Ian Stedman, a lawyer
- [Student spotlight - Tallulah](https://anmj.org.au/student-spotlight-tallulah/) - Tallulah McCarthy-Huxley is a third-year Bachelor of Midwifery student at Griffith University. 1 What inspired you to choose a career in nursing/midwifery? From a young age, I was deeply passionate about healthy and sustainable ways of living. I always envisioned a career in healthcare, but I felt that my holistic beliefs didn’t align with the
- [Weighted blankets can help improve sleep, finds study](https://anmj.org.au/weighted-blankets-can-help-improve-sleep-finds-study/) - Weighted blankets can help to improve sleep in adults with insomnia and other mental health conditions including anxiety and depression, but results are mixed for children, new research has found. Led by occupational therapist and Flinders University researcher Dr Suzanne Dawson, the study found the blankets were effective in improving sleep, reducing medication use and
- [Heat linked to increased suicide risk for men    ](https://anmj.org.au/heat-linked-to-increased-suicide-risk-for-men/) - As temperatures rise this summer, so does the risk of suicide for older Australian men, research shows. Around 0.5%, or approximately 260 suicide deaths in Australia over a two-decade period correlated with unusually higher temperatures caused by climate change, according to new Curtin University researchers. The increased risk was observed among men aged 55 and
- [Mapping the carbon footprint of a patient undergoing cardiac care     ](https://anmj.org.au/mapping-the-carbon-footprint-of-a-patient-undergoing-cardiac-care/) - New analysis on the environmental impact of two common heart procedures shows it is possible to make quality clinical choices whilst also considering the carbon footprint of care. Healthcare is a leading contributor to the world’s carbon footprint – research shows the industry accounts for 7% of carbon emissions. University of Sydney researchers, including a
- [Escape Room training challenges nursing students to think on their feet    ](https://anmj.org.au/escape-room-training-challenges-nursing-students-to-think-on-their-feet/) - “It’s all a bit of a mystery, and that’s the challenge,” explains University of South Australia (UniSA) nursing lecturer Dr Michelle Freeling, of the immersive escape room experience designed to help postgraduate perioperative nurses sharpen their skills. An escape room typically involves a group of people being locked in a room and having to solve
- [Feel like a fraud? Five tips to tackle Imposter Syndrome    ](https://anmj.org.au/feel-like-a-fraud-five-tips-to-tackle-imposter-syndrome/) - Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where one feels like a fraud or a fake in their profession. This can especially be felt by students, graduates and early career nurses and midwives. “I was a new graduate in my first week catching the lift up to my new ward next to some relatives and it
- [Shaping the future of aged care: Nursing students gain new perspective through clinical placements program     ](https://anmj.org.au/shaping-the-future-of-aged-care-nursing-students-gain-new-perspective-through-clinical-placements-program/) - Nursing student Marcus Goh says his understanding and appreciation of the residential aged care sector improved significantly as part of the federal government-funded Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placements Program. Launched mid-2023, the national program has provided thousands of Bachelor of Nursing students with high-quality placements in aged care by giving them the opportunity to work
- [Sickness in health: Workplace bullying    ](https://anmj.org.au/sickness-in-health-workplace-bullying/) - “It broke my heart leaving when and how I did. I simply couldn’t take it anymore. I had to go. I felt like my life depended on it,” said Brenda Happell, Professor of Mental Health at Southern Cross University. The esteemed academic, with more than four decades of experience in healthcare and university settings has
- [Broccoli and kale top vegies for lowering blood pressure     ](https://anmj.org.au/broccoli-and-kale-top-vegies-for-lowering-blood-pressure/) - If you suffer from high blood pressure, you may want to consider swapping pumpkin and potato for broccoli and cauliflower on your Christmas plate this festive season. Cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, cabbage, kale, and cauliflower have been found to lower blood pressure, in comparison to root and squash vegetables, in middle-aged and older Australian adults
- [ANMF calls for urgent action to address birth trauma in Australia](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-calls-for-urgent-action-to-address-birth-trauma-in-australia/) - The ANMF has called for the urgent implementation of all 43 recommendations from the NSW Select Committee on Birth Trauma report.
- [New Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Clinical Care Standard launched](https://anmj.org.au/new-chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd-clinical-care-standard-launched/) - A nagging cough, coupled with being unable to breathe or walk properly, prompted John to visit his GP. After being referred to a lung specialist, he found out he had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and was given 18 months to live. “It was a big shock once we [my family] found out what it
- [Queensland unions push for equal paid parental leave](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-unions-push-for-equal-paid-parental-leave/) - The Queensland Police Union has this week partnered with the Queensland Council of Unions in a joint campaign pushing for equal paid parental leave across the state public sector. The campaign is calling for commitments from both Labor and the LNP to assure workers of their job security, fair wages and improvements to paid parental
- [Low-carb/high fat diets for weight loss boost risk of type 2 diabetes, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/low-carb-high-fat-diets-for-weight-loss-boost-risk-of-type-2-diabetes-study-finds/) - The global trend towards low carbohydrate, high-fat diets for weight loss can increase a person’s risk of developing diabetes by 20%, according to a groundbreaking 17-year study of almost 40,000 Melburnians. Conducted by Monash University and RMIT University researchers, the study used data from Melburnians aged 40-69, recruited into the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study (MCCS)
- [Right to disconnect: What does it mean for nurses, midwives and aged care workers?](https://anmj.org.au/right-to-disconnect-what-does-it-mean-for-nurses-and-midwives/) - Earlier this year, the Federal Parliament passed laws to create a new workplace right: the right to disconnect. On Monday, those laws came into force. The change came about because lawmakers recognised that technological developments, such as laptops and mobile phones, which allow many employees to work remotely, also allow the workplace to encroach into
- [Deakin Professor recognised globally for shaping emergency nursing education](https://anmj.org.au/deakin-professor-recognised-globally-for-shaping-emergency-nursing-education/) - From the moment she stepped into the Royal Melbourne Hospital’s Emergency Department as a 19-year-old second-year student, Professor Julie Considine AO was captivated by the specialty of emergency nursing. “I loved the unpredictability,” she recalls. “I really loved that it spans all specialties, so you get to use all your skills as a nurse.” Professor
- [The importance of supporting older nurses and midwives in the workplace](https://anmj.org.au/the-importance-of-supporting-older-nurses-and-midwives-in-the-workplace/) - The healthcare sector is experiencing unprecedented challenges. There is an increasing demand for healthcare services partially attributed to the global ageing population (1); however, healthcare services worldwide are grappling with nursing and midwifery shortages. Many countries struggle to train and retain enough nurses to meet the growing demand, leading to overworked staff and compromised patient
- [‘It creeps up on you’: How to solve Australia’s hidden chronic wound epidemic](https://anmj.org.au/it-creeps-up-on-you-how-to-solve-australias-hidden-chronic-wound-epidemic/) - Wounds Australia has released a '5 Point Plan' to solve the country's chronic wound epidemic.
- [Limiting soft drinks and red meat may help women in menopause  ](https://anmj.org.au/limiting-soft-drinks-and-red-meat-may-help-women-in-menopause/) - Diet quality may influence menopausal symptoms and overall quality of life, according to a nutrition study of Australian women. The research of more than 200 women with an average age of 51, found those who consumed fewer sugar-sweetened drinks were less likely to have joint and muscle complaints. In addition, a lower intake of red
- [People with iron disorder encouraged to donate blood ](https://anmj.org.au/people-with-iron-disorder-encouraged-to-donate-blood/) - People with haemochromatosis who need to have blood removed in order to reduce their iron levels are being encouraged to donate at Australian Red Cross Lifeblood. Haemochromatosis, which causes the body to store too much iron affects one in every 180-200 people. The primary treatment to reduce high levels of iron is the removal of
- [Introducing a person-centred approach to indwelling urinary catheter care in aged care homes](https://anmj.org.au/introducing-a-person-centred-approach-to-indwelling-urinary-catheter-care-in-aged-care-homes/) - The care workforce is central to the quality of care in aged care homes in Australia. The knowledge, confidence and skill of the aged care workforce is fundamentally important for the quality of life and wellbeing of people in aged care homes. The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has identified the need
- [Calling all primary healthcare nurses and midwives: Complete APNA’s 2024 Workforce Survey today](https://anmj.org.au/calling-all-primary-healthcare-nurses-and-midwives-complete-apnas-2024-workforce-survey-today/) - For over 15 years, the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association’s annual Workforce Survey has provided a comprehensive snapshot of the working conditions and professional concerns faced by primary healthcare nurses and midwives working across the country. It remains the only national survey focused on the nearly 100,000 nurses and midwives working outside of hospitals
- [Enhancing clinical placement learning for nursing and midwifery students: A national quality assurance project](https://anmj.org.au/enhancing-clinical-placement-learning-for-nursing-and-midwifery-students-a-national-quality-assurance-project/) - The National Placement Evaluation Centre (NPEC) was established in 2018 to provide an Australian national approach to monitoring nursing and midwifery student evaluations of their professional experience placements (PEP). The lack of a national monitoring system was questioned in a review of nursing.1 Initially funded by the Council of Deans Nursing and Midwifery Australia and
- [Coffee during pregnancy may be safe, research shows ](https://anmj.org.au/coffee-during-pregnancy-may-be-safe-research-shows/) - New research has failed to find strong links between drinking coffee during pregnancy and neurodevelopmental difficulties in children. However, researchers are advising expectant mothers to follow current medical guidelines on caffeine consumption. University of Queensland researchers conducted an in-depth genetic analysis of data from tens of thousands of families in Norway. “Scandinavians are some
- [Let’s celebrate: Share your stories and messages of support  ](https://anmj.org.au/lets-celebrate-share-your-stories-and-messages-of-support/) - This year, we proudly celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), which has grown to become Australia’s largest trade union in 2024, representing 327,000 members. Our future is strong, and our future is bright. For a century, the ANMF has championed the rights and welfare of nurses, midwives, and the
- [Aged Care Minister’s open letter puts for-profit providers on notice](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-ministers-open-letter-puts-for-profit-providers-on-notice/) - Aged Care Minister Anika Wells has called out for-profit residential aged care providers for failing to meet mandatory care minutes targets.
- [What a time to be an ANMF member as we celebrate our proud 100-year history  ](https://anmj.org.au/what-a-time-to-be-an-anmf-member-as-we-celebrate-our-proud-100-year-history/) - From humble beginnings of some 700 members over a century ago, we now mark a national membership of over 326,000, making us the largest union in the country. This year is especially important as we reflect on ANMF’s proud history and all it has achieved over the past 100 years to improve the working lives
- [Q&A: Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Navigator Susan Jury ](https://anmj.org.au/qa-voluntary-assisted-dying-care-navigator-susan-jury/) - Nurse Susan Jury helped establish Victoria’s statewide voluntary assisted dying care navigator service in the lead up to landmark legislation coming into effect in June 2019. The statewide navigator service, which includes a multidisciplinary team of nursing and allied health expert clinicians delivering support to individuals and families, sees around 1,000 people a year. “It’s
- [Still nursing at 83, Rosemary remains a staunch union member](https://anmj.org.au/still-nursing-at-83-rosemary-remains-a-staunch-union-member/) - Whenever registered nurse Rosemary Power gets the chance to share her wisdom with young nurses and midwives, her message is clear: join the union. “I’ve been a union person from day one,” she says proudly. “Whatever you do, join the union. Because when the chips are down, the union has got your back.” Born in
- [Karen Booth appointed Australian Digital Health Agency’s first Chief Clinical Adviser (Nursing)](https://anmj.org.au/karen-booth-appointed-australian-digital-health-agencys-first-chief-clinical-adviser-nursing/) - The Australian Digital Health Agency has appointed Karen Booth, President of the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA), as its inaugural Chief Clinical Adviser (Nursing). Ms Booth, a highly respected and experienced nurse with a background in primary care, preventative care, clinical government and leadership, said she was honoured and excited to join the
- [Breaking Barriers: Advancing women nurses in healthcare leadership](https://anmj.org.au/breaking-barriers-advancing-women-nurses-in-healthcare-leadership/) - In Australia, women make up the majority of the nursing profession, yet they are under-represented in healthcare leadership. ROBERT FEDELE talks with researcher Mihirika Pincha Baduge about efforts to break down barriers. The glaring under-representation of women nurses in healthcare leadership is currently being explored by Victorian critical care registered nurse and PhD candidate Mihirika
- [ANMF advocates for paid clinical placements for all nursing and midwifery students](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-advocates-for-paid-clinical-placements-for-all-nursing-and-midwifery-students/) - The ANMF has called for the immediate and universal rollout of the Commonwealth's 'Prac Payment' for nursing and midwifery students at a Senate inquiry.
- [Daylight savings time starts this weekend: Check your award and prioritise sleep ](https://anmj.org.au/daylight-saving-time-starts-this-weekend-check-your-award-and-prioritise-sleep/) - It’s that time again – adjusting clocks in most of Australia’s eastern states to enjoy longer evening sunlight during summer. Nurses and midwives in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria will lose an hour when the clocks are moved forward at 2am (to 3am) this Sunday 6 October. If
- [Queensland’s historic 10 days paid reproductive health leave takes effect  ](https://anmj.org.au/queenslands-historic-10-days-paid-reproductive-health-leave-takes-effect/) - Queensland public sector nurses and midwives are now able to access 10 days paid reproductive leave, with the state setting the bar for the rest of the country to follow. Announced on Labour Day in May, the historic access to 10 days per annum (non-cumulative) paid reproductive health leave came into effect on Monday. More than
- [Manual handling and no lift  ](https://anmj.org.au/manual-handling-and-no-lift/) - Safe manual handling and no lift policies had their origins with the union back in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The movement towards ‘no lift’ policies were driven by nurses and midwives on the ground with increasing awareness of occupational health and safety issues. These policies aim to improve both patient and staff safety
- [Light at the end of the tunnel for night shift workers](https://anmj.org.au/light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel-for-night-shift-workers/) - The use of circadian-informed lighting, where artificial lighting is synchronised to the natural biological rhythms or a person’s ‘body-clock’, significantly improves quality of sleep and work performance for night shift workers, a new trial has found. The Flinders University trial is amongst the first tightly controlled in-laboratory studies to have simultaneously evaluated circadian-lighting effects on
- [The Power of Persistence: How the ANMF’s advocacy laid the foundation for NPs in Australia  ](https://anmj.org.au/the-power-of-persistence-how-the-anmfs-advocacy-laid-the-foundation-for-nps-in-australia/) - The nurse practitioner (NP) role originated in the United States in the mid-1960s to address gaps in healthcare. But it took 35 years later, on 12 December 2000, for Jane O’Connell (emergency) and Sue Denison (rural and remote health) to become Australia’s first authorised NPs. Requiring Master’s level education, NPs possess the expertise and authority
- [ANMF champions universal health coverage and high-quality aged care  ](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-champions-universal-health-coverage-and-high-quality-aged-care/) - The ANMF continues to be a powerful advocate for universal health coverage (UHC) in Australia, underlining the pivotal role nurses and midwives can play in ensuring all people have access to the healthcare services they need, when and where they need them, without financial hardship. For example, the expansion of nurse-led and midwife-led clinics, such
- [The ANMF leadership is in good hands](https://anmj.org.au/the-anmf-leadership-is-in-good-hands/) - This is my last article for the ANMJ, as I am standing down as ANMF Federal Vice President. Usually in my articles I write about something I am passionate about, such as critical thinking, vicarious trauma, or burnout amongst people in our professions. But today I want to tell you about the ANMF Federal Executive/Council,
- [Strength in numbers: 100 years of improving the working lives of nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/strength-in-numbers-100-years-of-improving-the-working-lives-of-nurses-and-midwives/) - The working lives of nurses and midwives have undergone significant transformation over the past 100 years. In 1938, a typical staff nurse in Victoria earned just two pounds, four shillings, and four pence, for a 50-hour work week, caring for 10 patients during the day and 15 at night. These early nurses’ responsibilities extended far
- [Beyond judgement: A nursing perspective on obesity, medications, and the path to health  ](https://anmj.org.au/beyond-judgement-a-nursing-perspective-on-obesity-medications-and-the-path-to-health/) - Recently, while waiting at a pharmacy, I witnessed an interaction that has stayed with me. A young man, around 30 years old, stood at the counter, visibly uncomfortable. He was breathless and sweating slightly, despite the cool, air-conditioned environment – signs of the physical and maybe emotional burden he was carrying. The pharmacist, with a
- [Targeting unnecessary use of medical consumables  ](https://anmj.org.au/targeting-unnecessary-use-of-medical-consumables/) - Designing material waste out of our clinical workflow improves efficiency while reducing the environmental and financial cost of healthcare without compromising patient outcomes. This case study demonstrates how our knowledge on the ward can target unnecessary use of medical consumables and advocating how an apparent small change can lead to a big impact. Working as
- [Welcoming midwives: A look back at the ANF’s 2013 name change to recognise midwife members](https://anmj.org.au/welcoming-midwives-a-look-back-at-the-anfs-2013-name-change-to-recognise-midwife-members/) - On July 25, 2013, the union formally changed its name from the ANF to the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) to acknowledge the valuable skills and knowledge of midwife members. History was made after the union’s then Federal Secretary, Lee Thomas, and late Senior Federal Industrial Officer Nick Blake, put the case forward at
- [Women’s Health Week 2024: Your voice, your choice ](https://anmj.org.au/womens-health-week-2024-your-voice-your-choice/) - As Women’s Health Week rolls around for its 12th year, Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is shining a spotlight on some of the biggest issues in women’s health, under the banner of ‘Your voice. Your choice’. Held during the first week of September, Women’s Health Week aims to raise awareness of the health and wellbeing
- [New scholarship to deliver 100 endometriosis nurses to regional, rural and remote areas](https://anmj.org.au/new-scholarship-to-deliver-100-endometriosis-nurses-to-regional-rural-and-remote-areas/) - A new scholarship program is aiming to deliver 100 trained Endometriosis Specialty Nurses to regional, rural and remote communities across Australia that often experience limited access to health services. Launched by Endometriosis Australia, in partnership with the Australian College of Nursing (ACN), each scholarship is valued at $2,900. During the 10-week unit of study, nurses
- [‘Why do people treat us differently?’: Urgent action needed to break down dementia stigma ](https://anmj.org.au/why-do-people-treat-us-differently-urgent-action-needed-to-break-down-dementia-stigma/) - Poor understanding of dementia among everyday Australians is leading to stigma and discrimination, new research released during Dementia Action Week has revealed.
- [NMBA freezes registration fees for 2024/25 ](https://anmj.org.au/nmba-freezes-registration-fees-for-2024-25/) - The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) have frozen their annual registration fee for nurses and midwives for 2024/25 The cost of renewing general registration for nurses and midwives will remain at $185. The fee will cover the upcoming registration period commencing on 1 April 2025.
- [NSW nurses and midwives to stage 24-hour strike next week](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-nurses-and-midwives-to-stage-24-hour-strike-next-week/) - NSW nurses and midwives are ramping up their campaign for a 15% pay increase, planning a 24-hour strike next week over the state government’s ongoing refusal to engage in meaningful negotiations. Thousands of nurses and midwives will strike for 24 hours from the start of morning shift on Tuesday 24 September. However, life-preserving staff will
- [Humour a primary health initiative, says nurse comedian  ](https://anmj.org.au/humour-a-primary-health-initiative-says-nurse-comedian/) - Lucy Downey, a nurse from NSW, has been telling stories all her life, but her journey into stand-up comedy began at a rather unexpected moment—her father’s wake. “He always said I was a good storyteller and that I should get up and share them. I thought, what better time than now, in front of over
- [Senate Inquiry backs paid reproductive leave to manage menopause and perimenopause](https://anmj.org.au/senate-inquiry-backs-paid-reproductive-leave-to-manage-menopause-and-perimenopause/) - A Senate Inquiry examining issues related to menopause and perimenopause has recommended the federal government consider introducing paid gender-inclusive reproductive leave in the National Employment Standards (NES) and modern awards to help people manage symptoms and a range of impacts. It has also called on the federal government to consider how to expand the scope
- [National nursing workforce strategy open for public consultation ](https://anmj.org.au/national-nursing-workforce-strategy-open-for-public-consultation/) - Nurses and nursing students are amongst those being encouraged to provide feedback on the national nursing workforce strategy, now open for public consultation.
- [‘Not fast enough’: Report calls for urgent global action to achieve gender equality by 2030](https://anmj.org.au/not-fast-enough-report-calls-for-urgent-global-action-to-achieve-gender-equality-by-2030/) - Unless rapid progress is made, the global community will fall short of achieving gender equality by the Sustainable Development Goals’ (SDGs) 2030 deadline, a new UN Women report has found. Although there have been inroads, with women now holding one in every four parliamentary seats and the percentage of women and girls living in extreme
- [Decades of advocacy for NPs](https://anmj.org.au/decades-of-advocacy-for-nps/) - In the late 80s, early in my grad year, I recall telling my mum I was puzzled that the most experienced nurses were the furthest from the bedside. Pathways to promotion led away from clinical practice to management and education roles. The 90’s saw the introduction of Clinical Nurse Specialists and Clinical Nurse Consultants, followed
- [New online resource aims to increase antimicrobial resistance knowledge](https://anmj.org.au/new-online-resource-aims-to-increase-antimicrobial-resistance-knowledge/) - Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has launched a new resource that provides evidence-based information to inform policy and action to reduce the impact of antimicrobial resistance on human, animal and environmental health. Now live, AMR Action and Insights was developed as part of CSIRO’s minimising AMR initiative. AMR occurs when disease-causing microbes evolve to resist
- [Why sex, gender, and sexuality census data matters for inclusive healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/why-sex-gender-and-sexuality-census-data-matters-for-inclusive-healthcare/) - Earlier this month, the federal government announced it would scrap questions about gender and sexuality from the 2026 census.1 However, within 48 hours, this decision was reversed.2 But why does this matter? Firstly, it’s important to understand that sex, gender, and sexuality mean different things in this context. Sex is most simply understood as referring
- [‘We’ve been ignored’: NSW nurses and midwives set to strike tomorrow for fair pay](https://anmj.org.au/weve-been-ignored-nsw-nurses-and-midwives-set-to-strike-tomorrow-for-fair-pay/) - NSW public sector nurses and midwives are going on strike in their fight for a fair pay increase.
- [World Sepsis Day: Ask ‘Could it be sepsis?’](https://anmj.org.au/world-sepsis-day-ask-could-it-be-sepsis/) - On a seemingly ordinary day in 2023, Laura Remy’s life took a dramatic turn. What started off as a mild cough and fever, quickly escalated into life-threatening sepsis. “I initially continued to work and dismissed my symptoms as minor. However, the symptoms worsened dramatically overnight, with chest pain, severe chills, and vomiting. I had an
- [Proposed paid parental leave changes to worsen women’s financial security ](https://anmj.org.au/proposed-paid-parental-leave-changes-to-worsen-womens-financial-security/) - Proposed amendments by the Coalition to the government’s legislation on superannuation for Commonwealth Paid Parental Leave (PPL) have been slammed by unions, including the ANMF. The Coalition’s proposals would see workers, mostly women, tap into their retirement savings by cashing out of super on Commonwealth PPL through taking a lump-sum or extra leave. The federal
- [Independent expert midwife to lead Tasmanian maternity services investigation ](https://anmj.org.au/independent-expert-midwife-to-lead-tasmanian-maternity-services-investigation/) - The Tasmanian Government has announced the appointment of an independent expert to lead the rapid independent investigation into maternity services at the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH). Midwife, nurse and health consultant Amanda Singleton has extensive experience, including in the governance and management of maternity services in both rural and metropolitan settings. She also has regulatory
- [New Aged Care Act introduced to Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/new-aged-care-act-introduced-to-parliament/) - The highly anticipated new rights-based Aged Care Act, stemming from the first recommendation of the landmark Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, has now been introduced to Parliament. The new Aged Care Act legislation includes: A Statement of Rights for older Australians in aged care, with a positive duty for providers to uphold
- [Australians with diabetes missing out on vital medications like Ozempic that lower heart and kidney disease risk](https://anmj.org.au/australians-with-diabetes-missing-out-on-vital-medications-like-ozempic-that-lower-heart-and-kidney-disease-risk/) - Only one in three people with type 2 diabetes are receiving early treatment with additional medicines that protect their heart and kidneys, research led by UNSW has revealed. The study, published in The British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, analysed dispensing records of a 10% random sample of adults on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). It
- [Midwives in prime position to help pregnant women give up alcohol, research says](https://anmj.org.au/midwives-in-prime-position-to-help-pregnant-women-give-up-alcohol-research-say/) - Midwives are well-positioned to help support pregnant women to stop or cut down on alcohol and other drug use and to improve outcomes for themselves and their children, according to researchers. A new South Australian initiative is examining the role midwives can play in promoting key public health messages and supporting abstinence during pregnancy. The
- [The Evitable Conflict: ANMF's Submission to the Select Committee on Adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI)](https://anmj.org.au/the-evitable-conflict-anmfs-submission-to-the-select-committee-on-adopting-artificial-intelligence-ai/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) recently made a submission to the Australian Government’s Senate Select Committee on Adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Committee sought evidence on opportunities and impacts for Australia arising out of the uptake of AI technologies. This included consideration of recent national and international trends and opportunities, potential benefits and
- [A big heart](https://anmj.org.au/a-big-heart/) - This article discusses reflections from staff and family (who consented and contributed to this article); and provides an insight into clinical collaboration to assist a person accessing voluntary assisted dying (VAD) to become an organ donor. The NSW Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) Act (2022) allows an eligible adult to access medical help to end their
- [Voluntary assisted dying eases suffering for terminally ill Australians, but more work to do](https://anmj.org.au/voluntary-assisted-dying-eases-suffering-for-terminally-ill-australians-but-more-work-to-do/) - Nearly 2,500 Australians have chosen to end their life using voluntary assisted dying (VAD) since it was legalised, a landmark report from advocacy group Go Gentle Australia has revealed.
- [Tasmanian nurses and midwives stop work; maternity unit investigation launched ](https://anmj.org.au/tasmanian-nurses-and-midwives-stop-work-maternity-unit-investigation-launched/) - Nurses and midwives held stop-work meetings across Tasmania last week to protest unsafe workloads, and the state government has announced an investigation into maternity services at the Royal Hobart Hospital. Members held stop work meetings at the Royal Hobart Hospital, the Launceston General Hospital, and in the north at the North-West Regional Hospital and Mersey
- [Nurse living with obesity champions fight to help others](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-living-with-obesity-champions-fight-to-help-others/) - Catherine Smith’s relationship with obesity runs deep. There’s a strong family history – one of her parents underwent bariatric surgery. While a close relative died from obesity-related conditions. Her own experience emerged in her mid-to-late 30s, triggered by having an early hysterectomy to help prevent ovarian cancer, which her mother passed away from, that caused
- [Researchers make a breakthrough in antibiotic resistance](https://anmj.org.au/researchers-make-a-breakthrough-in-antibiotic-resistance/) - Researchers have used advanced data science to describe and predict when resistance to antibiotics will emerge during treatment for a bacterial infection, based purely on the knowledge of pre-existing bacterial resistance mutations. The development of medicines to treat infections cannot keep up with the rise in antimicrobial resistance, one of the top global public health
- [Electronic communications must be available for voluntary assisted dying](https://anmj.org.au/electronic-communications-must-be-available-for-voluntary-assisted-dying/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has released a joint statement with other national peak health organisations calling on the government to urgently amend the Commonwealth Criminal Code to allow electronic communications, including telehealth, to be made available for voluntary assisted dying. Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) is now legal across most parts of Australia
- [‘Knock off after work’: Right to disconnect laws start today](https://anmj.org.au/knock-off-after-work-right-to-disconnect-laws-start-today/) - Millions of Australian workers can now refuse to respond to their bosses outside of work hours as landmark 'right to disconnect' laws come into effect.
- [New medicines added to 60-day prescriptions](https://anmj.org.au/new-medicines-added-to-60-day-prescriptions/) - An extra 100 medicines, including for treatment of asthma, depression, glaucoma and Parkinson’s disease, have been added to the federal government’s 60-day prescription scheme. Introduced last September in a bid to make it easier and cheaper for Australians to access many vital medicines, the third and final stage of the scheme’s rollout came into effect
- [‘It’s humbling’: Nursing lecturer helps guide next generation  ](https://anmj.org.au/its-humbling-nursing-lecturer-helps-guide-next-generation/) - “As nurses, from our graduate year onwards, we are teachers,” says La Trobe University nursing lecturer Niki Lillibridge. “We teach our own as soon as we become professionals.” So, after working in nursing education and critical care for over 15 years, its little wonder she transitioned into academia, where she now plays a pivotal role
- [Super to be paid on parental leave](https://anmj.org.au/super-to-be-paid-on-parental-leave/) - Around 180,000 families each year are set to benefit from new laws to pay superannuation on Commonwealth Paid Parental Leave.
- [Study exploring factors that shape RNs’ engagement in mandatory reporting of child maltreatment](https://anmj.org.au/study-exploring-factors-that-shape-rns-engagement-in-mandatory-reporting-of-child-maltreatment/) - Child maltreatment has significant impacts on Australia’s children and children globally. Early identification is key to supporting children and families towards favourable outcomes. Mandatory reporting therefore plays an important role in the identification and response to child maltreatment worldwide, with many countries implementing legislation mandating certain people (usually professionals) report suspected cases of child maltreatment.
- [Contraceptive and medical abortion model of care in rural areas   ](https://anmj.org.au/contraceptive-and-medical-abortion-model-of-care-in-rural-areas/) - An innovative co-designed model of care has been developed to help elevate the role of nurses in contraceptive and medical abortion care in rural and regional areas. The model has been developed as part of the landmark ORIENT study which involves nurses gaining the knowledge and skills to insert contraceptive devices and support delivery of
- [CLEEN study: Wiping infections away  ](https://anmj.org.au/cleen-study-wiping-infections-away/) - Cleaning shared medical equipment at least once a day, even with a disinfectant wipe, can save lives by reducing infections in hospitals, new world-first research shows. The finding is based on results from the CLEEN study, an Australian randomised control trial which found the intervention resulted in a 35% reduction in healthcare-associated infections. The research,
- [New legislation set to provide payments for student nurses and midwives during clinical placement](https://anmj.org.au/new-legislation-set-to-provide-payments-for-student-nurses-and-midwives-on-clinical-placement/) - Student nurses and midwives are one step closer to receiving financial support during their mandatory clinical placements, thanks to new legislation.
- [Virtual reality to improve mealtimes for people with dementia   ](https://anmj.org.au/virtual-reality-to-improve-mealtimes-for-people-with-dementia/) - A virtual reality experience to assist health workers in caring for patients with dementia at mealtimes has been recently released by Dementia Australia. Dementia Australia’s Dine with Ted allows participants to engage in a dining experience from the perspective of a person living with dementia. The three-hour virtual reality program uses avatar technology to educate
- [New guidelines for early menopause diagnosis and management   ](https://anmj.org.au/new-guidelines-for-early-menopause-diagnosis-and-management/) - Research has led to the development of a practical framework to help health professionals worldwide diagnose and manage early menopause. It comes as a Senate Inquiry currently examines issues around menopause and perimenopause for Australian women, including impact on their work. The diagnosis of early menopause is often not straightforward unless a clear medical cause,
- [Nuts should be included in weight-loss diets, researchers say](https://anmj.org.au/nuts-should-be-included-in-weight-loss-diets-researchers-say/) - A handful of nuts could prove beneficial when it comes to weight loss, according to new research from the University of South Australia. Including nuts in calorie-controlled weight loss diets does not hinder weight loss, like many believe, and instead may have the opposite effect. Analysing the findings of seven randomised controlled trials that assessed
- [Developing digital health capability in residential aged care](https://anmj.org.au/developing-digital-health-capability-in-residential-aged-care-facilities-lessons-for-successful-implementation-of-the-royal-commission-into-aged-care-quality-and-safety-report-recommendation-68/) - Recommendation 68 of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety Report1 outlined implementation of digital technology and My Health Record into residential aged care facilities (RACFs). Progress on implementation of Recommendations2 focus on My Health Record (MHR) and several funded projects to support registration of MHR and electronic medication charts.2 Further projects are
- [Australia facing shortfall of over 70,000 nurses by 2035, report reveals](https://anmj.org.au/australia-facing-shortfall-of-over-70000-nurses-by-2035-report-reveals/) - Australia is facing a shortage of more than 70,000 nurses by 2035, according to national projections revealed in the Department of Health and Aged Care’s Nursing Supply and Demand Study. The study used data collected between 2014 and 2022 to forecast the supply and demand for nurses over the next 12 years. The model split
- [Reducing the noise in ICU](https://anmj.org.au/reducing-the-noise-in-icu/) - Western Australian research is aiming to decrease noise levels in intensive care units (ICUs) by implementing improvements in acoustic design. Up to 50% of patients in ICUs experience sleep disturbance due to noise which can hinder recovery and negatively impact their health. Staff report noise levels negatively impact their work performance, patient connection and job satisfaction.
- [‘Believe in yourself’: Why I returned to nursing after a 20-year break](https://anmj.org.au/believe-in-yourself-why-i-returned-to-nursing-after-a-20-year-break/) - Victorian registered nurse Sally Baker’s life changed dramatically after discovering she had lipoedema, a chronic health condition often mistaken for obesity or lymphoedema. The connective tissue disorder, which mostly affects women, is characterised by abnormal growth of adipose tissue in the legs, buttocks and, sometimes, arms, resulting in a disproportionate body shape, often accompanied by
- [Why I joined the ANMF](https://anmj.org.au/why-i-joined-the-anmf/) - Victorian nurse Francis joined the ANMF at the earliest opportunity. Back then, in his second year of an undergraduate degree in nursing, he frequently heard friends discuss how the union empowers and advocates for nurses. “I thought I’d get a head start and join the union to begin understanding what nursing is all about outside
- [The crisis of gendered occupational violence and aggression](https://anmj.org.au/the-crisis-of-gendered-occupational-violence-and-aggression/) - The global crisis of gender-based violence is inseparable from occupational violence and aggression (OVA) experienced by the healthcare workforce. As most of the healthcare workforce are nurses, midwives, and care workers, the majority of whom are women, there are undeniable gender-based patterns inherent in both linked phenomena. Women face greater risks of violence and aggression
- [How super works: Strengthening public understanding](https://anmj.org.au/how-super-works-strengthening-public-understanding/) - Three quarters of Australians believe super is important to their future wellbeing – yet public understanding of how super works to grow savings remains low, according to new research. For example, the survey found seven in 10 Australians don’t know the current super guarantee rate (11.5%), 75% couldn’t nominate super’s low tax rate, while a
- [Australia falling short in supporting military veterans with the basics, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/australia-falling-short-in-supporting-military-veterans-with-the-basics-study-finds/) - Australia isn’t doing enough to support military veterans once they finish serving, according to a new study. Flinders University and La Trobe University researchers argue that too much emphasis is being placed on psychiatric and psychological support and medical interventions for mental health care, yet not enough is being done to ensure veterans have the
- [Woman sentenced for working as a nurse without registration at Gold Coast hospital](https://anmj.org.au/woman-sentenced-for-working-as-a-nurse-without-registration-at-gold-coast-hospital/) - A Gold Coast woman who worked without registration at a Gold Coast Hospital for two years after her registration lapsed has been fined $5,000 and ordered to pay $1,750 in legal costs. The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) prosecuted the woman for holding herself out as an enrolled nurse when she was not registered,
- [Trailblazing nurse receives NAIDOC lifetime achievement award](https://anmj.org.au/trailblazing-nurse-receives-naidoc-lifetime-achievement-award/) - Registered nurse and long-time Indigenous rights activist Aunty Dulcie Flower says she’s never considered she has a legacy to leave. “I’m just me, going about my business,” says the 85-year old who is the recipient of this year’s National NAIDOC Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. “I am blessed to have the privilege of working with Aboriginal
- [Nurses on the frontline of Australia’s AIDS crisis ](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-on-the-frontline-of-australias-aids-crisis/) - A new book chronicles the role nurses played during the AIDS pandemic after the emergence of HIV, and how unions drove infection control policy, including universal precautions. “HIV and AIDS devastated communities across Australia in the 1980s and 1990s. Bringing together stories from across the country, historian Geraldine Fela documents the extraordinary care, compassion and
- [‘On notice’: Health Star Ratings set to become mandatory if industry fails to improve infant nutrition](https://anmj.org.au/on-notice-health-star-ratings-set-to-become-mandatory-if-industry-fails-to-improve-infant-nutrition/) - Public health groups have welcomed government commitment to make Health Star Ratings mandatory if the food industry continues to drag its feet. After a decade of inaction, health groups have praised news that food regulators will make Health Star Ratings compulsory if the industry fails to reach 70% voluntary uptake by November next year. At
- [Voluntary Assisted Dying in Australia: How is it working so far?](https://anmj.org.au/voluntary-assisted-dying-in-australia-how-is-it-working-so-far/) - Voluntary assisted dying, now legal in all Australian states, is growing in acceptance as a legitimate end-of-life care option, according to a new national report. Advocacy group Go Gentle Australia’s National Voluntary Assisted Dying Survey 2023 asked people involved in VAD, including those with terminal illnesses and their families, clinicians, and policy experts, what was
- [Saving lives: Nurse and midwife to patient ratios ](https://anmj.org.au/saving-lives-nurse-and-midwife-to-patient-ratios/) - Australian nurses and midwives have been trailblazers in fighting for and securing nurse/midwife to patient ratios.
- [Historic merger of nursing associations in 1924 lays foundations for ANMF](https://anmj.org.au/foundations-of-the-anmf/) - The Australasian Trained Nurses’ Association, with branches in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania, and the Royal Victorian Trained Nurses’ Association, which operated solely in Victoria, merged to benefit the profession in 1924. Both associations had long recognised the advantages of a merger, but various differences posed challenges. However, by June
- [Rollout of nurse and midwife to patient ratios in Western Australia welcomed by ANF  ](https://anmj.org.au/rollout-of-nurse-and-midwife-to-patient-ratios-in-western-australia-welcomed-by-anf/) - After years of campaigning for safe staffing levels, nurse-to-patient ratios will be rolled out across Western Australia in October. WA’s North Metropolitan Health Service (NMHS) will begin implementing nurse and midwife to patient ratios across its general medical and general surgical wards. This first phase of the staged implementation will commence at the NMHS at
- [Research into recently graduated RNs’ nutritional knowledge, attitude, and practice](https://anmj.org.au/research-into-recently-graduated-rns-nutritional-knowledge-attitude-and-practice/) - Nurses are uniquely positioned to deliver nutrition-focussed patient education related to health promotion and disease management yet widespread evidence of sufficient nutrition instruction in the nursing curricula is not available. A research team from Deakin University (Dr Claire Margerison, Assoc Professor Ewa Szymlek-Gay, Dr Jennifer McCann, and Masters of Human Nutrition Candidate Cathy Stanguts) are
- [Unions call for more practical details on right to disconnect ](https://anmj.org.au/unions-call-for-more-practical-details-on-right-to-disconnect/) - Unions are seeking more practical details around the new right to disconnect laws which come into effect at the end of this month. The right to disconnect award terms are currently being developed by the Fair Work Commission and due to come into effect on 26 August 2024. The new workplace right to disconnect passed
- [Online calculator assesses personal long COVID risk ](https://anmj.org.au/online-calculator-assesses-personal-long-covid-risk/) - An online COVID-19 risk calculator that helps determine a person’s risk of developing long COVID is now available and may help encourage health prevention measures. “While many adults don’t see COVID-19 as a big issue now, many are concerned about getting long COVID. “The chance of suffering long COVID increases with every bout of COVID-19
- [Unions call for 10 days paid reproductive leave to support women battling menopause and perimenopause](https://anmj.org.au/unions-call-for-10-days-paid-reproductive-leave-to-support-women-battling-menopause-and-perimenopause/) - Australian women are being pushed out of the workforce early due to lack of support to deal with the symptoms of menopause or perimenopause, a Senate inquiry has heard.
- [Privately practising midwives rally against potential restrictions to scope of practice](https://anmj.org.au/privately-practising-midwives-rally-against-potential-restrictions-to-scope-of-practice/) - After more than two decades in the public health system, midwife Di Longworth ventured into private practice, offering midwifery services, including homebirths, to her local community.
- [Link between kneecap shape and osteoarthritis](https://anmj.org.au/link-between-kneecap-shape-and-osteoarthritis/) - The shape of a person’s kneecap could be an indicator of whether they’re more at risk of developing osteoarthritis, research shows. Yet the reason is not well understood, according to researchers from the Australian National University (ANU), who were left surprised by the findings. The ANU team set out to explore whether kneecap shape may
- [Remembering Evelyn Augusta Conyers](https://anmj.org.au/remembering-evelyn-augusta-conyers/) - A pioneering ANF leader and a force in Australian nursing (1870-1944). Many of the original members of the ANF were visionary leaders and activists for nurses and women, far ahead of their time. They laid the foundation for the ANMF’s achievements today. Evelyn Augusta Conyers, an attendee of the Australian Nursing Federation’s inaugural 1924 meeting,
- [NSW nurse makes badminton debut at Paris Olympics ](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-nurse-makes-badminton-debut-at-paris-olympics/) - Registered nurse Tiffany Ho admits she is an underdog as she heads off to Paris to compete in the badminton singles at her first Olympic Games. “For me, where I sit in the ranking, I’m in the bottom half. So, everyone will be tough, but that’s the exciting bit. It’s always going to be a
- [Inside Maggie Beer’s ‘Big Mission’ to transform food in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/inside-maggie-beers-big-mission-to-transform-food-in-aged-care/) - “I’m on my way to a lunch appointment but I’ve got to say, I’m a little nervous,” says Australian food icon Maggie Beer, in the opening scene of her new TV series for the ABC, Maggie Beer’s Big Mission, which premieres tonight. This is not your typical lunch but rather Beer’s “groundbreaking experiment” aimed at
- [Continuous IV antibiotic infusion more effective at combatting adult sepsis](https://anmj.org.au/continuous-rather-than-intermittent-iv-antibiotic-infusion-more-effective-to-combat-sepsis/) - Changing the way commonly used antibiotics are given to adult patients with sepsis will save thousands of lives a year globally, according to research by the University of Queensland and The George Institute for Global Health A clinical trial and systematic review have shown that intravenously administering commonly used β-lactam antibiotics via continuous infusion –
- [Gender assumptions and the value of work](https://anmj.org.au/gender-assumptions-and-the-value-of-work/) - The recent Fair Work Commission aged care work value decision confirmed that the work of aged care sector employees and nurses has been undervalued on the basis of gender assumptions.1 The decision sets out a fascinating history of how and why gender-based assumptions about the value of women’s work has permeated Australia’s industrial relations system
- [New powers allow health regulator to ban unregistered practitioners](https://anmj.org.au/new-powers-allow-health-regulator-to-ban-unregistered-practitioners/) - Unregistered practitioners, including those who have been suspended from practising, can be prevented from treating patients under a suite of new powers afforded to Australia’s health regulator. The public will also have more information about practitioners on the public register, including if they use an alternative name to practise, in new changes to enable the
- [Applications open for free nursing and midwifery degrees in Victoria](https://anmj.org.au/applications-open-for-free-nursing-and-midwifery-degrees-in-victoria/) - Applications for the third round of the Victorian government’s undergraduate (entry to practice) scholarship program, offering free education for new domestic students enrolling in a professional entry-level nursing or midwifery course in 2023 and 2024, are now open. The scholarship is part of the government’s $270 million Making It Free to Study Nursing and Midwifery
- [Government initiatives to strengthen nursing workforce in primary care](https://anmj.org.au/government-to-strengthen-nursing-workforce-in-primary-care/) - Peak nursing bodies have welcomed initiatives to bolster the workforce in primary care, including the national program to increase student nursing placements in primary care. The federal government announced $4.2 million for the National Nurse Clinical Placements Program (NNCPP) in the 2023-24 Budget. Federal Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney, a RN
- [Why nurses and midwives need to get political](https://anmj.org.au/why-nurses-and-midwives-need-to-get-political/) - In the early days of her career, Juliane Samara often heard people suggest nurses shouldn't engage in politics. She never shared the view.
- [Four in 10 aged care residents malnourished](https://anmj.org.au/four-in-10-aged-care-residents-malnourished/) - Four in 10 Australian aged care residents are malnourished, a new study has revealed, prompting calls for a national screening program to identify those at highest risk. The first large-scale study examining malnutrition in nursing homes found 40% of residents were malnourished, with 6% categorised as severely malnourished. The results have prompted warnings from the
- [Is it time to check back in with your insurance?](https://anmj.org.au/is-it-time-to-check-back-in-with-your-insurance/) - Having insurance through your super account can help ensure you and your family are covered if the worst happens. At HESTA, all eligible members receive insurance automatically once they’re aged over 25 and have more than $6,000 in their account and their account is not inactive. In fact, some members choose to increase the amount
- [ANMF condemns aged care providers for reclassifying lifestyle staff to meet mandated care minutes](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-condemns-aged-care-providers-for-reclassifying-lifestyle-and-allied-health-staff-to-meet-mandated-care-minutes/) - Despite being funded to deliver landmark aged care reforms, some providers are undermining the government's efforts, the ANMF says.
- [Q&A: A day in the life of an Organ Donation Specialist Nurse](https://anmj.org.au/qa-a-day-in-the-life-of-an-organ-donation-specialist-nurse/) - Samantha Stones is a Donation Specialist Nurse at Western Health. She chatted to the ANMJ about her role in the lead up to annual DonateLife Week. What inspired you to become a Donation Specialist Nurse? I feel that I have lived a life that has been touched by organ donation. When I was younger, I
- [Achieving health equity for women and girls](https://anmj.org.au/achieving-health-equity-for-women-and-girls/) - “It’s high time that our nation, and indeed the world, had a serious discussion about women’s health,” declared Ged Kearney, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, at the 2024 World Health Summit Regional Meeting, held in Melbourne earlier this year. Speaking on a panel of women’s health experts discussing key challenges to achieving health
- [Fair Work Commission hands down decision on timing of pay rises for aged care workers](https://anmj.org.au/fair-work-commission-hands-down-decision-on-timing-of-pay-rises-for-aged-care-workers/) - Historic wage increases awarded to aged care workers will be delivered in two tranches from the start of next year, the Fair Work Commission (FWC) has decided. In March, the FWC handed down final increases in its Stage 3 decision of the ANMF’s Aged Care Work Value Case for aged care workers except RNs and
- [Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarships now open](https://anmj.org.au/primary-care-nursing-and-midwifery-scholarships-now-open/) - Interested in advancing your career in primary care? Then check out the Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Program, recently launched to support registered nurses and midwives to complete postgraduate study to work across the sector, including those who want to become nurse practitioners and endorsed midwives. Funded by the Australian Government, the $50.2 million
- ['You're not alone': Nurses open up on battle with Long COVID](https://anmj.org.au/youre-not-alone-nurses-share-battle-with-long-covid/) - A year ago, RN Bronwyn led an active and outgoing lifestyle, even captaining her local footy team. Then, Long COVID struck.
- [Struggling with mental health and climate distress? Get out and plant a tree](https://anmj.org.au/struggling-with-mental-health-and-climate-distress-get-out-and-plant-a-tree/) - Planet Ark is encouraging Australians to get outdoors to do something good for their mental health this National Tree Day, 28 July, with research suggesting climate-related impacts on mental health are significantly affecting people’s wellbeing. Eco-anxiety and climate distress are terms used to identify the feelings of concern and distress that result from climate change.
- [HPV Self-collection for Cervical Screening: Offering a role for every nurse and midwife](https://anmj.org.au/https-acpcc-org-au-self-collection-campaign/) - You don’t need to be a cervical screening provider to support informed uptake of cervical screening. Nurses and midwives play a critical role in supporting their patients to make informed choices, and to have positive experiences within the healthcare system. The Australian Government is funding a national campaign for healthcare providers and consumers to increase
- [Finding the right words – talking and asking about burnout](https://anmj.org.au/https-nursemidwifehpa-org-au-our-services-clinical-serviceutm_sourceanmjutm_mediumsponsored_contentutm_campaignburnout_sponsored/) - Burnout in the nursing and midwifery professions is real and should not be underestimated. Let’s all take burnout seriously, be aware of the symptoms and work together to prevent it. While no nurse, midwife or student should experience burnout, unfortunately many do says Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia (NMHPA) Deputy Director Mark Aitken, who like
- [Distance from friends and family makes early career nurses think twice about going rural](https://anmj.org.au/distance-from-friends-and-family-makes-early-career-nurses-think-twice-about-going-rural/) - Building social connections and creating community ties could help recruit and retain early career nurses to work in rural locations, according to a new research paper. Led by Elyce Green, from Three Rivers University Department of Rural Health at Charles Sturt University, the study set out to identify the influences and drawbacks for early career
- [Gender disparity in loss of exercise habits](https://anmj.org.au/gender-disparity-in-loss-of-exercise-habits/) - Forming a long-term recreational exercise habit as a young person has a beneficial impact on physical and mental health later in life, but some groups, such as females and academic high-achievers, miss out on these benefits disproportionately. A University of Adelaide study found females, people with low self-efficacy, reluctant exercisers, higher academic achievers, and those
- [New AI tool to help beat brain tumours](https://anmj.org.au/new-ai-tool-to-help-beat-brain-tumours/) - A new AI tool to more quickly and accurately classify brain tumours has been developed to enhance patient diagnosis and treatment. A new AI tool to more quickly and accurately classify brain tumours has been developed to enhance patient diagnosis and treatment. Australian National University (ANU) researchers, in collaboration with experts from the National Cancer
- [Nurse has registration cancelled for groping unconscious patients](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-has-registration-cancelled-for-groping-unconscious-patients/) - A nurse has had his registration cancelled and been disqualified from reapplying until April 2025 after intentionally touching and, in one case, groping the breasts of two unconscious female patients. The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) referred Mr Blair Easdon to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (the tribunal) after he self-notified to
- [Explainer: All you need to know about the ANMF's Work Value Cases ](https://anmj.org.au/explainer-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-anmfs-work-value-cases/) - The ANMF is currently running two Work Value cases at the Fair Work Commission – The Aged Care Industry Case and The Nurses’ and Midwives’ Case. It has developed two FAQs to help members better understand the cases, why they are important, and the potential outcomes. The Current ANMF Work Value Cases FAQ sets out specific
- [Experiencing hearing loss or tinnitus following acute COVID-19 infection? Researchers want to hear from you](https://anmj.org.au/experiencing-hearing-loss-or-tinnitus-following-acute-covid-19-infection-researchers-want-to-hear-from-you/) - Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) following acute COVID-19 infection is a poorly understood phenomenon, however, the existence of a link has been supported by research. While causes remain largely unknown, so too does the impact that hearing disturbances may be having on people’s personal, professional and social lives. To fill the gaps in this area,
- [Australians fare well in health report card despite ongoing COVID impact](https://anmj.org.au/australians-fare-well-in-health-report-card-despite-ongoing-covid-impact/) - Australians’ overall health continues to fare well when compared with similar countries despite significant impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing burden of chronic conditions. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW) biennial flagship report card of Australians’ health was launched this week by Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler. The
- [AI and its impact on healthcare- Webinar catchup](https://anmj.org.au/ai-and-its-impact-on-healthcare/) - Did you miss our recent webinar on the ramifications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on nursing and midwifery? In partnership with the Digital Health Agency the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) convened a webinar led by digital experts to discuss AI’s multifaceted dimensions and its consequential impacts on healthcare delivery. This included its integration within
- [Discover the Future of Nursing and Midwifery: A Digital Health Revolution ](https://anmj.org.au/discover-the-future-of-nursing-and-midwifery-a-digital-health-revolution/) - Welcome to the ANMF Podcast, produced in collaboration with the Australian Digital Health Agency. This podcast episode is a must-listen for all healthcare professionals.
- [Getting to know Lauren- A celebration of nurses with “Five of My Life” Nigel Marsh ](https://anmj.org.au/getting-to-know-lauren-a-celebration-of-nurses-with-five-of-my-life-nigel-marsh/) - The third podcast in the ANMF’s “Five of My Life challenge” with Nigel Marsh is South Australian nurse is Lauren DeFazio. During the podcast Lauren reflects on a film, book, song, place and belonging that has meaning for her as she shares her story about nursing, motherhood, and embracing life’s twists and turns and finding
- [‘You feel humbled’: Nurses and midwives recognised in 2024 King’s Birthday Honours](https://anmj.org.au/you-feel-humbled-nurses-and-midwives-recognised-in-2024-kings-birthday-honours/) - Lesley Woolf originally wanted to join the Navy, but her father wouldn’t let her. So, she decided to become a nurse instead, embarking on a remarkable journey that has taken her across the country and now spanned more than five decades. The Northern Territory registered nurse and midwife is among hundreds of Australians recognised in
- [Queensland announces first nurse-led clinic site](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-announces-first-nurse-led-clinic-site/) - Queensland has announced the first location of four new promised nurse-led clinics aimed to improve healthcare access with a focus on women and girls. The Miles Government committed $46 million to deliver four walk-in clinics in regions that need it most as part of its Queensland Women and Girls’ Health Strategy 2032. The Adelaide Street
- [ACT NPs and authorised midwives to prescribe MS-2 Step](https://anmj.org.au/act-nps-and-authorised-midwives-to-prescribe-ms-2-step/) - Nurse practitioners and authorised midwives in the ACT will be able to prescribe abortion medication under legislation passed last week. Up until now, only medical practitioners have been allowed to prescribe oral MS-2 Step (mifepristone and misoprostol). The new legislation, the Health (Improved Abortion Access) Amendment Act ll 2024 passed in the ACT Legislative
- [Moral distress tool for midwifery practice](https://anmj.org.au/moral-distress-tool-for-midwifery-practice/) - Moral distress occurs when individuals experience a compromise to their moral beliefs. While validated tools exist to assess moral distress in various health professions, none are specifically tailored for midwifery in the Australian healthcare system. Midwife, clinical educator and researcher Wendy Foster and her colleagues conducted a series of studies, including a pilot study The
- [Cardio-fitness cuts death and disease by nearly 20%, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/cardio-fitness-cuts-death-and-disease-by-nearly-20-study-finds/) - Running, cycling, or swimming – whatever takes your fancy, if you regularly exercise, you’re on track for a long and healthy life, according to new research from the University of South Australia. Published in BJSM, the study found that for every 1-MET increase in cardiorespiratory fitness – the amount of energy used for quiet sitting
- [Victorian nurses and midwives approve improved 28.4% wages offer](https://anmj.org.au/victorian-nurses-and-midwives-accept-improved-28-4-wages-offer/) - After 51 days of protected industrial action, Victorian public sector nurses and midwives have voted to endorse an improved Allan Government offer of a 28.4% (compounded) wage increase by November 2027, as well as more than 70 improvements to allowances, penalties and terms and conditions. An ANMF (Vic Branch) statewide members’ meeting was held this
- [Nurse managers and leaders: new governance training available](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-managers-and-leaders-new-governance-training-available/) - Two new courses are now available for healthcare providers looking to upskill their nursing and midwifery managers and leaders in governance practices, including regulatory frameworks and risk management. Responding to the growing challenges faced by the health sector, the Governance Institute of Australia has launched its Governance in Health Program. Designed to foster good governance
- [Federal government announces $30 million investment in AI healthcare projects](https://anmj.org.au/federal-government-announces-30-million-investment-in-ai-healthcare-projects/) - A trial involving the use of 3D total skin imaging to help support clinicians in the early detection of melanoma is one of 10 new grants awarded by the federal government for AI projects in healthcare. The Albanese Government is investing almost $30 million in research into new ways to use artificial intelligence (AI) to
- [‘Count Us In’: National Summit demands action for millions of ‘forgotten’ Australians living with neurological conditions](https://anmj.org.au/count-us-in-national-summit-demands-action-for-millions-of-forgotten-australians-living-with-neurological-conditions/) - “There are millions of people, millions, living in Australia with neurological conditions. We need more thought, more organisation and more energy put into this particular sector of people,” says acclaimed comedian and disability advocate, Tim Ferguson, who lives with multiple sclerosis (MS). “We have to get all of our politicians, all of our decision-makers, to
- [Australian women drinking at dangerous levels, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/australian-women-drinking-at-dangerous-levels-study-finds/) - A worrying number of Australian women are drinking at dangerous levels despite understanding that it is likely to be causing them harm, Flinders University researchers have warned. The study found over 300,000 Australian women are regularly drinking at very high-risk levels (11 or more standard drinks in one sitting at least once per month), also
- [Calling all Australian midwives to undertake digital health survey](https://anmj.org.au/reducing-the-noise-in-icu-2/) - What digital tools do you use in your midwifery practice? Is access to digital health data helpful to women’s care? The Australian College of Midwives is undertaking a digital health landscape analysis of midwifery in Australia. In consultation with the Australian Digital health Agency, and practicing midwives, the survey is aimed to understand how midwives
- [New clinical care standard for heavy menstrual bleeding](https://anmj.org.au/new-clinical-care-standard-for-heavy-menstrual-bleeding-supports-greater-choice-in-treatment/) - Assistant Federal Health Minister Ged Kearney has urged women with heavy menstrual periods to seek help with a new menstrual bleeding clinical care standard released to support greater treatment options for women. “Heavy periods can seriously impact a woman’s quality of life. I know, I have had very personal experience of this, along with one
- [Placing mum in Residential Aged Care – thoughts of a nurse/daughter](https://anmj.org.au/placing-mum-in-residential-aged-care-thoughts-of-a-nurse-daughter/) - This article is offered as a personal reflection on my lived experience of placing my nonagenarian mother into residential aged care Of course, my personal lived experience is also inextricably intertwined with me being a nurse of 44 years. As much as I try, these two “personas” cannot be separated, and both are apparent every
- [100 Years Strong: The Australian Nursing & Midwifery Federation celebrates](https://anmj.org.au/100-years-strong-the-australian-nursing-midwifery-federation-celebrates/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) proudly marks its 100th year, celebrating a century of remarkable achievements and the strength of its members. Our story is one of purpose and passion, people and power. It’s a story of fighting for workers and their rights, and of protecting and promoting our members, our professions, and
- [National midwifery update](https://anmj.org.au/national-midwifery-update/) - “I didn’t know there was a midwife at the ANMF.” At a national conference in 2023, I was excited to run into a midwifery professor I had learned from during my Bachelor of Midwifery. We talked about my journey since my graduate year, and when I mentioned that I had been working for the union
- [‘Why would you do this to us?’: Northern Territory nurses and midwives rally against Middle Arm Industrial Precinct](https://anmj.org.au/why-would-you-do-this-to-us-northern-territory-nurses-and-midwives-rally-against-middle-arm-industrial-precinct/) - In April, Northern Territory (NT) nurses and midwives, flanked by healthcare colleagues, stood on the steps of NT Parliament to voice their opposition to the contentious Middle Arm Industrial Precinct and its potential health and climate impacts. A Senate Inquiry is currently scrutinising the development, particularly the federal government’s $1.5 billion funding commitment, and most
- [Nurses in GP clinics stuck ‘doing paperwork’ instead of treating patients](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-in-gp-clinics-stuck-doing-paperwork-instead-of-treating-patients/) - Four out of five nurses working in GP clinics are being bogged down with a long list of non-clinical, administrative work, rather than being fully utilised.
- [Now more than ever: Time for reconciliation](https://anmj.org.au/now-more-than-ever-time-for-reconciliation/) - National Reconciliation Week, from 27 May-3 June, is a time for all Australians to reflect on what their contribution to reconciliation in Australia might look like.
- [Evaluating virtual support services as a patient safety net in regional and rural hospitals](https://anmj.org.au/evaluating-virtual-support-services-as-a-patient-safety-net-in-regional-and-rural-hospitals/) - A new virtual support model of care introduced as a clinical deterioration safety net in rural and remote hospitals is to be evaluated for its impact on patient outcomes. The Western NSW Local Health District’s (WNSWLHD) vCare Virtual Support model of care was introduced in 2019, an additional function within its existing vCare service. It
- [One in four eligible mothers not taking up paid parental leave](https://anmj.org.au/one-in-four-eligible-mothers-not-taking-up-paid-parental-leave/) - About one in four eligible mothers, and over half of eligible fathers, were accessing government-funded paid parental leave prior to reforms to the program being introduced last year, according to a new report by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS). The report linked 2021 Census data with Australian Tax Office data to examine the
- [Australians living longer but in need of more support, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/australians-living-longer-but-in-need-of-more-support-study-finds/) - Australians are living longer but their impact on the healthcare industry is increasing, according to new research by the University of Adelaide. The study, led by Dr Liliana G. Ciobanu, and Head of the Psychiatry Discipline Associate Professor Scott R. Clark, was conducted by GBD Australia collaborators and examined Global Burden of Disease statistics from
- [Tasmania to introduce tougher penalties for people who assault frontline workers](https://anmj.org.au/tasmania-to-introduce-tougher-penalties-for-people-who-assault-frontline-workers/) - People who cause serious bodily harm to Tasmania’s frontline workers will face six months’ jail time, with the state government introducing legislation into Parliament this week to provide better protections. The Sentencing Amendment (Presumptive Sentencing for Assaults on Frontline Workers) Bill 2024 seeks to amend the Sentencing Act 1997 to set a presumption of minimum
- [Is your health service male friendly? Men’s Health Week 2024](https://anmj.org.au/is-your-health-service-male-friendly-mens-health-week-2024/) - How well does your health service engage men? Take a short questionnaire to audit how male-friendly your service is, for Men’s Health Week 2024. International Men’s Health Week runs from 10-16 June and is an opportunity to highlight the importance of men’s health, and to promote the health of men and boys. Men’s Health Week
- [New eLearning module on high risk medicines](https://anmj.org.au/new-elearning-module-on-high-risk-medicines/) - Do you work with high risk medicines? An updated eLearning module on the safe use of high risk medications is now available to health professionals. Anyone can access the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care resource which is free for nurses working in the public sector in most states and territories (all
- [Insufficient strategies to tackle 50% increase in ED violence](https://anmj.org.au/insufficient-strategies-to-tackle-50-increase-in-ed-violence/) - Aggression and violence against frontline workers in hospital emergency departments (EDs) is on the rise with current strategies to manage the issue perceived as insufficient. In-hospital assaults in Australia have increased by 60% in Victoria, 48% in Queensland, and 44% in New South Wales from 2015 to 2018, according to new research from Edith Cowan
- [The economic power of nursing care](https://anmj.org.au/the-economic-power-of-nursing-care/) - On 12 May we will celebrate International Nurses Day 2024, themed: Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Care. This will highlight the multifaceted impact of nursing on economies, emphasising the undeniable economic value generated by the compassionate care nurses provide worldwide. The economics of care and compassion are how much our profession contributes
- [Research highlights need for preparation resource to ready online nursing students](https://anmj.org.au/research-highlights-need-for-preparation-resource-to-ready-online-nursing-students/) - An online study preparation resource for student nurses to access when they receive their acceptance into a nursing course could lead to more successful progression, a new research paper has found. Undertaken by Angela Sheedy, Senior Research Officer at Charles Darwin University’s Menzies School of Medicine, the study set out to investigate and identify the
- [New resources to reduce asthma symptoms and improve the environment](https://anmj.org.au/national-asthma-council-releases-new-resources-to-help-gps-reduce-asthma-symptoms-and-improve-the-environment/) - The National Asthma Council Australia (NAC) has released new information on today’s World Environment Day to help GPs make choices that could reduce asthma symptoms, prevent severe exacerbations and, at the same time, help improve the health of the environment. Reducing the environmental impact of asthma treatment is the first statement from the NAC outlining
- [Australia’s minimum and award wages to increase by 3.75%](https://anmj.org.au/australias-minimum-and-award-wages-to-increase-by-3-75/) - Australia’s minimum and award wages will increase by 3.75%, the Fair Work Commission has announced at its Annual Wage Review hearing in Sydney this morning. The increase, effective from 1 July, will impact about 20.7% of the country’s workforce, or 2.6 million employees, who mostly work part-time, are predominantly women, and are more likely to
- [New report calls for faster MS diagnosis in Australia](https://anmj.org.au/new-report-calls-for-faster-ms-diagnosis-in-australia/) - Looking back, Laura Birchall believes she experienced years’ worth of MS symptoms that she simply dismissed at the time. “After I exercised my arms and my legs would be really tingly and my vision would go really dark, and I just thought it was because I was really bad at cardio,” she recalls. “When I
- [Heart Health Yarning Tool: new resource for shared decision making](https://anmj.org.au/heart-health-yarning-tool-new-resource-for-shared-decision-making/) - A new shared decision-making tool is now available to help health professionals discuss cardiovascular risk with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in a culturally safe and meaningful way. The Heart Health Yarning Tool is designed to help health professionals and consumers make informed choices once cardiovascular risk has been assessed using the new Australian
- [Exercise caution when taking nutritional advice from social media influencers, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/exercise-caution-when-taking-nutritional-advice-from-social-media-influencers-study-finds/) - Researchers say Australians should think twice about taking dietary and nutritional advice from social media after a national audit of influencer posts revealed nearly half contained inaccurate information. Deakin University’s Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN) examined nearly 700 Instagram posts by influencers and brands with more than 100,000 followers, finding 45% included false
- [Stress of notifications](https://anmj.org.au/the-economic-power-of-nursing-care-2/) - Earlier this year I had the privilege of representing the ANMF at a symposium hosted by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Authority (Ahpra) exploring the distress and stress experienced by practitioners involved in a regulatory process. The symposium was part of a project undertaken by an Expert Advisory Group (EAG) commissioned by Ahpra and the
- [Guidance needed in aged care to improve help for grieving families](https://anmj.org.au/guidance-needed-in-aged-care-to-improve-help-for-grieving-families/) - Government, researchers and aged care staff need to urgently come together to establish a formal approach to the grief and loss experienced by families in aged care, a Flinders University-led review has argued. The study reviewed 35 papers examining the grief, loss, and bereavement experience of family caregivers of those entering, living and dying in residential aged
- [Nurse midwife co-creator of women’s health app CHARLI](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-midwife-co-creator-of-womens-health-app-charligender-disparity-in-loss-of-exercise-habits/) - Clinical nurse and midwife Samantha Costa is co-creator of CHARLI, a recently launched women’s health app that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help empower women in their health and wellness. She talks with the ANMJ. CHARLI Health uses evidence-based, AI technology for women to track and manage their menstrual cycles, fertility, sexual health, pregnancy, peri/menopause
- [New technology aims to enable needle-free insulin delivery](https://anmj.org.au/new-technology-aims-to-enable-needle-free-insulin-delivery/) - An international team, led by researchers from Australia, have developed a system using nanotechnology that could allow people with diabetes to take oral insulin in the future, offering a more effective and needle-free alternative. The researchers say the new insulin could be eaten by taking a tablet or even embedded within a piece of chocolate.
- [Collaboration between a hospital nursing education unit and a nursing school in Adelaide enhances nursing education for early-career nurses](https://anmj.org.au/collaboration-between-a-hospital-nursing-education-unit-and-a-nursing-school-in-adelaide-enhances-nursing-education-for-early-career-nurses/) - A collaboration between the Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) Early Career Transition Programs (ECTPs) team and the Adelaide Nursing School (ANS – University of Adelaide) has led to improvements in the delivery of education for early-career nurses. It has also strengthened consistencies in the delivery of simulation training between undergraduate education and transition programs
- [Add virtual reality to exercise to ease chronic pain](https://anmj.org.au/add-virtual-reality-to-exercise-to-ease-chronic-pain/) - Incorporating virtual reality (VR) into your fitness regime can not only make exercise feel easier, but also chronic pain, according to University of South Australia researchers. Using a novel bike system, researchers found that when people combined VR with cycling, their exercise enjoyment increased by 20%, and they exercised for 15% longer. For patients with
- [Exercise prescriptions to help reduce depression](https://anmj.org.au/exercise-prescriptions-to-help-reduce-depression/) - Exercise can be a powerful tool to fight depression and should be routinely prescribed as part of treatment plans, according to Australian researchers. Activities such as walking, jogging, yoga and strength training were extremely beneficial for treating depression, University of Queensland researchers have found. UQ’s School of Psychology reviewed more than 200 studies looking at
- [‘We were all stuffed’: Spike in drinking during COVID-19 among working mums](https://anmj.org.au/we-were-all-stuffed-spike-in-drinking-during-covid-19-among-working-mums/) - New studies by La Trobe University have lifted the lid on the impact of additional responsibilities women assumed by ‘default’ during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a worrying spike in drinking among working mothers. Participants noted the lack of control they felt over their everyday lives and drinking as they juggled working from home, parenting, household,
- [Empowering Indigenous student nurses: A cadetship journey towards healthcare equity](https://anmj.org.au/empowering-indigenous-student-nurses-a-cadetship-journey-towards-healthcare-equity/) - This piece reflects on the experience of an Indigenous Nursing Cadetship from the perspectives of an Indigenous Nursing Cadet, a Nurse Researcher, and an Executive Director of Nursing. There is value in the opportunity to present individual viewpoints in collaboration as the authors believe in a genuine partnership between health services and Aboriginal and Torres
- [‘Outdated’ need for collaborative arrangements finally removed for Nurse Practitioners](https://anmj.org.au/outdated-need-for-collaborative-arrangements-finally-removed-for-nurse-practitioners/) - The ANMF has commended new legislation which removes outdated barriers which have prevented highly-trained nurse practitioners (NPs) and eligible midwives from working to their full scope.
- [Supporting novice perioperative nurses](https://anmj.org.au/supporting-novice-perioperative-nurses/) - A Queensland perioperative nurse and academic is exploring current transition to practice programs to assess the experience of nurses entering perioperative care roles for the first time. A perioperative nurse of five years in Bundaberg, Nick Nijkamp is currently conducting the research which seeks to identify how healthcare facilities can better support and educate nursing
- [Transition from paper records to digital for recording mandatory skills training to improve the quality of staff development data](https://anmj.org.au/transition-from-paper-records-to-digital-for-recording-mandatory-skills-training-to-improve-the-quality-of-staff-development-data/) - Practicing nurses and midwives are required to complete frequent mandatory practical training in accordance with their employer workforce requirements.1 “As a clinician, the thought had crossed my mind that if we QR code for so many things now, why do I need to fill in a paper form every time I attend mandatory training in
- [‘Plan for the worst, hope for the best’: Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner on matters of life and death](https://anmj.org.au/plan-for-the-worst-hope-for-the-best-palliative-care-nurse-practitioner-on-matters-of-life-and-death/) - As a young nurse working in oncology, Peter Jenkin began to question the often “futile treatment” given to patients and the lack of informed decision-making. Something inside him clicked, setting him on a path into palliative care nursing that has spanned nearly three decades. “I just went, this makes so much sense, that dying is
- [Winners announced for 2024 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards](https://anmj.org.au/winners-announced-for-2024-hesta-australian-nursing-midwifery-awards/) - A nurse and midwife from Victoria and a New South Wales-based organisation improving access to primary healthcare in remote and Aboriginal communities have been crowned winners at last night’s 2024 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards in Melbourne. Victorian nurse Cathy Halmarick, from Peninsula Health, took out Nurse of the Year in recognition of her
- [ANMF calls on government to swiftly implement aged care pay rises](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-calls-on-government-to-swiftly-implement-aged-care-pay-rises/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has called on the federal government to implement final pay increases for aged care workers, as determined by the Fair Work Commission (FWC), by 30 June. The FWC handed down its Stage 3 decision in March, determining that direct care workers, including Assistants in Nursing (AINs)/Personal Care Workers
- [Federal Budget 2024: ANMF welcomes funding for health and aged care](https://anmj.org.au/federal-budget-2024-anmf-welcomes-funding-for-health-and-aged-care/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has welcomed the Albanese Government’s $8.5 billion in last night’s 2024-25 Budget for health, including $2.8 billion to strengthen Medicare and $2.2 billion for aged care to continue implementation of the Royal Commission’s recommendations. Key Budget wins include new Medicare rebates for midwives to provide longer consultations before
- [Celebrating nurses: From heartfelt memories to inspirational insights: Meet Deb Butler](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-nurses-from-heartfelt-memories-to-inspirational-insights-meet-deb-butler/) - To celebrate nurses on International Nurses Day, 12 May, the ANMF is proud to introduce the second podcast from the “Five of My Life” series, where host Nigel Marsh interviews nurses and midwives unearthing the rich tapestry of their experiences. Using his formula Nigel asks his participants about a film, book, song, place and possession
- [Australian-first research centre for cancer survivors aims to revolutionise care](https://anmj.org.au/australian-first-research-centre-for-cancer-survivors-aims-to-revolutionise-care/) - A new research centre focused on improving the care and wellbeing of cancer survivors through evidence-based interventions will be established as part of a 10-year partnership between UNSW Sydney and Cancer Council NSW (CCNSW). The Australian Research Centre for Cancer Survivorship will inform practice, services and policy in the survivorship space across NSW and act
- [Research explores RNs’ and NPs’ willingness to participate in Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD)](https://anmj.org.au/research-explores-rns-and-nps-willingness-to-participate-in-voluntary-assisted-dying-vad/) - Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) is now a legal end-of-life option in most parts of Australia. The role of registered nurses and nurse practitioners in this practice varies between states and territories and, as VAD is relatively new in Australia, there is little research available on their willingness to participate. To address the gap, a research
- [McGrath Foundation launches ‘power of care’ nursing series](https://anmj.org.au/mcgrath-foundation-launches-power-of-care-nursing-series/) - The McGrath Foundation has launched a new content series celebrating the profound ‘power of care’ its dedicated network of breast cancer nurses provide to women and families impacted by the disease across Australia. The series features four real-life stories that shine a spotlight on the far-reaching impact of care, from receiving treatment close to home
- [Celebrating nurses and midwives launches on international days - A podcast series exploring their lives](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-nurses-and-midwives-launches-on-international-days-a-podcast-series-exploring-their-lives/) - In honour of International Day of the Midwife and International Nurses Day, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is inviting you to learn more about the extraordinary lives and views of your fellow nurses and midwives. Launching on International Day of the Midwife, renowned podcaster Nigel Marsh is interviewing nurses and midwives over the
- [‘Prac Payment’: Government to pay nursing and midwifery students $319 per week during clinical placements](https://anmj.org.au/prac-payment-government-to-pay-nursing-and-midwifery-students-319-per-week-during-clinical-placements/) - Student nurses, midwives, teachers, and social workers will be paid $319.50 per week while undertaking their mandatory clinical placements under a new federal government measure to address rising ‘placement poverty’.
- [Celebrating International Nurses Day 2024](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-international-nurses-day-2024/) - On this International Nurses Day (IND), the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is calling for greater recognition, investment and support of the nursing workforce so nurses are better utilised to work to their full scope of practice and deliver improved healthcare and economic outcomes for all Australians. This year’s IND theme – ‘Our Nurses.
- [Nursing on the doorstep: a socialised model of healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-on-the-doorstep-a-socialised-model-of-healthcare/) - Powered by a passion to increase connectivity and decrease stigma around homelessness, primary healthcare nurse-driven organisation OneBridge provides health equity, health education and social prescriptions for individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty. OneBridge Founder and Churchill Fellow, Sonia Martin RN, has been working alongside vulnerable populations for 30 years and was recently appointed National Chair of
- [Five of My Life: Podcaster Nigel Marsh unearths the stories of everyday nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/five-of-my-life-podcaster-nigel-marsh-unearths-the-stories-of-everyday-nurses-and-midwives/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has partnered with acclaimed podcaster Nigel Marsh to launch a series featuring everyday nurses and midwives. The six-part podcast series follows the Five of My Life challenge – where guests share a film, book, song, place and possession. Initial episodes will be launched on International Day of the
- [New scholarships to upskill registered nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/new-scholarships-to-upskill-registered-nurses-and-midwives/) - The federal government has launched a $50.2 million scholarship program to upskill registered nurses and midwives to become nurse practitioners and endorsed midwives in primary care and aged care settings. The Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Program will provide 1,850 postgraduate scholarships over four years and be managed by the Australian College of Nurse
- [‘No More Shame’ in disclosing and responding to violence and abuse of older women](https://anmj.org.au/no-more-shame-in-disclosing-and-responding-to-violence-and-abuse-of-older-women/) - Violence against women, in Australia and internationally, is a longstanding and pernicious scourge on all communities. In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that one in three women globally have suffered either physical and/or sexual violence from both intimate partners or non-partners in their lifetimes, with the majority perpetrated by intimate partners.1 In May
- [Deep dive into aged care digital transformation](https://anmj.org.au/deep-dive-into-aged-care-digital-transformation/) - A recent webinar took a deep dive into how the aged care sector is faring in digital transformation – the challenges and enablers, including investment, digital maturity and capabilities, cybersecurity and workforce. Here are some insights from four leading experts. Hosted by Australian Ageing Agenda, the 90-minute webinar covered much ground, including the Aged Care
- [Evening exercise benefits those with obesity](https://anmj.org.au/evening-exercise-benefits-those-with-obesity/) - Undertaking the majority of daily physical activity in the evening is linked to the greatest health benefits for people living with obesity, according to new research. “Exercise is by no means the only solution to the obesity crisis, but our research does suggest that people who can plan their activity into certain times of the
- [The most common mistakes nurses make when filing their tax return](https://anmj.org.au/the-most-common-mistakes-nurses-make-when-filing-their-tax-return/) - With tax time upon us, now is the time to think about preparing your annual tax return. From 1 July, 13 million Australians will lodge a return and with 84% of them expecting a refund, and the average size of refunds reaching over $3,000, it pays to spend a little time and effort ensuring you’ve
- [Recognising excellence: Aged care registered nurses' payment for clinical skills and leadership](https://anmj.org.au/recognising-excellence-aged-care-registered-nurses-payment-for-clinical-skills-and-leadership/) - The second round of the Aged Care Registered Nurses’ Payment initiative is now open for eligible registered nurses. The payment, which opened on 6 November 2023, and close on 20 December 2023, acknowledges the vital role that registered nurses play in delivering high-quality care to older Australians. Registered nurses employed by eligible aged care providers
- [Victorian nurses and midwives give government 14 days to resolve pay dispute before bed closures start](https://anmj.org.au/victorian-nurses-and-midwives-give-government-14-days-to-resolve-pay-dispute-before-bed-closures-start/) - Victorian public sector nurses and midwives will begin protected industrial action next Tuesday (7 May) in response to the Allan Government’s failure to make an improved enterprise agreement offer.
- [Queensland’s inaugural First Nations Midwifery Director driving the change towards culturally safe care](https://anmj.org.au/queenslands-inaugural-first-nations-midwifery-director-for-queensland-driving-the-change-towards-culturally-safe-care/) - Proud Gurindji woman and midwife Melina Connors has recently been appointed Queensland’s inaugural First Nations Midwifery Director, a historic first not only for Queensland, but for all of Australia. She talks with the ANMJ for International Day of the Midwife on 5 May. What is the role of the inaugural First Nations Midwifery Director for
- [‘It’s time for change’: Nursing and midwifery peaks welcome Scope of Practice Review: Issues Paper 2 ](https://anmj.org.au/its-time-for-change-nursing-and-midwifery-peaks-welcome-scope-of-practice-review-issues-paper-2/) - Australia’s peak nursing and midwifery organisations have welcomed the release of the Scope of Practice Review: Issues Paper Two – saying it presents a considered, evidence-based approach that pinpoints four key challenges to the delivery of primary health care (PHC) in Australia.
- [Nearly half of Queensland nurses and midwives considering leaving within 12 months](https://anmj.org.au/nearly-half-of-queensland-nurses-and-midwives-considering-leaving-within-12-months/) - A poll of 20,000 Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) members has revealed that almost half (46%) of public sector nurses and midwives are contemplating leaving the professions within the next year.
- [Continuity of Care Programs in midwifery education support future midwives](https://anmj.org.au/continuity-of-care-programs-in-midwifery-education-support-future-midwives/) - Continuity of care is where a woman* receives care from the same midwife, or team of midwives, throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period.1 It is a marker of high-quality midwifery practice.2 The approach nurtures trust, communication, and often better birth outcomes and experiences for both women and babies.3 Midwifery continuity of care has a
- [Leaders map future of health across Asia and the Pacific at World Health Summit in Melbourne](https://anmj.org.au/leaders-map-future-of-health-across-asia-and-the-pacific-at-world-health-summit-in-melbourne/) - “By working together across disciplines and sectors we can foster more resilient and equitable systems for health that truly leave no one behind,” declared Sandro Demaio, CEO of VicHealth.
- [Survey of continence care for health professionals](https://anmj.org.au/survey-of-continence-care-for-health-professionals/) - Are you a healthcare professional that provides continence care services? The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care wants to learn about your experiences with professional training services/continence initiatives delivered under the National Continence Program. Sharing your views with the Continence Policy and Research Project will help the Government gain valuable data on the
- [Q&A: Australian College of Nurse Practitioners President Melanie Dunstan](https://anmj.org.au/qa-australian-college-of-nurse-practitioners-president-melanie-dunstan/) - Nursing has opened numerous doors for Melanie Dunstan throughout her career. But it was becoming a nurse practitioner that truly enabled her to deliver the greatest amount of care to clients, particularly reducing delays and increasing access to healthcare. As the current president of the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners, she remains committed to advocating
- [Government seeks to delay aged care wage increases](https://anmj.org.au/government-seeks-to-delay-aged-care-wage-increases/) - The federal government has requested landmark pay rises for aged care workers ordered by the Fair Work Commission (FWC) be phased over the next two years, citing concerns including that “large one-off wage increases” could fuel employment shortages across other sectors. Last month, the FWC awarded an historic wage rise of up to 28.5% for
- [Supporting women’s choices: The women’s health nurse](https://anmj.org.au/supporting-womens-choices-the-womens-health-nurse/) - Women’s health is much more than reproductive and sexual health, says long-time women’s health nurse (WHN) Annette Heather. “As a women’s health nurse you need to have broad experience and understand all aspects of women’s health – it’s not just reproductive health and pap smears. Sexual and reproductive health is only part of women’s health
- [The OWL Project: Building nurses and midwives leadership skills, research, and evidence-based practice capabilities](https://anmj.org.au/the-owl-project-building-nurses-and-midwives-leadership-skills-research-and-evidence-based-practice-capabilities/) - Translation of evidence to practice is a challenge for all clinical practitioners, and nurses and midwives are no exception.1 This challenge results in nurses and midwives finding themselves without the essential knowledge required to comprehend, apply, and lead clinical research efforts.2 To address this issue, researchers at the Rosemary Bryant AO Research Centre (RBRC) of
- [Latest AJAN published](https://anmj.org.au/latest-ajan-published/) - The Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing, Vol 41 No 1 (2024): December 2023–February 2024 has just been published. The journal contains peer reviewed articles relevant to nurses and midwives. In this issue read about Early career nurses’ self-reported influences and drawbacks for undertaking a rural graduate nursing program – https://doi.org/10.37464/2024.411.1225 Find out about, The impact
- [Improving maternity care for First Nations women through midwife led models](https://anmj.org.au/improving-maternity-care-for-first-nations-women-through-midwife-led-models/) - Sydney’s Westmead Hospital initiated Midwifery Group Practice (MGP)/caseload care, a decade ago, providing pregnant women with continuity of midwifery care. This gold-standard maternity care involves a team of midwives ensuring consistent care throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period. The demand for this model has grown, highlighting its effectiveness and satisfaction for both midwives and
- [Nurse-led vascular access team](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-led-vascular-access-team/) - A unique Queensland first, nurse-led vascular access team is reducing catheter-associated complications and improving the patient experience. Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service’s vascular access surveillance and education (VASE) service sees specially trained nurses insert peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), guided by ultrasound. “Years ago, this was traditionally a procedure that was done by medical
- [Nursing at a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-at-a-medicare-urgent-care-clinic/) - Victorian registered nurse Sarah O’Rourke fronts one of nearly 60 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics now running across the country. Funded by the federal government, the clinics were established with the goal of making it easier for Australians to access urgent care, while simultaneously, diverting people from overcrowded emergency departments and easing pressure on public hospitals.
- [Almost one in five suffering from long COVID](https://anmj.org.au/almost-one-in-five-suffering-from-long-covids/) - Almost one in five Australians who have tested positive for COVID, experience symptoms of long COVID, new research shows. An Australian National University (ANU) study of more than 11,000 Australians who tested positive to COVID-19 in 2022 shows almost one in five were still experiencing ongoing symptoms three months after their initial diagnosis. The study
- [‘You are not alone’ supporting peace in Gaza](https://anmj.org.au/you-are-not-alone-supporting-peace-in-gaza/) - Palestinians in Gaza are suffering one of the worst humanitarian crises of our times. Yet at the heart of Gaza there exists some relief amidst the chaos: the MA’AN Development Centre offering aid, comfort, and resilience in the face of adversity to the Palestinian people. Australia’s Union Aid Abroad APHEDA, founded by nurse and ANF
- [Young female shift workers hold multiple jobs to make ends meet](https://anmj.org.au/young-female-shift-workers-hold-multiple-jobs-to-make-ends-meet/) - A total of 7% of the shift workforce held multiple jobs simultaneously in 2023 – a 25-year high with the majority being young females. All major industries have experienced an unprecedented rise in the number of shift workers working multiple jobs, including 7% of healthcare workers, the data from shift work management platform Deputy found.
- [New eligibility tool for subsidised aged care](https://anmj.org.au/new-eligibility-tool-for-subsidised-aged-care/) - A new tool that assesses the eligibility of older people for Commonwealth-subsidised aged care services and programs is being introduced on 1 July 2024. If you work in aged care, here’s what you need to know. In preparation for the implementation of the new Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT), the federal government is working closely with
- [Leading with intention](https://anmj.org.au/leading-with-intention/) - As leaders we need to create experiences on purpose to influence change. What does this mean and how do we go about it? Natalie Dragon talks with midwife and health service improvement coach Jane Stanfield. Jane Stanfield argues it’s not outside anybody’s realm to influence. “It can be done within what you’re already doing but
- [‘Drama queen’: Two-thirds of women experience bias and discrimination in Australia’s health system](https://anmj.org.au/drama-queen-two-thirds-of-women-experience-bias-and-discrimination-in-australias-health-system/) - Two out of three women experience bias and discrimination within Australia’s health system, a new report has revealed. The findings, emerging from the first End Gender Bias survey, were released today by Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney, at the 2024 National Women’s Health Summit at Parliament House in Canberra. “The results
- [SA nurses and midwives petition for rural and remote incentives](https://anmj.org.au/south-australian-nurses-and-midwives-launch-petition-for-rural-and-remote-incentives/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) South Australian Branch has launched a public petition calling for urgent rural and remote incentives for nurses and midwives to address the staff shortage that is putting regional country hospital services under threat of closure. The SA government reached an agreement with the ANMF SA Branch in 2022
- [Sleep Awareness Week 2024: practical strategies for shift workers](https://anmj.org.au/sleep-awareness-week-2024-practical-strategies-for-shift-workers/) - Are you getting enough quality shuteye as a shift worker? What works for you, and what doesn’t? Is it time to try something new? Sleep Awareness Week runs 10-16 March and is a time to reemphasise the importance of sleep on your health and wellbeing. Sleep researcher, Alexandra Shriane, a former paramedic and shift worker,
- [Top nurses and midwives named finalists for the 2024 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards](https://anmj.org.au/top-nurses-and-midwives-named-finalists-for-the-2024-hesta-australian-nursing-midwifery-awards/) - Nine of Australia’s most outstanding nurses, midwives and organisations have been announced as finalists in the 2024 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards. Finalists include a nurse from the Northern Territory who opened the first private nurse practitioners’ general practice in her community after the only medical clinic closed; a midwife from Victoria who created
- [The cyber security impacts of Artificial Intelligence in nursing and midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/the-cyber-security-impacts-of-artificial-intelligence-in-nursing-and-midwifery/) - As Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools become more widespread, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, the importance of cyber security protection measures will become even more paramount. To help clinicians understand and adapt to the changing landscape, the ANMF and Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) are running a webinar later this month looking at what AI
- [The Break Glass function in My Health Record: when and how to use it](https://anmj.org.au/the-break-glass-function-in-my-health-record-when-and-how-to-use-it/) - There are certain urgent situations where health professionals can legally access restricted information in a My Health Record to lessen or prevent a serious threat to a person’s health. This is known as Emergency Access or the break glass function. While it is expected that it will be rarely required, it is important to understand
- [Time to apply the Northern Ireland blueprint for peace in Israel-Gaza](https://anmj.org.au/time-to-apply-the-northern-ireland-blueprint-for-peace-in-israel-gaza/) - Professor Megan-Jane Johnstone AO wrote a powerful article that was published online on 10 November 2023 in the ANMJ: “Bombing hospitals, destroying ambulances and the ethics of (un)just war”.1 Johnstone examined ‘just war theory’ and made a clarion call for nurses to take a stand and speak out about the injustices of war. There are
- [Innovation enables workforce growth and high-quality care at Western Health](https://anmj.org.au/innovation-enables-workforce-growth-and-high-quality-care-at-western-health/) - Situated in a rapidly growing, diverse, and socioeconomically challenged corridor, Western Health (WH) services a community of over one million people. Article summary: Projections indicate a substantial proportion of Melbourne’s future population growth will occur in its outer west, directly impacting WH’s nursing and midwifery workforce supply and demand. To meet its workforce needs and
- [Medicare Urgent Care Clinics seeing more than 10,000 patients each week](https://anmj.org.au/medicare-urgent-care-clinics-seeing-more-than-10000-patients-each-week/) - More than 250,000 Australians have visited the federal government’s network of 58 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics for care from a doctor or a nurse, easing the burden of busy hospital emergency departments. A key election commitment, the rollout began in June 2023, with the final clinics opening late last year. According to the government, almost
- [Aged Care nurses visit Parliament to call out providers  ](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-nurses-call-visit-parliament-to-call-out-providers/) - Around 60 aged care nurses and carers from across the country have travelled to Canberra to address the ongoing failures by providers to comply with the federal government’s key aged care reforms. The group is standing together to call out providers, many of whom are proving they can’t be trusted to lift the standard of
- [The Nurse and Midwife Health Program Australia (NMHPA): What you need to know](https://anmj.org.au/the-nurse-and-midwife-health-program-australia-nmhpa-what-you-need-to-know/) - Due to the nature of the work, nurses, and midwives as well as students of the professions face significant risks to their psychosocial and physical health and wellbeing. Increasing natural disasters along with the COVID pandemic have amplified existing workforce challenges and workplace health and safety risks. In recognition of this, the federal government has
- [Maternal obesity puts males at risk in later life](https://anmj.org.au/maternal-obesity-puts-males-at-risk-in-later-life/) - Males born to obese women are more likely to be overweight at birth and develop metabolic complications in later life, including liver disease and diabetes. The way that male sex hormones activate pathways in the developing liver is partly to blame, according to a new study led by University of South Australia (UniSA) researchers looking
- [Roster justice needed so workers can plan their lives](https://anmj.org.au/roster-justice-needed-so-workers-can-plan-their-lives/) - Unions have called for roster justice saying new proposals by employer groups for increased flexibility in awards will adversely impact women workers and carers. The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) used its reply submission on the work and care stream of the Fair Work Commission’s Modern Awards Review 2023-24 to call for roster justice
- [Wage case recognises historic undervalued work of aged care nurses](https://anmj.org.au/wage-case-recognises-historic-undervalued-work-of-aged-care-nurses/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has welcomed the Fair Work Commission’s (FWC) further recognition that the work of aged care workers has been historically undervalued in its Stage 3 decision for the aged care industry work value case announced today. The FWC has concluded that, for ‘work value reasons’, award rates for direct
- [Survey aims to improve legal response to occupational violence](https://anmj.org.au/survey-aims-to-improve-legal-response-to-occupational-violence/) - A survey addressing workplace occupational violence aims to clarify what discourages nurses from reporting incidents to legal authorities, according to the nurse researcher leading the project. CJ Cabilan, a researcher who has previously published in the ANMJ on occupational violence, said while legislation is in place across the states and territories that addresses occupational violence
- [ANMF launches landmark Nurses Award work value case](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-launches-landmark-nurses-award-work-value-case/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has filed a landmark application at the Fair Work Commission (FWC) to increase award wages for frontline nurses, midwives, and assistants in nursing (AINs), by up to 35%. The application seeks to vary the Nurses Award and is made on the basis that the work of nurses and
- [How the Northern Territory trailblazed Australia’s voluntary assisted dying laws](https://anmj.org.au/how-the-northern-territory-trailblazed-australias-voluntary-assisted-dying-laws/) - In 1995, the Northern Territory made history by becoming the first place in the world to legalise voluntary assisted dying after a private member’s Bill, championed by then Chief Minister Marshall Perron, secured a 15-10 vote in the early morning hours after intense deliberation in Parliament. Following its implementation in 1996, only four people facing
- [Report backs paid clinical placements for nursing students](https://anmj.org.au/report-backs-paid-clinical-placements-for-nursing-students/) - The federal government should provide financial support for nursing students undertaking mandatory clinical placements as part of their courses, the highly-anticipated Universities Accord final report has recommended.
- [Leadership and Management: Not one and the same](https://anmj.org.au/leadership-and-management-not-one-and-the-same/) - Leadership can often be mistaken with management and the two do overlap. But while leadership and management in nursing and midwifery share some similarities, they are two distinct roles. “The biggest difference is that while we have leadership skills inherent in all of us, management is more of a learnt process”, says RN and Academic
- [Universities Accord final report: What does the Council of Deans of Nursing and Midwifery (CDNM) think? ](https://anmj.org.au/universities-accord-final-report-what-does-the-council-of-deans-of-nursing-and-midwifery-cdnm-think/) - The Council of Deans of Nursing and Midwifery (CDNM) has welcomed recommendations outlined in the recently released Australian Universities Accord Final Report, especially efforts to address rising ‘placement poverty’ experienced by undergraduate nursing and midwifery students. To reduce financial hardship caused by the unpaid clinical placements, the report called on the federal government to provide
- [Greater evidence reduces reliability of ChatGPT when used for health questions, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/greater-evidence-reduces-reliability-of-chatgpt-when-used-for-health-questions-study-finds/) - Asking a health-related question to ChatGPT? Well, you might be at risk, after a new study found that the more evidence the Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform is given, the less reliable it becomes, with the accuracy of its responses plunging to as low as 28%. Scientists from CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and the University
- [CSIRO reports surge in AI in healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/csiro-reports-surge-in-ai-in-healthcare/) - A surge in the amount of digital data in the health sector, together with increases in compute power and the availability of new artificial intelligence (AI) tools are leading to an explosion of AI being used in healthcare, according to a new report from CSIRO. Australia’s national science agency CSIRO AI Trends for Healthcare report
- [Nurses poised to help shift dial in fight against obesity ](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-poised-to-help-shift-the-dial-in-fight-against-obesity/) - Nurses and fellow health professionals have a critical role to play in helping the growing number of Australians experiencing severe weight issues, according to the nation’s peak body for obesity in Australia. A new report launched last month by The Obesity Collective, A Time for Action, revealed the number of people living with obesity surged
- [‘Delivered by women, led by men’: Female nurses face major barriers to advance into leadership roles](https://anmj.org.au/delivered-by-women-led-by-men-female-nurses-face-major-barriers-to-advance-into-leadership-roles/) - Female nurses aren’t getting the same opportunities to advance into leadership roles as men, a Monash University study has found. Comprehensively reviewing decades of data, researchers identified the collective sociocultural, professional, organisational, and individual barriers that hold female nurses back from being considered, applying for, or accepting leadership positions. Published in The Lancet’s EClinicalMedicine, the
- [Nurse practitioners, midwives empowered to provide quality care](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-practitioners-midwives-empowered-to-provide-quality-care/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has commended the Albanese Government for introducing new laws which will give highly trained nurse practitioners and midwives greater capacity to provide people with safe, quality care. This morning, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney introduced the Health Legislation Amendment (Removal of Requirement for a
- [Specialist lung cancer nurses for South Australian metro public hospitals](https://anmj.org.au/specialist-lung-cancer-nurses-for-south-australian-metro-public-hospitals/) - Three lung cancer specialist nurses have been recruited in a $2.5 million investment over four years by the South Australian government. The partnership with Lung Foundation is aimed to help improve the care of patients diagnosed with lung disease. Nurses will work across the Royal Adelaide Hospital and The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, one at the
- [Queensland rolls out pill testing services](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-rolls-out-pill-testing-services/) - Queensland is becoming the first Australian jurisdiction to support pill testing on an ongoing basis with other states and territories being urged to follow suit. $1 million will be invested by the Queensland government over the next two years and final planning is underway to deliver an event-based service at the Rabbits Eats lettuce festival
- [Researcher aims to address ‘placement poverty’ among university students](https://anmj.org.au/researcher-aims-to-address-placement-poverty-among-university-students/) - Over the next year, Dr Amani Bell, an academic from the University of Sydney, will tackle one of Australian universities’ biggest challenges – the rise of financial hardship experienced by students required to undertake mandatory, unpaid clinical placements, as part of their courses. Dr Bell, an Associate Professor in the School of Health Sciences, received
- [New sleep regime to help insomnia](https://anmj.org.au/new-sleep-regime-to-help-insomnia/) - For shift workers with a chronically mistimed body-clock, getting a good night’s sleep can be an endless battle. Australian researchers are moving a step closer to discovering how to personalise a sleep regime and readjust the body-clock to help treat some types of insomnia, shift work disorder and other forms of body clock disruption such
- [Secure jobs and gender equality form the basis for the Modern Award Review 2023-24](https://anmj.org.au/secure-jobs-and-gender-equality-form-the-basis-for-the-modern-award-review-2023-24/) - In December 2022, the Fair Work Act was amended to add two new objectives that need to be taken into account when deciding if awards meet the standard required of contemporary industrial relations. The new matters that the Fair Work Commission (FWC) must consider are whether provisions of awards improve access to secure work and
- [Tips to thrive in your grad year](https://anmj.org.au/tips-to-thrive-in-your-grad-year/) - Life as a graduate nurse or graduate midwife can be intimidating, but Nurse & Midwife Support shares some steps you can take to help you survive the year. As a graduate, you’re on a steep learning curve that can be simultaneously rewarding and overwhelming. The prospect of entering your grad year can cause an array
- [Peer-led telehealth counselling for nurses and midwives is now active](https://anmj.org.au/peer-led-telehealth-counselling-for-nurses-and-midwives/) - The Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia (NMHPA) is now open for telehealth counselling for nurses, midwives and students of the professions living anywhere in Australia. Free, confidential and independent counselling services and case-managed support is available for any sensitive health-related issue that nurses, midwives and students are experiencing. Whether it is drug, alcohol or gambling,
- [Organ donation saves 1,396 Australians, but consent rates remain low](https://anmj.org.au/organ-donation-saves-1396-australians-but-consent-rates-remain-low/) - Thanks to the generosity of 513 donors, and their families who ticked off donation, 1,396 Australians received a life-saving organ transplant last year, the 2023 Australian Donation and Transplantation Activity Report has revealed. With a 13% increase in deceased organ donation, and a 14% increase in the number of people who received a transplant from
- [South Australia nurse practitioner pilot open for applications](https://anmj.org.au/south-australia-nurse-practitioner-pilot-open-for-applications/) - South Australians will have more options for free primary health care as part of a new pilot program expanding the number of nurse practitioners working in GP clinics, also aimed to help ease pressure on hospital emergency departments. Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler yesterday announced the Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Pilot will
- [Nurse awarded peace prize for passionate advocacy](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-awarded-peace-prize-for-passionate-advocacy/) - A trailblazing Australian nurse has been recognised for her passionate advocacy for peace in the Middle East, as well as her dedication and care for the refugees and innocent victims of conflict. APHEDA co-founder, nurse and advocate for refugee and women’s rights, Dr Helen McCue AM has been awarded winner of the 2023-2024 Jerusalem (Al
- [Government rules out new tax or levy to fund aged care](https://anmj.org.au/government-rules-out-new-tax-or-levy-to-fund-aged-care/) - The federal government has ruled out imposing a new levy or tax to fund aged care costs, as well as steering clear of the means-testing treatment of the family home, at today’s release of the Aged Care Taskforce’s Final Report. The taskforce, chaired by Aged Care Minister Anika Wells, was established to examine how to
- [Nursing students can now access supported clinical placements in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-students-can-now-access-supported-clinical-placements-in-aged-care/) - Bachelor of Nursing students can now apply for supported clinical placements in aged care through the federal government’s new Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placements Program. The program involves clinical facilitators providing specialist support to nursing students, who must complete a minimum of 800 hours of clinical placement as part of their courses, while they are
- [Nominations requested!!](https://anmj.org.au/nominations-requested/) - Following on from the success of Mary Chiarella’s 5 of My Life episode (you can listen here https://anmj.org.au/theres-something-about-mary/) we have decided to spread the love! What better way to celebrate our colleagues and build genuine human connection across the profession than doing Five of My Life episodes with six more of our colleagues? Except this
- [New resource for health professionals to help asthma patients get a better night’s sleep](https://anmj.org.au/new-resource-for-health-professionals-to-help-asthma-patients-get-a-better-nights-sleep/) - The National Asthma Council has released a new resource for health professionals outlining key steps for treating patients who present with poor asthma control and sleep issues. Associate Professor Greg Katsoulotos, Australian Asthma Handbook Committee member and respiratory medicine and sleep disorders physician, said the new resource was aimed at helping patients with asthma who
- [New nurse-led Queensland healthcare clinics welcomed](https://anmj.org.au/new-nurse-led-healthcare-clinics-announced-in-queensland/) - The Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) has welcomed the state government’s announcement of four new nurse-led healthcare clinics across Queensland. The four walk-in clinics will be staffed by nurse practitioners and nurses with a focus on the healthcare needs of women and girls. The nurse practitioner level care will be free of charge, regardless
- [Government to pay superannuation on paid parental leave](https://anmj.org.au/government-to-pay-superannuation-on-paid-parental-leave/) - Parental leave is the only form of leave which doesn’t require superannuation to be paid – until now.
- [See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil: The conspiracy of silence within the medical profession](https://anmj.org.au/see-no-evil-hear-no-evil-speak-no-evil-the-conspiracy-of-silence-within-the-medical-profession/) - The phrase ‘conspiracy of silence’ is defined by Collins Dictionary as: ‘If there is a conspiracy of silence about something, people who know about it have agreed that they will not talk publicly about it, although it would probably be a good thing if people in general knew about it’.1 Sadly, this term accurately describes
- [Developing and evaluating a clinical supervision training program for mental health nurses](https://anmj.org.au/developing-and-evaluating-a-clinical-supervision-training-program-for-mental-health-nurses/) - The continued support for nurses through education and training is fundamental to the success and growth of the profession. This is particularly relevant within mental health nursing, where staff often face complex and emotionally challenging circumstances. The past decades have seen a growth in interest and understanding of workplace support within mental health settings through
- [Supporting nurses to work to their scope of practice](https://anmj.org.au/supporting-nurses-to-work-to-their-scope-of-practice/) - In October 2023, the federal government launched Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce – scope of practice review. The independent review will examine the barriers and incentives faced by health practitioners working to their scope of practice (SoP) in primary healthcare (PHC). The review aims to deliver better health outcomes for people as well
- [Gender pay gap data reveals substantial pay disparity](https://anmj.org.au/gender-pay-gap-data-reveals-substantial-pay-disparity/) - Unions have welcomed publication of the gender pay gap for nearly 5,000 Australian private sector employers for the first time but urge more needs to be done to close the disparity. “Publicising the gender pay gap is a tool that works – it shines a light on entrenched practices and structural inequalities that see women
- [NSW paediatric nurse awarded for inspirational care during pandemic](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-paediatric-nurse-awarded-for-inspirational-care-during-pandemic/) - A NSW paediatric nurse has been recognised for her inspirational care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Western NSW Local Health District’s (LHD) Dominique Spork was named Regional Winner of the NSW 2022 Michelle Beets Award for Inspirational Paediatric Care announced on Monday by the Humpty Dumpty Foundation. Paediatric Clinical Nurse Consultant (CNC) and Nurse Manager, Dominique
- [Pandemic-related complaints top calls to National Health Practitioner Ombudsman](https://anmj.org.au/pandemic-related-complaints-top-calls-to-national-health-practitioner-ombudsman/) - A sharp increase in people raising concerns about regulatory responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, including obligations around mandatory vaccination, drove a record number of approaches to the office of the National Health Practitioner Ombudsman (NHPO) during 2021-22, new data has revealed. The NHPO’s recently released annual report shows it received 1,593 approaches in 2021-22, up
- [Save our planet Protect our health](https://anmj.org.au/save-our-planet-protect-our-health/) - The climate crisis is here. But there is still time to avert disaster if we take action now The climate crisis predicted to happen sometime in the future has arrived. The fallout is evident, with poorer health, and wellbeing outcomes and environmental changes that sustains life. Science informs us if we continue along this trajectory,
- [International nurses and midwives head to Australian shores more than ever](https://anmj.org.au/international-nurses-and-midwives-head-to-australian-shores-more-than-ever/) - In the first three months of 2022-23 new applications for Internationally Qualified Nurse and Midwife applications have increased by 87%, compared to the same period last year, Ahpra says. Further, Ahpra says the number of international nursing and midwifery registrations are approaching the pre-pandemic level of 5,753 international registrations in 2018-19. The number of Internationally
- [‘Do you know we’re all being sacked?’: Enrolled nurses, family, lift lid on Southern Cross Care restructure](https://anmj.org.au/do-you-know-were-all-being-sacked-enrolled-nurses-family-lift-lid-on-southern-cross-care-restructure/) - In early November, aged care Enrolled Nurse Jane (not her real name) was working a routine shift when her phone pinged. It was her employer, Southern Cross Care Tasmania, informing her that a staff meeting would be taking place the following morning. Exhausted from her shift, Jane decided to skip the meeting. Around lunchtime, she
- [The ANMF National Policy Research Unit – the first five years](https://anmj.org.au/the-anmf-national-policy-research-unit-the-first-five-years/) - Embedding high-quality research into nursing and midwifery is vital for delivering safe, effective healthcare. This is not only important in informing best practice, but having the latest evidence is essential to the ANMF as they advocate for the rights of the nursing and midwifery workforce and support improvement to the health and wellbeing of all
- [Queensland Health nurses and midwives to receive pay rise before Christmas in landmark agreement](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-health-nurses-and-midwives-to-receive-pay-rise-before-christmas-in-landmark-agreement/) - Queensland Health nurses and midwives to receive pay rise before Christmas in landmark agreement
- [How disposable PPE is being recycled to make stronger concrete](https://anmj.org.au/how-disposable-ppe-is-being-recycled-to-make-stronger-concrete/) - A new generation of nurses, midwives and carers have never practiced without wearing disposable PPE since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, research at RMIT is paving the way to reduce PPE waste, including gowns, face masks and rubber gloves, from landfill or incineration by using it to improve the strength and durability of
- [By their side: Mental health nurses making a difference](https://anmj.org.au/by-their-side-mental-health-nurses-making-a-difference/) - “It’s the people and the stories and being allowed into their lives,” says acute community mental health nurse Jocelyn Douglass of the best part of her job. “When people are experiencing mental health issues and we see them they are in an acutely vulnerable position. It’s a privilege and an honour to be able to
- [Nursing student and RUSON gains on-the-job experience](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-student-and-ruson-gains-on-the-job-experience/) - Nursing student and RUSON gains on-the-job experience
- [Landmark industrial relations reforms become law](https://anmj.org.au/landmark-industrial-relations-reforms-become-law/) - The Albanese Government’s landmark industrial relations Bill, which paves the way for improved multi-employer bargaining and will help improve working conditions, lift wages, and close the gender pay gap, has passed Parliament. “By modernising the bargaining system we will see more workplace agreements, delivering better productivity and flexibility for employers and better pay and conditions
- [Stop the cuts: Why Enrolled Nurses are an essential part of the aged care sector](https://anmj.org.au/stop-the-cuts-why-enrolled-nurses-are-an-essential-part-of-the-aged-care-sector/) - Stop the cuts: Why Enrolled Nurses are an essential part of the aged care sector
- [Albanese Government must stop Enrolled Nurse sackings in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/albanese-government-must-stop-enrolled-nurse-sackings-in-aged-care/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is calling on the Albanese Government to urgently act to stop greedy aged care providers from sacking highly-trained Enrolled Nurses (EN) and replacing them with lower-paid personal care workers (PCW) in nursing homes. In Tasmania, Southern Cross Care is making ENs redundant, substituting them with extended care workers.
- [NSW nurses and midwives hold fourth strike in fight for ratios and fair pay](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-nurses-and-midwives-hold-fourth-strike-in-fight-for-ratios-and-fair-pay/) - NSW public sector nurses and midwives have gone on strike for the fourth time this year in their fight for safe staffing, improved working conditions and fair pay that recognises their contribution to the health system. Thousands of NSWNMA members from across the state are taking part in the 24-hour strike, which began this morning
- [‘Beyond urgent’: HSU pushes on for full 25% pay rise for aged care workers](https://anmj.org.au/beyond-urgent-hsu-pushes-on-for-full-25-pay-rise-for-aged-care-workers/) - Three-quarters of aged care workers are considering leaving the sector within the next six months if they do not receive a significant pay increase, according to a new survey. The Health Services Union (HSU) released the data, Aged Care Snapshot: The Brink of Collapse, on the steps of the Fair Work Commission in Sydney this
- [The perfect place to work](https://anmj.org.au/the-perfect-place-to-work/) - What makes a great workplace? Do we know what to look for when choosing a place to work? It’s often the case that we very quickly recognise what we don’t want in our workplace when confronted with it every day. Trouble parking, reallocation, re-deployment, short staffing, colleagues off sick, lack of support, poor communication, no
- [Scoping and redesign of the nursing and midwifery clinical facilitator learning support model in northern Queensland](https://anmj.org.au/scoping-and-redesign-of-the-nursing-and-midwifery-clinical-facilitator-learning-support-model-in-northern-queensland/) - Scoping and redesign of the nursing and midwifery clinical facilitator learning support model in northern Queensland
- [Aged care Enrolled Nurses remain in limbo, union says](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-enrolled-nurses-remain-in-limbo-union-says/) - Enrolled Nurses working across Southern Cross Care Tasmania’s (SCCT) aged care facilities have been facing redundancy for months after the not-for-profit provider announced plans to axe ENs from its roster and replace them with care workers. While SCCT has now conceded its consultation process was flawed and will delay the transition until late February, ENs
- [Is there more education can do to meet the challenges we will face?](https://anmj.org.au/is-there-more-education-can-do-to-meet-the-challenges-we-will-face/) - Finishing the first year of my Bachelor of Nursing is exciting and reinforces that nursing has been the right decision to change careers. Like many students, I expected nursing to be all about patients and being by the bedside. This first year has laid a theoretical foundation and provided a glimpse into issues that will
- [The oldest mother in the world](https://anmj.org.au/the-oldest-mother-in-the-world/) - A woman enters the room and walks up to the desk. The “geriatric” label weighs her down more than the human inside of her. The woman behind the counter asks her why she is here, then tries to hide her surprise, when she confirms her date of birth. Like many of their patients, she is
- [How a nurse practitioner shifted to telehealth amid COVID-19](https://anmj.org.au/how-a-nurse-practitioner-shifted-to-telehealth-amid-covid-19/) - Before COVID-19 hit, Paediatric Nurse Practitioner Stephanie Dowden pondered implementing telehealth at her Perth-based clinic but ultimately considered it too costly and unviable. When the pandemic arrived, the goalposts suddenly changed. Speaking at the 2022 Australian College of Nurse Practitioners (ACNP) National Conference, Stephanie shared her experience with adopting telehealth and its benefits and challenges.
- [The dilemma: International recruitment of nurses and midwives amid a global workforce shortage](https://anmj.org.au/the-dilemma-international-recruitment-of-nurses-and-midwives-amid-a-global-workforce-shortage/) - Historic chronic underinvestment of nursing and midwifery, compounded by a global pandemic, has left a perilous shortage of the world’s largest health workforce. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the already fragile state of the global nursing workforce, with the estimated global shortage of nurses and midwives at 30.6 million. “Essentially the demand for nurses has
- [Does the RUSON employment model support transition to practice, relieve workload pressure and improve patient care?](https://anmj.org.au/does-the-ruson-employment-model-support-transition-to-practice-relieve-workload-pressure-and-improve-patient-care/) - Can paid employment models for undergraduate nurses improve transition to practice and help to address workforce shortages? Supporting undergraduate nurses and new graduates to transition to the workforce is vital. The global nursing shortage was widely apparent even before the COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO estimated a shortfall of 5.9 million, necessitating 10.6 million nurses by
- [Australia’s first Senior Midwifery Advisor will elevate midwifery profile](https://anmj.org.au/australias-first-senior-midwifery-advisor-will-elevate-midwifery-profile/) - Australia’s first Senior Midwifery Advisor will elevate midwifery profile
- [What’s so super about superfoods?](https://anmj.org.au/whats-so-super-about-superfoods/) - Not a week goes by without a new superfood trending that promises to deliver astonishing health benefits. Think recent crazes like quinoa, chia sees, and kale. But does eating kale four times a week really support your bone health? Taking a closer look, University of New South Wales (UNSW) food and nutrition expert, Associate Professor
- [Preparation of student nurses for registration and healthcare delivery](https://anmj.org.au/preparation-of-student-nurses-for-registration-and-healthcare-delivery/) - Nursing workforce shortages and continuing pressures on healthcare systems require health services and education providers to work collaboratively to support student nurses’ transition into practice, preparing and retaining a quality nursing workforce. In recognition of this, a regional tertiary education provider has partnered with a NSW Local Health District (LHD) to conduct a longitudinal mixed
- [Supporting novice nurses in an Early Career Transition Program](https://anmj.org.au/supporting-novice-nurses-in-an-early-career-transition-program/) - The Supported Registered Nurse Program (SRNP) and Supported Enrolled Nurse Program (SENP) are six-month Early Career Transition Programs (ECTP) for registered and enrolled nurses who have not previously participated in or have not been accepted into a transition program. The program is closely aligned with the existing Transition to Professional Practice Program (TPPP) and aims
- [Cannula Conversations: An initiative to reduce bloodstream infections](https://anmj.org.au/cannula-conversations-an-initiative-to-reduce-bloodstream-infections/) - With the aim to reduce the rate of peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) related bloodstream infections (BSIs) at the Townsville University Hospital, a six-month quality improvement activity was initiated through education, patient engagement, and surveillance. Healthcare-associated BSIs (HA-BSIs) have a significant burden on the healthcare system and are largely associated with increased risk of patient morbidity
- [The Aged Care Work Value Decision: What does it mean for you?](https://anmj.org.au/the-aged-care-work-value-decision-what-does-it-mean-for-you/) - On 4 November 2022 the Fair Work Commission (FWC) handed down its decision on the ANMF and HSU’s applications to increase award wages for all employees working in residential aged care and home aged care. The unions sought an increase of 25% for all classifications. The FWC decided to grant an interim increase of 15%
- [ANMF PRIORITIES 2023](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-priorities-2023/) - ANMF PRIORITIES 2023
- [The call for morally just global action](https://anmj.org.au/the-call-for-morally-just-global-action/) - The COVID-19 pandemic together with other global pressures that have been placed on the world’s healthcare systems have converged to highlight the prediction –and now reality– of a catastrophic shortage of nurses. As the world grapples with how to remedy the erosion of the nursing workforce and build its sustainable future, leaders have been giving
- [Rollout of fifth COVID-19 booster shot on way for Australian adults](https://anmj.org.au/most-adults-now-eligible-for-a-covid-19-booster-shot/) - All adults who have not had a COVID-19 booster or a confirmed case in the past six months will be able to get another booster to give them additional protection against severe illness from COVID, as advised by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI). The recommendation for additional boosters comes into effect on
- [10 things I wish I knew before my first clinical placement](https://anmj.org.au/10-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-my-first-clinical-placement/) - Clinical placements give nursing and midwifery students the opportunity to build critical hands-on skills. For first-year nursing student Matilda Preston, heading into her initial clinical placement in aged care presented an unknown. She felt nervous, and didn’t know what to expect about working in the sector. To help future nursing students, Matilda shares the 10
- [An expert’s guide to help ‘inoculate’ yourself against burnout](https://anmj.org.au/an-experts-guide-to-help-inoculate-yourself-against-burnout/) - How can you help protect yourself against burnout? According to Dr Tom Buckley, an internationally recognised expert on the impact of stress on human health and wellbeing, there are five factors that can help prevent the rising toll of burnout among healthcare workers. Addressing delegates at the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners (ACNP) National Conference
- [ANMF calls for funding for Medicare reforms in May Budget following release of Taskforce report](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-calls-for-funding-for-medicare-reforms-in-may-budget-following-release-of-taskforce-report/) - ANMF calls for funding for Medicare reforms in May Budget following release of Taskforce report
- [PM explains how Urgent Care Clinics will work](https://anmj.org.au/pm-explains-how-urgent-care-clinics-will-work/) - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was in Perth yesterday announcing seven Urgent Care Clinics that will open across WA to ease pressure on emergency departments. The Urgent Care Clinics planned nationwide were an election promise to help ease the burden on overstretched hospital emergency services. Interviewed on ABC Radio Perth Drive, the Prime Minister explained how
- [Nurse-led trial aiming to prevent hypothermia during surgery](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-led-trial-aiming-to-prevent-hypothermia-during-surgery/) - Queensland University of Technology (QUT) researchers are trialling new care strategies that reduce postoperative risk to patients from loss of body heat during surgery. Chief Investigator, Dr Judy Munday, from the QUT School of Nursing, said perioperative hypothermia – body heat loss to below 36°C – was inevitable in surgeries unless preventative strategies were used.
- [Women’s health experts appointed to tackle ‘Medical Misogyny’](https://anmj.org.au/womens-health-experts-appointed-to-tackle-medical-misogyny/) - Growing evidence and medical research has shown women often suffer poorer health outcomes because of systemic issues in healthcare delivery. Women disproportionately experience delayed diagnosis, overprescribing, and a failure to properly investigate symptoms. Addressing these concerns, a new National Women’s Health Advisory Council will examine the unique challenges that women and girls experience in the
- [Paid leave for family and domestic violence starts](https://anmj.org.au/paid-leave-for-family-and-domestic-violence-starts/) - Ten days of paid domestic violence leave will come into force as of today. From 1 February workers for large or medium businesses will have access to this new entitlement. The measure, which will impact at least seven million employees, is seen as crucial to support workers, overwhelmingly women, to leave violent relationships. Minister for
- [Landmark voluntary assisted dying laws start today in SA](https://anmj.org.au/landmark-voluntary-assisted-dying-laws-start-today-in-sa/) - Voluntary assisted dying laws came into force in South Australia today South Australians with a terminal illness will have the right to make the choice to die with dignity under the landmark laws after 16 previous attempts spanning 27 years, voluntary assisted dying is now legal in South Australia. The introduction of the Voluntary Assisted
- [Midwifery trailblazer recognised in Australia Day 2023 Honours List](https://anmj.org.au/midwifery-trailblazer-recognised-in-australia-day-2023-honours-list/) - Midwifery trailblazer recognised in Australia Day 2023 Honours List
- [Nurse AM puts multiple sclerosis in the spotlight](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-am-puts-multiple-sclerosis-in-the-spotlight/) - “I come from a family of nurses and I knew as soon as I started my studies, that I was in the right place.” “While nursing is a selfless profession, I see it as a real privilege to be let into people’s lives in the deepest ways to be able to look after them and
- [Epilepsy register helps for safer pregnancies](https://anmj.org.au/epilepsy-register-helps-for-safer-pregnancies/) - An Australian register set up to help pregnant women with epilepsy has helped reduce the number of stillbirths and birth defects such as spina bifida, research shows. One of only a few of its kind globally, the voluntary nationwide Australian Pregnancy Register (APR) collects information from pregnant women or those who have recently given birth,
- [‘More than just a nurse’: Out of the hospital and into Remote Area Nursing](https://anmj.org.au/more-than-just-a-nurse-out-of-the-hospital-and-into-remote-area-nursing/) - When the COVID-19 pandemic hit Australia, registered nurse Wayne Burns joined the response, pivoting into carrying out swabbing and, not long after, vaccinations on the NSW Mid North Coast. As the threat settled, he contemplated his next move and stumbled upon remote area nursing. “I worked with a nurse at a little hospital in NSW
- [10 tips to navigate your first undergraduate year](https://anmj.org.au/10-tips-to-navigate-your-first-undergraduate-year/) - Congratulations! You’ve been accepted and are now enrolled into a Bachelor of Nursing Degree. You may be feeling excited and a little nervous about what to expect and how to prepare. CQUniversity First Year Bachelor of Nursing Coordinator for the past 11 years, Sandy Mclellan shares her key tips for navigating your first undergraduate year.
- [Australian researchers create anti-COVID cleaning spray](https://anmj.org.au/australian-researchers-create-anti-covid-cleaning-spray/) - A long lasting surface spray that has the potential to kill viruses such as COVID-19 is currently being assessed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for commercial cleaning use including in hospitals. The spray contains a protein that allows it to stick to surfaces and remain effective for 24 hours. University of Queensland (UQ) researchers
- [More nurse practitioners to be employed across Western Australia](https://anmj.org.au/more-nurse-practitioners-to-be-employed-across-western-australia/) - An extra 20 Nurse Practitioners will be employed across Western Australian primary care settings as part of a new multidisciplinary care model aiming to improve access to primary care and help ease workforce pressures in aged care and the health system. Announced today, the $11.7 million program, funded by the Federal and Western Australian Governments,
- [Embracing rural placements](https://anmj.org.au/embracing-rural-placements/) - Rural placements have the capacity to transform students professionally and personally as well as create unexpected opportunities and lifelong memories. Placement coordinators, placement supervisors along with students with rural placement experience recently shared what’s involved in undertaking a rural placement. Alongside the benefits and the challenges, students learnt how best to prepare including managing their
- [One in three nurses and midwives plan to quit over burnout and exhaustion in NSW](https://anmj.org.au/one-in-three-nurses-and-midwives-plan-to-quit-over-burnout-and-exhaustion-in-nsw/) - There are fresh calls to address widespread burnout and trauma amongst nurses and midwives or risk a devastating loss of experienced clinical staff from NSW’s public health system. A new report commissioned by the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) has revealed 15 in every 100 nurses and midwives surveyed are suffering symptoms of post-traumatic
- [Bridging the evidence to practice research gap](https://anmj.org.au/bridging-the-evidence-to-practice-research-gap/) - Research interventions need to be trialled in the clinical setting rather than academic institutions to improve the evidence to practice research gap. Currently only 14% of evidence-based research is implemented in the clinical setting and it takes as long as 17 years. The figures were presented by Behavioural and Implementation Scientist Professor Luke Wolfenden, Director
- [South Australia expands graduate program to secure future nursing and midwifery workforce](https://anmj.org.au/south-australia-scales-up-graduate-program-to-secure-future-nursing-and-midwifery-workforce/) - South Australia expands graduate program to secure future nursing and midwifery workforce
- [Heroic army nurses remembered on the 81st anniversary of the Radji Beach massacre](https://anmj.org.au/heroic-army-nurses-remembered-on-the-81st-anniversary-of-the-radji-beach-massacre/) - On the 16th of February is the 81st Anniversary of the Radji Beach massacre where 21 nurses were brutally murdered. Only one nurse, Vivian Bullwinkle, survived. Kath Neuss was one of the nurses who lost her life on that fateful day. Below is her story. Guess you will be thinking I’ve gone up in smoke.
- [Call for Australia to end exploitative marketing of commercial milk formula at home and abroad](https://anmj.org.au/call-for-australia-to-end-exploitative-marketing-of-commercial-milk-formula-at-home-and-abroad/) - Breastfeeding advocates have reiterated calls for an end to exploitative strategies of infant formula marketing and for stronger regulation of the industry in Australia and abroad. The calls come ahead of the joint Australian National University and Deakin University Australasia and Pacific virtual launch of the 2023 Lancet Series on Breastfeeding on Tuesday 14 February.
- [Little bit of exercise goes a long way, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/little-bit-of-exercise-goes-a-long-way-study-finds/) - Is it better to exercise a little bit each day, or work out for longer, and at more intensity, just once a week? It’s a dilemma faced by many health-conscious people — and one which research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) has uncovered. The study found a little bit of daily activity could well be
- [Nurse Practitioners in rural and remote set to have their HELP debt wiped or reduced](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-practitioners-in-rural-and-remote-set-to-have-their-help-debt-wiped-or-reduced/) - Nurse Practitioners and doctors who lives and works in rural and remote Australia will have their HELP debt wiped or reduced under legislation passed today in Parliament. The HELP debt reduction for a nurse practitioner or doctor will depend on the length of their course of study, and the amount of outstanding HELP debt when
- [South Australia’s nurses and midwives receive welcome pay boost](https://anmj.org.au/south-australias-nurses-and-midwives-receive-welcome-pay-boost/) - South Australian public sector nurses and midwives have seen the first of three successive yearly wage increases of 3% in their pay packet, as part of their new Enterprise Agreement. A 9% pay rise over three years as part of a new enterprise bargaining agreement reached with state government began flowing through on Friday for
- [An antibiotic that beats resistance to superbugs developed](https://anmj.org.au/an-antibiotic-that-beats-resistance-to-superbugs-developed/) - A new type of antibiotic that can be rapidly re-engineered to avoid resistance by dangerous superbugs has been created by RMIT scientists. The antibiotic, named Priscilicidin, is made of small amino acid building blocks creating an antimicrobial peptide, which can be tailored to tackle different types of antimicrobial resistance. All living organisms produce these peptides
- [International Women’s Day: ANMF fights to protect aged care workers’ entitlements](https://anmj.org.au/international-womens-day-anmf-fights-for-aged-care-workers-entitlements/) - International Women’s Day: ANMF fights to protect aged care workers’ entitlements
- [Interventions needed to help prevent suicide among older Australians](https://anmj.org.au/interventions-needed-to-help-prevent-suicide-among-older-australians/) - Older men, especially those diagnosed with mental health conditions, living alone and who have been hospitalised for self-injury, should be key targets for suicide prevention efforts, according to a new study. New research from Flinders University and the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) shows 354 older people who were accessing or waiting
- [Australian delegation attends United Nations Commission on the Status of Women](https://anmj.org.au/australian-delegation-attends-united-nations-commission-on-the-status-of-women/) - The Australian Government has announced the official delegation to attend the 67th annual United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), being held in New York from 6 to 17 March. The Commission is the principal global body dedicated to the advancement of women. The UN’s largest annual gathering on gender equality and women’s
- [‘It just crept up on me’: Urgent action needed to curb ‘high-risk’ drinking among Australian nurses](https://anmj.org.au/it-just-crept-up-on-me-urgent-action-needed-to-curb-high-risk-drinking-among-australian-nurses/) - Tailored interventions are urgently needed to address growing alcohol consumption among Australian nurses, with booze levels within the profession now rivalling high-risk industries such as mining and construction, according to a new paper. A national survey of 1,159 nurses, conducted from June to October 2021, found Australian nurses were drinking at higher levels than previously
- [Parents to benefit from Paid Parental Leave expansion](https://anmj.org.au/parents-to-benefit-from-paid-parental-leave-expansion/) - Following a long campaign by unions, expanded paid parental leave has been made law after the Senate today passed the Paid Parental Leave Amendment (Improvements for Families and Gender Equality) Bill 2022. The reform, which aims to support increased women’s workforce participation and help more dads and partners to take time off work to be
- [Aged care workers 15% increase on Award: What does it mean?](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-workers-15-increase-on-award-what-does-it-mean/) - The Fair Work Commission announced aged care workers can expect a 15% wage increase on award rates from 30 June 2023. But which aged care workers are covered by the decision and will the full 15% be passed on? The ANMF have recently released member communication about what the 15% means and how it can
- [Craftivism: social activism using the creative form](https://anmj.org.au/craftivism-social-activism-using-the-creative-form/) - A creative form of activism uses craft to explore gender-based violence issues and advocate for reform. In recent years, the use of DIY craft has become a contemporary movement known as craftivism. Through expressive works like public quilting and yarn bombing, craftivists use textiles like knitting, sewing and embroidery to express social, environmental and political
- [Aged care providers trying to ‘short-change’ nurses and carers, union says](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-providers-trying-to-short-change-nurses-and-carers-union-says/) - Aged care providers trying to ‘short-change’ nurses and carers, union says
- [Glam Nurses and midwives from across the country marched for universal health at this year's Mardi Gras](https://anmj.org.au/glam-nurses-and-midwives-from-across-the-country-marched-for-universal-health-at-this-years-mardi-gras/) - Eighty nurses and midwives from across Australia joined the glitter and glam marching in tonight’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. The nurses and midwives decked in rainbow and glitter scrubs, marched for ‘A better healthcare system for all – a dream worth fighting for’ during tonight’s Travelling from interstate to join the NSW
- [Low paid aged care workers to get 15% pay rise](https://anmj.org.au/low-paid-aged-care-workers-to-get-15-pay-rise/) - Low paid aged care workers to get 15% pay rise
- [Reducing the stigma of medicinal cannabis](https://anmj.org.au/reducing-the-stigma-of-medicinal-cannabis/) - Australian nurses and midwives are being urged to get behind Medicinal Cannabis Awareness Week, and lend their support to the hundreds of thousands of patients who are still battling stigma and ignorance. ‘It’s about being well, not about being high’ is the central theme of Australia’s first Medicinal Cannabis Awareness Week 20-26 February, marking the
- [Black Dog Institute launches learning hub for health professionals](https://anmj.org.au/black-dog-institute-launches-learning-hub-for-health-professionals/) - The Black Dog Institute has launched a new free Health Professional Resource and Education Hub to connect health professionals to online programs, resources and primary care information on mental health. The platform will provide health professionals with access to evidence-based online resources, including accredited training modules, webinars, podcasts and other e-Mental Health in Practice (eMHPrac)
- [Q&A: Third-year nursing student](https://anmj.org.au/qa-third-year-nursing-student/) - Third-year CQUniversity student Danelle Ireland shares her insights with the ANMJ. What attracted you to nursing? I have been a professional photographer for 20 years, specialising in newborn and baby portraiture. Then COVID came along and I was looking for a change. When I reflected on what I really wanted to do, nursing came to
- [Unions get behind ‘Yes’ campaign on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/unions-get-behind-yes-campaign-on-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-voice-to-parliament/) - In 2023, Australia will hold a referendum to decide whether an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice should be enshrined in the Constitution. If supported, the change would enable First Nations people to provide advice to the Parliament on a range of policies and laws that impact their lives. Standing in solidarity with Aboriginal and
- [Ngunnawal woman and registered nurse advocates Voice to Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/ngunnawal-woman-and-registered-nurse-advocates-voice-to-parliament/) - Ngunnawal woman and registered nurse advocates Voice to Parliament
- [The National Nursing and Midwifery Digital Health Capability Framework: What it is and how to use it](https://anmj.org.au/the-national-nursing-and-midwifery-digital-health-capability-framework-what-it-is-and-how-to-use-it/) - Where are you at with digital capability? The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) are promoting a suite of resources to help you in using the National Nursing and Midwifery Digital Health Framework to assess your level of digital capability in your individual practice. Here’s what you need
- [Transition from country nursing to telehealth: A Western Australian perspective](https://anmj.org.au/transition-from-country-nursing-to-telehealth-a-western-australian-perspective/) - Interested in telehealth nursing? WA Country Health Service (WACHS) Command Centre Coordinator of Nursing and Midwifery Mel Goode shares her journey to telehealth with the ANMJ. Emergency department (ED) nurse of 25 years, Mel Goode was UK-trained and working at the Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth when her husband, a police officer was deployed to
- [5 reasons to choose aged care as a career pathway as a registered nurse](https://anmj.org.au/5-reasons-to-choose-aged-care-as-a-career-pathway-as-a-registered-nurse/) - “My role working as a registered nurse in aged care has always been extremely exciting, sometimes challenging and very satisfying”, says Charles Sturt University (CSU) Associate Professor of Nursing Maree Bernoth. Associate Professor Maree Bernoth has been involved with the residential aged care (RAC) sector as a registered nurse and academic for more than 37
- [Calls for human milk regulation](https://anmj.org.au/calls-for-human-milk-regulation/) - Breast milk should be regulated in the same way as human blood, according to Australian law and bioethics experts concerned with the growing shadow market for human milk, including from body builders and cancer and COVID patients. Recommendations, published as part of a research paper in the Australian Feminist Law Journal, include for a legal
- [Government shines light on ‘confronting’ gender equality challenges](https://anmj.org.au/government-shines-light-on-confronting-gender-equality-challenges/) - Australian women face a range of gender issues and challenges throughout their lives, including experiencing higher rates of sexual violence than men, carrying out more unpaid housework, and approaching retirement with 23.1% less in super savings, Australia’s first Status of Women Report Card has revealed on International Women’s Day. Ranked 43rd for gender equality internationally,
- [Not so super: Government urged to pay superannuation on parental leave](https://anmj.org.au/not-so-super-government-urged-to-pay-superannuation-on-parental-leave/) - Australian women are retiring with about $50,000 less in super savings than men and will continue to lose thousands of dollars until superannuation is paid on Commonwealth Paid Parental Leave, according to new modelling released on International Women’s Day. Analysis by Industry Super Australia (ISA) shows the average super balance for a woman in her
- [Ratios a step closer as NSW election result delivers renewed hope for nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/ratios-a-step-closer-as-nsw-election-result-delivers-renewed-hope-for-nurses-and-midwives/) - Ratios a step closer as NSW election result delivers renewed hope for nurses and midwives
- [First Nations representatives to guide National Boards’ consideration of allegations of racism](https://anmj.org.au/first-nations-representatives-to-guide-national-boards-consideration-of-allegations-of-racism/) - A minimum of two First Nations representatives will play a key role in making regulatory decisions about matters concerning culturally safe healthcare and racism where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are involved, Ahpra and the National Boards have announced. Building on its efforts to eliminating racism from healthcare, the implementation of the new culturally
- [Critical care nurses shun ‘hero’ and ‘angel’ tags during COVID-19, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/critical-care-nurses-shun-hero-and-angel-tags-during-covid-19-study-finds/) - From the moment the COVID-19 pandemic emerged across the globe, nurses were thrust into the spotlight and began being described as “frontline heroes” and “angels” in the media and across the community. While well intentioned, the use of the angel/hero narrative didn’t always project the most positive, or accurate, images of nurses and the nursing
- [Vaping increasing among young Australians with multiple health risks](https://anmj.org.au/vaping-increasing-among-young-australians-with-multiple-health-risks/) - E-cigarette use among young Australians has increased alarmingly with young non-smokers who use e-cigarettes about three times as likely to go on to smoke regular cigarettes, research shows. The research has re-ignited calls for Australian governments to take action on the illegal sale of e-cigarette products by some retailers across the country. The open-access study,
- [High rates of adverse physical and mental health in children held in detention on Nauru, retrospective study shows](https://anmj.org.au/high-rates-of-adverse-physical-and-mental-health-in-children-held-in-detention-on-nauru-retrospective-study-shows/) - A wide range of health issues have been observed in children and young people seeking asylum who were subjected to offshore processing. A sample of asylum seeking children and young people (CYP) held on Nauru were found to have high rates of physical and mental health problems around the time of transfer from Nauru, according to
- [Australia’s first endometriosis clinics roll out nationally](https://anmj.org.au/australias-first-endometriosis-clinics-roll-out-nationally/) - The federal government is rolling out Australia’s first endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics across the country. The 20 clinics will provide expert, multidisciplinary services and care for women experiencing endometriosis and pelvic pain. Endometriosis affects at least one in nine Australian women and can have an extensive, devastating impact on the daily lives of sufferers.
- [State of nursing workforce a ‘global health emergency’, ICN report finds](https://anmj.org.au/state-of-nursing-workforce-a-global-health-emergency-icn-report-finds/) - State of nursing workforce a ‘global health emergency’, ICN report finds
- [One in five adults unable to name heart attack symptom](https://anmj.org.au/one-in-five-adults-unable-to-name-heart-attack-symptom/) - One in five adults in Australia are unable to name any heart attack symptoms, and only around half report chest pain as a symptom. Published in journal Heart, Lung and Circulation, the research examined awareness during and following the Heart Foundation’s Warning Signs Campaign, which ran from 2010-2013. The Warning Signs campaign improved Australians’ awareness
- [Education program to help nurses and midwives create and present conference abstracts](https://anmj.org.au/education-program-to-help-nurses-and-midwives-create-and-present-conference-abstracts/) - Ever considered writing an abstract for a health conference but don’t know where to begin? The Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine (ASHM) has you covered, launching a new on-demand training program to help nurses and midwives develop, submit and present effective conference abstracts. The series of webinars provides expert advice
- [Pioneering “poo transplant” trial gives hope to severely ill cancer patients](https://anmj.org.au/pioneering-poo-transplant-trial-gives-hope-to-severely-ill-cancer-patients/) - The benefits of a healthy gut microbiome are being harnessed in an Australian-first “poo transplant” trial aimed at saving the lives of severely ill blood cancer patients and meeting urgent need for new treatments. The clinical trial, led by QIMR Berghofer clinician-scientist Dr Andrea Henden at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH), uses a new
- [CoNNMO: Australia’s nursing and midwifery alliance influencing healthcare across the lifespan](https://anmj.org.au/connmo-australias-nursing-and-midwifery-alliance-influencing-healthcare-across-the-lifespan/) - Australia’s national coalition of nursing and midwifery organisations has secured renewed funding from the federal government, including for the first time, sitting fees for member attendance, recognising the inherent value of the alliance. “This is significant recognition of the value of nurses, midwives and CoNNMO that makes a big difference to the vast majority of
- [Promising new Network set to boost nursing and midwifery research](https://anmj.org.au/promising-new-network-set-to-boost-nursing-and-midwifery-research/) - The recently formed Australasian Nursing and Midwifery Clinical Trials Network (ANMCTN) is set to elevate and support nursing and midwifery research across Australasia. The world first Network, formed in 2020, brings together academic institutions to enhance, support and facilitate nurse or midwife-led clinical research. Professor Marion Eckert, Director of the Rosemary Bryant AO Research Centre
- [Pandemic spike in social cohesion starting to decline](https://anmj.org.au/pandemic-spike-in-social-cohesion-starting-to-decline/) - Social cohesion in Australia increased during the pandemic but is now declining due to a weaker sense of national pride and concerns over growing economic inequality. The findings are from the Mapping Social Cohesion 2022 survey conducted by researchers at the Australian National University (ANU) as part of a new partnership with the Scanlon Foundation
- [Take precautions against respiratory infections in early pregnancy](https://anmj.org.au/take-precautions-against-respiratory-infections-in-early-pregnancy/) - Experiencing severe respiratory infections during the first trimester of pregnancy triples the risk of some cardiovascular defects at birth, a UNSW Sydney study has found. The findings have prompted UNSW researchers to recommend women take precautions against contracting respiratory infection during pregnancy including influenza vaccination, not smoking or undergoing x-rays where possible. “There is limited
- [Australia’s gender pay gap in 2023- its causes and promising reforms](https://anmj.org.au/australias-gender-pay-gap-in-2023-its-causes-and-promising-reforms/) - Australia’s national gender pay gap (GPG) across public and private sector employers sits at 22.8%, the same as in 2021. This means women earn, on average, $263.90 less than men each week. The ANMF’s membership is predominantly female, with 89% of the nursing profession identifying as women. Measures to eliminate the gender pay gap are
- [Aged care: Change is afoot](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-change-is-afoot/) - Nurses and care workers working in aged care understand firsthand the desperate need for change within the sector to improve care delivery and working conditions. The ANMF has been campaigning for decades to improve the visibility of the long-standing issues in aged care and improve care delivery. The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and
- [New COVID-19 leave grants to support aged care workers](https://anmj.org.au/new-covid-19-leave-grants-to-support-aged-care-workers/) - New Aged Care Worker COVID-19 leave grants will be available from 1 April to support permanent or casual aged care workers caring for older Australians most at risk of severe illness, the federal government has announced. Workers will be able to receive a payment of up to $750 directly from their employer when they are
- [National Rural and Remote Nursing Generalist Framework unveiled](https://anmj.org.au/national-rural-and-remote-nursing-generalist-framework-unveiled/) - National Rural and Remote Nursing Generalist Framework unveiled
- [Shift workers at risk of higher blood pressure, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/shift-workers-at-risk-of-higher-blood-pressure-study-finds/) - Shift workers may be at increased risk of higher blood pressure as a result of irregular sleep patterns and changes to sleep duration. Flinders University research has found the chances of higher blood pressure increases exponentially with every hour of sleep lost or change to regular night time routine. The study, published in American Heart
- [Nursing ethics: Lessons from a global pandemic](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-ethics-lessons-from-a-global-pandemic/) - The COVID-19 pandemic has been a time of moral reckoning, says independent scholar and nurse ethicist Dr Megan-Jane Johnstone AO. “Primarily because it has called into question the taken-for-granted values, norms and role expectations of society and the adequacy of accepted professional ethical frameworks for guiding just (fair) decision-making and behaviours during a pandemic.” In
- [Educators must step up to prepare nursing and midwifery students for work in a climate emergency](https://anmj.org.au/educators-must-step-up-to-prepare-nursing-and-midwifery-students-for-work-in-a-climate-emergency/) - Climate change is not a ‘future’ problem – it is impacting the health and wellbeing of the community now. With increasing frequency, droughts, floods, fire, and air pollution, resulting in respiratory disease, vector-borne disease, death, physical injuries, and mental health deterioration, are having a detrimental impact on health.1 Although a global issue, climate change effects
- [Nurse sounds a warning on hearing loss for COVID-19 patients](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-sounds-a-warning-on-hearing-loss-for-covid-19-patients/) - A registered nurse who experienced sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) five weeks after testing positive to COVID-19 has documented her experience to inform research into a little-known side effect of the virus. Kim Gibson, who was fully vaccinated at the time, developed acute hearing loss in one ear, along with vertigo and tinnitus several weeks
- [Meeting the health needs for Aboriginal people in the East Pilbara](https://anmj.org.au/meeting-the-health-needs-for-aboriginal-people-in-the-east-pilbara/) - Western Australian registered nurse Mel Robinson visited Newman in the East Pilbara from 13-18 March to learn about the challenges and solutions in meeting local healthcare needs. She shares her experiences with the ANMJ. My name is Mel Robinson and I am the Director Aboriginal Health at Child and Adolescent Health Service and I have
- [Q&A: Emergency Nurse Practitioner](https://anmj.org.au/qa-emergency-nurse-practitioner/) - South Australian Stuart Smith has been an Emergency Nurse Practitioner for more than two decades. Originally from the UK, Stuart works at Modbury Hospital, where he enjoys the diversity of the Emergency Department, with the bustling environment demanding leadership, emotional intelligence, compassion, and a broad scope of clinical skills. Stuart spoke to the ANMJ about
- [NSW healthcare scholarships welcomed but commitment needed on staffing ratios](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-healthcare-scholarships-welcomed-but-commitment-needed-on-staffing-ratios/) - The incoming NSW Labor government has announced the introduction of 2,000 new scholarships for healthcare students from 2024. The $76 million investment aimed to attract staff and retain talent in the NSW public health system has been welcomed by the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) who now want commitment from NSW Labor to mandated
- [Checking blood pressure using artificial intelligence and a camera](https://anmj.org.au/checking-blood-pressure-using-artificial-intelligence-and-a-camera/) - Monitoring blood pressure using a digital camera could soon be the norm, thanks to an innovative technique developed by Australian and Iraqi researchers. Using the same remote-health technology they pioneered to monitor vital health signs from a distance, engineers from the University of South Australia and Baghdad’s Middle Technical University have designed a non-contact system
- [Scholarships and subsidies for Victorian nurses , midwives and students open for applications at the end of the month](https://anmj.org.au/scholarships-and-subsidies-for-victorian-nurses-midwives-and-students-open-for-applications-at-the-end-of-the-month/) - Victorian nurses, midwives and students will be able to apply for nursing degree subsidies and scholarships from 26 April as part of the State’s $270 million bid to recruit and train 17,000 nurses. The government hopes that removing the financial barriers to studying and training will attract more people to the professions. As part of
- [Addressing nursing workforce shortages with comprehensive evidence-based strategies](https://anmj.org.au/addressing-nursing-workforce-shortages-with-comprehensive-evidence-based-strategies/) - Even with many decades of extensive research, nursing workforce shortages are persistent, widespread, and growing.1,2 While devastating, the COVID-19 revealed the extent and impact of workforce shortages and highlights the urgency of implementing immediate and sustainable solutions.3,4,5 As such, the pandemic might provide the necessary impetus to address these persistent workforce shortages before they worsen.
- [Rollout begins on new National Nurse and Midwife Health Service](https://anmj.org.au/rollout-begins-on-new-national-nurse-and-midwife-health-service-2/) - Rollout begins on new National Nurse and Midwife Health Service
- [Nursing war hero Vivian Bullwinkel’s legacy burns brightly](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-war-hero-vivian-bullwinkels-legacy-burns-brightly/) - Nursing war hero Vivian Bullwinkel’s legacy burns brightly
- [Enrolled nurses at Southern Cross Care saved from redundancy](https://anmj.org.au/enrolled-nurses-at-southern-cross-care-saved-from-redundancy/) - After six months of uncertainty and stress in the face of impending redundancies, enrolled nurses working across Southern Cross Care Tasmania’s (SCCT) aged care facilities have finally kept their jobs after action led by the Australia Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF Tasmanian Branch) forced the provider to back down on its plans. Today, the ANMF
- [Young pups move into aged care](https://anmj.org.au/young-pups-move-into-aged-care/) - A NSW Central Coast residential aged care facility (RACF) has introduced permanent pet therapy to bring comfort and companionship to its residents. Killarney Court is the first of Alino Living’s five RACFs to trial a permanent pet program, with plans already to expand it to the other sites following the social and emotional benefits seen
- [Learn how nurses and midwives play a crucial part in cyber security](https://anmj.org.au/learn-how-nurses-and-midwives-play-a-crucial-part-in-cyber-security/) - The important role nurses and midwives play in Australia’s cyber security network is the theme of a webinar jointly run by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation and the Australian Digital Health Agency as part of their digital health series. Cyber-attacks can lead to loss or theft of sensitive health information, reputational damage, disruption to
- [Creating momentum towards a greener healthcare system](https://anmj.org.au/creating-momentum-towards-a-greener-healthcare-system/) - Nurses and midwives are key players in leading action on climate change to protect our health. Let’s educate, support and encourage each other to achieve a sustainable future. Health service delivery in Australia currently contributes 7% to our nation’s emissions. Fortunately, the response to climate change is increasingly being recognised as a healthcare priority across the
- [Nursing community left heartbroken by tragic death of paramedic and registered nurse Steven Tougher](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-community-left-heartbroken-by-tragic-death-of-paramedic-and-registered-nurse-steven-tougher/) - Nursing community left heartbroken by tragic death of paramedic and registered nurse Steven Tougher
- [Strength, will and knowledge: critical components for aged care nursing](https://anmj.org.au/strength-will-and-knowledge-critical-components-for-aged-care-nursing/) - When Gerardine (Ged) Kearney MP, now Assistant Minister for Health and Aged care, made her maiden speech in 2018, she had this to say about aged care: “While some enterprises in aged care are caring providers that struggle to stay afloat, too many are simply investors who cut costs and services to maintain profit. When
- [ANMF says RN 24/7 is critical to ensuring safe care for older Australians](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-says-rn-24-7-is-critical-to-ensuring-safe-care-for-older-australians/) - The Government has revealed that almost 80% of the country’s aged care facilities have already meet 24/7 nursing requirements, with ‘another 9%’ close to meeting the nurse to patient ratio target. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation said the Government had a plan to assist the remaining aged care facilities in the transition to meet
- [Federal Budget 2023: What is the ANMF asking for?](https://anmj.org.au/federal-budget-2023-what-is-the-anmf-asking-for/) - Federal Budget 2023: What is the ANMF asking for?
- [More clinical placements needed to grow nursing workforce, peak body says](https://anmj.org.au/more-clinical-placements-needed-to-grow-nursing-workforce-peak-body-says/) - As workforce shortages loom, more quality clinical placements are necessary to ensure the country has enough nurses to meet growing healthcare demand, according to Universities Australia. The peak body for the sector highlighted the issue last Friday following developments from National Cabinet, which endorsed $2.2 billion package of “practical measures” to strengthen Medicare on the
- [Celebrating International Day of the Midwife - 5 May](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-international-day-of-the-midwife-5-may/) - Each year, the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) lead global celebrations for International Day of the Midwife (5 May). This year’s IDM theme is ‘Together again: from evidence to reality’, with ICM acknowledging its upcoming 33rd ICM Triennial Congress, where the global midwife community will come together for the first time in more than five
- [ANMF welcomes federal government crackdown on illegal recreational vaping](https://anmj.org.au/anmf-welcomes-federal-government-crackdown-on-illegal-recreational-vaping/) - “It will be tough but we are determined to do it,” said Federal Health Minister Mark Butler of his government’s plans to clamp down on widespread illegal recreational vaping in Australia. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has welcomed the sweeping reforms announced by the federal government to stamp out recreational vaping that has
- [Could trained RN clinical supervisors enhance nursing students’ clinical placements?](https://anmj.org.au/could-trained-rn-clinical-supervisors-enhance-nursing-students-clinical-placements/) - Upskilling registered nurses for clinical supervision could help improve the quality and consistency of nursing students’ clinical placement experiences, according to a recent paper. With evidence showing that nursing students’ placement experiences can be improved, researchers from across Australia set out to explore options for upskilling RN clinical supervisors to fill the gaps and enhance
- [Advanced practice nurses caring for communities in need](https://anmj.org.au/advanced-practice-nurses-caring-for-communities-in-need/) - “There isn’t many free services available for people with acute injuries and illnesses that provide such a holistic service, and have the time to be able to do that,” says Advanced Practice Nurse Anna Petchell, of Canberra’s successful nurse-led Walk-in Centres. Anna started working at the centres, which provide free healthcare for non-life threatening injuries
- [NSWNMA to guide state government on nurse-to-patient ratios implementation](https://anmj.org.au/nswnma-to-guide-state-government-on-nurse-to-patient-ratios-implementation/) - The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) will team up with the NSW Government as it moves ahead to deliver on its election promise to implement historic nurse-to-patient ratios across the state’s public hospitals. The union, along with NSW Health officials, will lead a new Safe Staffing Working Group charged with planning the rollout of
- [Be part of the Vivian  Bullwinkel commemorative book](https://anmj.org.au/be-part-of-the-vivian-bullwinkel-commemorative-book/) - Australians are being invited this ANZAC Day to share any stories or reflections of Bangka Island World War II nurses for a commemorative book detailing Vivian Bullwinkel’s life and legacy. The commemorative book will be launched at the unveiling of the Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel sculpture at the Australian War Memorial later this year. In
- [New cosmetic accreditation standards to tighten up industry](https://anmj.org.au/new-cosmetic-accreditation-standards-to-tighten-up-industry/) - New cosmetic surgery accreditation standards have been released as part of a package of reforms designed to clean up the cosmetic surgery industry, raise standards and better protect patients. Health professionals practising cosmetic surgery will need to meet tougher regulations from 1 July 2023. New accreditation standards have come into effect from 19 April. New
- [Celebrating  the amazing work of nurses this International Nurses Day](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-the-amazing-work-of-nurses-this-international-nurses-day/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is wishing all of their nursing colleagues around Australia a happy International Nurses Day. On this day, the union is asking us all to recognise the extraordinary, 24/7 contribution nurses make in caring for people right across the community. The theme of this year’s IND is Our Nurses.
- [Distressed and devalued: Aged care workers’ experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic](https://anmj.org.au/distressed-and-devalued-aged-care-workers-experiences-of-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - The COVID-19 pandemic demanded a rapid response from the aged care workforce, with the unprecedented challenges leading to increased workloads, intensified emotional demands and staff feeling undervalued, a study has found. Seeking to understand aged care worker’s experiences of the pandemic, University of Tasmania researchers interviewed 15 aged care workers from across Australia. Analysis of
- [Federal Budget offers pathway for better care delivery](https://anmj.org.au/federal-budget-offers-pathway-for-better-care-delivery/) - The Federal Budget handed down last night provides a pathway for nurses and midwives to deliver better healthcare across communities, according to the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF). The ANMF has welcomed the Albanese Government’s review of the scope of practice of healthcare professionals, including nurses and midwives, along with other key investments as
- [‘Red tape’: Collaborative arrangements for Nurse Practitioners scrapped](https://anmj.org.au/red-tape-collaborative-arrangements-for-nurse-practitioners-scrapped/) - NSW Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Jo Perks needed the tick of approval from a doctor to provide care to women, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, at a health centre in south-west Sydney. Since 2010, legislation has required NPs and eligible midwives across Australia to establish collaborative arrangements with doctors in order to practice in a range
- [Celebrating International Nurses Day - 12 May](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-international-nurses-day/) - Celebrating International Nurses Day - 12 May
- [‘I felt unsafe’: Why I had to stop working in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/i-felt-unsafe-why-i-had-to-stop-working-in-aged-care/) - In 2020, after nearly a decade working in ED, NSW registered nurse Emma McSeveny pivoted into aged care, believing that her broad experience and skillset could bring value to the sector. Within just three years, however, overwhelmed by not enough staff and poor working conditions and wages, she reluctantly made the decision to stop working
- [Taxpayer-funding for aged care must go directly to nurses and care workers – not into providers’ pockets ANMF says](https://anmj.org.au/taxpayer-funding-for-aged-care-must-go-directly-to-nurses-and-care-workers-not-into-providers-pockets-anmf-says/) - The Albanese Government has announced it will fund the long-awaited 15% pay rise for the aged care workforce. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) welcomed the announcement but the union has expressed bitter disappointment and serious concerns that underpaid nurses and care workers may be denied better wages, because the Government has failed to
- [Digital health project to ease burden on hospitals, GP clinics](https://anmj.org.au/digital-health-project-to-ease-burden-on-hospitals-gp-clinics/) - A new project is aiming to build a “digital health workforce” of nurses, doctors and allied health to better target the needs of people living with chronic diseases in low socioeconomic neighbourhoods by making virtual care and telemonitoring more efficient. Led by Flinders University, the $1.1 million ‘safe@home’ hopes that providing affordable and effective primary
- [‘We want legitimate power’: CATSINaM’s new CEO, Dr Ali Drummond, drives new era](https://anmj.org.au/we-want-legitimate-power-catsinams-new-ceo-dr-ali-drummond-drives-new-era/) - Dr Ali Drummond, a Meriam, Erubam and Wuthathi man, followed the footsteps of his mother, a Torres Strait Islander health worker, to pursue a career in health and become a nurse. Back in 2005, he was one of just three students to complete a Bachelor of Nursing degree in his hometown, at James Cook University’s
- [Funding bid for nursing and midwifery research program ahead of May Budget](https://anmj.org.au/funding-bid-for-nursing-and-midwifery-research-program-ahead-of-may-budget/) - The Australasian Nursing and Midwifery Clinical Trials Network (ANMCTN) has put in a bid for federal government funding in the 2023-24 Budget to build and expand nursing and midwifery led clinical research. Importantly, the funding bid will facilitate growth of the ANMCTN’s recently developed mentoring program aimed at building early and mid-career nurse and midwife
- [The recycling, reusing, and repurposing of nursing and medical equipment in nursing education](https://anmj.org.au/the-recycling-reusing-and-repurposing-of-nursing-and-medical-equipment-in-nursing-education/) - With the challenges facing the world today surrounding how we might protect our environment; the recycling of waste products has been pushed to the forefront of Australians’ minds. The Holmesglen Institute in Moorabbin is a state government funded Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institution that provides Bachelor of Nursing and Diploma of Nursing courses; a
- [Better pay just the first step to ensuring quality care](https://anmj.org.au/better-pay-just-the-first-step-to-ensuring-quality-care/) - Better pay just the first step to ensuring quality care
- [Nurses and midwives support ‘Yes’ vote for a First Nations Voice to Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-and-midwives-support-yes-vote-for-a-first-nations-voice-to-parliament/) - Nurses and midwives support ‘Yes’ vote for a First Nations Voice to Parliament
- [Evidence Brief: The World Health Organization’s Statement on the antigen composition of COVID-19 vaccines](https://anmj.org.au/evidence-brief-the-world-health-organizations-statement-on-the-antigen-composition-of-covid-19-vaccines/) - The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Technical Advisory Group on COVID-19 Vaccine Composition (TAG-CO-VAC) assesses how the SARS-CoV-2 virus’ evolution might impact on COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition and advises the WHO on whether changes are needed to the antigen composition of future COVID-19 vaccines. This helps vaccine developers and decision makers decide on how to commit
- [Aged care facilities less homely than schools, research shows](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-facilities-less-homely-than-schools-research-shows/) - Many schools are better than aged care facilities when it comes to creating homeliness and a sense of identity for their residents, research shows. The design of some Australian nursing homes may be worsening the health and quality of life of older people, according to Queensland University of Technology (QUT) design researchers whose study found
- [‘Matters of Life and Death’: National Palliative Care Week 2023](https://anmj.org.au/matters-of-life-and-death-national-palliative-care-week-2023/) - “We understand that death and dying is a difficult subject to talk about and engage with,” says Camilla Rowland, Chief Executive Officer at Palliative Care Australia (PCA). It’s why this year’s National Palliative Care Week (21-27 May) is shining the light on ‘Matters of Life and Death’, with a new video and social media campaign
- [Evidence Brief: Omicron Subvariant Arcturus](https://anmj.org.au/evidence-brief-omicron-subvariant-arcturus/) - SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Omicron subvariant XBB.1.16 (‘Arcturus’) was first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) on 9 January 2023. It was designated as a ‘variant under monitoring’ on 2 March 2023.1 Following sustained increases in reported cases, on 17 April 2023, the WHO designated Arcturus as a ‘variant of interest’ (VOI). The variant has been
- [Advancing women’s health from the frontline](https://anmj.org.au/advancing-womens-health-from-the-frontline/) - Long-time Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) member Lorna Scott is advocating for improved women’s healthcare as a representative on the federal government’s National Women’s Health Advisory Council. Ms Scott, a women’s health nurse practitioner (NP), midwife and Vice President of the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) was appointed to the newly-created federal government’s
- [‘Nothing about us without us’: Why the First Nations Voice to Parliament is nurses’ business](https://anmj.org.au/nothing-about-us-without-us-why-the-first-nations-voice-to-parliament-is-nurses-business/) - ‘Nothing about us without us’: Why the First Nations Voice to Parliament is nurses’ business
- [New hotline to report substandard food in nursing homes](https://anmj.org.au/new-hotline-to-report-substandard-food-in-nursing-homes/) - Nursing home residents and their families will soon have the ability to report aged care providers for serving substandard meals, with a new food ‘hotline’ headlining a range of measures announced yesterday by the federal government to lift the standard of food and nutrition in the sector. The $12.9 million investment, part of the $36
- [Mortality and cost of severe acute pancreatitis keeps pressure on hospitals, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/mortality-and-cost-of-severe-acute-pancreatitis-keeps-pressure-on-hospitals-study-finds/) - Medical experts in Australasia have raised concern about the rising burden of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) in intensive care units in light of no change in mortality rates in these critically ill patients in almost two decades. In the absence of a specific cure for acute pancreatitis, the Flinders University and Australian and New Zealand
- [Progress towards women’s equality but more to be done](https://anmj.org.au/progress-towards-womens-equality-but-more-to-be-done/) - Progress towards women’s equality but more to be done
- [New Nurse Practitioner Workforce Plan set to ease demands on health and aged care](https://anmj.org.au/new-nurse-practitioner-workforce-plan-set-to-ease-demands-on-health-and-aged-care/) - A Nurse Practitioner Workforce Plan (Plan), which aims to expand the services of highly-trained Nurse Practitioners (NPs), will help address increasing demands for health and aged care and chronic workforce shortages across the country. The Plan, Supported by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation, builds on a number of reforms for NPs announced in the
- [Clinical placements need rethink to optimise student learning, study finds](https://anmj.org.au/clinical-placements-need-rethink-to-optimise-student-learning-study-finds/) - Nursing students rate spending time with patients, performing assessments and observing nurses as they work the most beneficial to their learning while on clinical placement, a new Australian study has found. Commitments that take them away from the patient, such as tutorials and meetings, were less valued. The study, commissioned by the Council of Deans
- [Final-year university placement helps transition to aged care career](https://anmj.org.au/final-year-university-placement-helps-transition-to-aged-care-career/) - A novel final-year university placement is helping nursing students’ fast-track their transition into aged care. One of the first in Australia, a final year placement program by the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) and aged care provider Lutheran Services, could become a model for the sector. The ‘Transition to Practice’ program provides UniSC Bachelor
- [Research initiative to ‘supercharge’ innovative models of primary care](https://anmj.org.au/research-initiative-to-supercharge-innovative-models-of-primary-care/) - Research initiative to ‘supercharge’ innovative models of primary care
- [Preserve ocean health to preserve human health: World Oceans Day](https://anmj.org.au/preserve-ocean-health-to-preserve-human-health-world-ocean-day/) - To mark World Oceans Day today, researchers and conservation groups worldwide have published new insights reinforcing how human health depends on thriving oceans. Published in The Lancet, Human Health Depends on Thriving Oceans, describes how crucial the world’s oceans are due to their role in carbon storage, climate regulation, food provision, and even providing medicinal resources.
- [Aged Care Minister outlines ambition to bring sector ‘back from the brink’](https://anmj.org.au/aged-care-minister-outlines-ambition-to-bring-sector-back-from-the-brink/) - “How our nation provides for the final years of a citizen’s life is worthy not only of dedication and dollars but of ambition,” declared Aged Care Minister Anika Wells, in laying out her vision for a better system for older Australians during a National Press Club address in Canberra on Wednesday. Delivering the first ever
- [Heavy burden of clinical placements needs review](https://anmj.org.au/heavy-burden-of-clinical-placements-needs-review/) - Lengthy, unpaid placements in higher education causing stress and financial instability for students have prompted calls for greater flexibility and sustainability in undergraduate clinical learning. Charles Darwin University (CDU) Head of Social Work, Associate Professor Lisa Hodge, told the ANMJ that a lack of flexibility and financial pressures put a strain on students who needed
- [Older people ‘dehumanised’ in the media: Need better representation](https://anmj.org.au/older-people-dehumanised-in-the-media-need-better-representation/) - The voice of politicians and other ‘elites’ are given greater media attention as sources than those of aged care staff, residents and their families skewering reporting of the sector, research shows. If news organisations in Australia created a ‘round’ for reporting on ageing and aged care issues, the often-marginalised sector would be better represented and
- [Understand your motives in the pursuit of personal goals](https://anmj.org.au/understand-your-motives-in-the-pursuit-of-personal-goals-2/) - Being aware of your underlying motives in pursuing personal goals is key to protecting your mental health and wellbeing, according to Western Australian researchers. Human behaviour is structured to attain personal goals. Despite providing a person with a sense of meaning and purpose, some types of goals and styles of goal pursuit have been associated
- [From Ethicist to Artist: A natural transition](https://anmj.org.au/from-ethicist-to-artist-a-natural-transition-2/) - Retired Professor of Nursing and Independent Scholar Dr Megan-Jane Johnstone AO has turned her hand to her first love – art – with the same fervour she applied to a lifetime career in nursing and healthcare ethics. “The two are so closely interrelated that it has been a natural transition for me to go from
- [‘I had to get out’: Enrolled Nurse opens up on leaving aged care sector](https://anmj.org.au/i-had-to-get-out-enrolled-nurse-opens-up-on-leaving-the-aged-care-sector/) - After her elderly mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Sue Hewson undertook a care worker course so that she could remain living at home, and to help her father. It included a placement in aged care, a sector she immediately enjoyed and appreciated. So much so, that she quit her job as a bookkeeper to focus
- [Health advocates join calls for urgent action on ‘dangerous’ air pollution](https://anmj.org.au/health-advocates-join-calls-for-urgent-action-on-dangerous-air-pollution/) - The Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA) has joined advocates calling for a strong fuel efficiency standard to reduce the incidence of asthma, cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, neurodegenerative disorders and premature deaths in Australia, in response to the federal government’s consultation on the Standard closing today. CAHA joins other transport advocates in recommending a starting Standard
- [How nurses and midwives are embracing digital health technologies to support patient care](https://anmj.org.au/how-nurses-and-midwives-are-embracing-digital-health-technologies-to-support-patient-care/) - How nurses and midwives are embracing digital health technologies to support patient care
- [A step towards smartwatches supporting chronic disease prevention in healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/a-step-towards-smartwatches-supporting-chronic-disease-prevention-in-healthcare/) - University of Queensland researchers have developed a roadmap for the potential integration of smartwatches into Australian healthcare – but concede there are still several challenges to overcome. According to Dr Graeme Mattison, from UQ’s Faculty of Medicine, using smartwatches for a comprehensive analysis of a patient’s health could enable personalised care for people diagnosed with
- [Rural Australians missing out on $6.5 billion in healthcare access, report finds](https://anmj.org.au/rural-australians-missing-out-on-6-5-billion-in-healthcare-access-report-finds/) - Rural Australians missing out on $6.5 billion in healthcare access, report finds
- [Refugee Week 2023: Nurses making a difference](https://anmj.org.au/refugee-week-2023-nurses-making-a-difference/) - As a Refugee Health Nurse, Maria Loupetis provides a range of healthcare services for newly arrived people from refugee backgrounds, including some who have been here for longer but fallen through the healthcare cracks, as well as people seeking asylum, living across Melbourne’s Eastern suburbs. The nurse-led refugee clinic, run by EACH, provides the cohort
- [Nursing and midwifery tops Ahpra’s criminal prosecutions](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-and-midwifery-tops-ahpras-criminal-prosecutions/) - The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) has racked up its 100th criminal prosecution, with nursing and midwifery topping professions that have been involved in breaking the law the most. Ahpra’s first criminal prosecution was finalised in January 2014 when a West Australian woman was sentenced to a $20,000 fine for claiming to be a
- [‘We need action’: ICN CEO Howard Catton confident 2023 Congress can help advance profession](https://anmj.org.au/we-need-action-icn-ceo-howard-catton-confident-2023-congress-can-help-advance-profession-2/) - ‘We need action’: ICN CEO Howard Catton confident 2023 Congress can help advance profession
- [‘Waste of nursing skill’: A third of primary health care nurses not working to full scope, survey finds](https://anmj.org.au/waste-of-nursing-skill-a-third-of-primary-health-care-nurses-not-working-to-full-scope-survey-finds/) - A third of Australia’s primary health care (PHC) nurses believe their skills are not being fully utilised most of the time, according to a new survey. More than half (53%) of ‘under-utilised’ nurses had requested to use their skills and experience more. Of these, less than four in 10 successfully negotiated a change, while more
- [Project aims to build new generation of gerontology nurses to work in aged care](https://anmj.org.au/project-aims-to-build-new-generation-of-gerontology-nurses-to-work-in-aged-care/) - The University of Canberra will lead a $2.1 million Commonwealth project aimed at building and sustaining the nursing workforce in aged care settings. The project will have two main educational components: training and support for nurse educators, and clinical placements for second and third-year nursing students in residential aged care. Professor of Gerontological Nursing, Kasia
- [‘Never walk alone’: Mentoring Men program helps men get back on track](https://anmj.org.au/never-walk-alone-mentoring-men-program-helps-men-get-back-on-track/) - On average, nine people in Australia take their own lives every day. Glaringly, seven of those are men. With nearly half of men experiencing mental health challenges during their lifetime, Australian charity Mentoring Men was established to provide a listening ear from time to time for men experiencing challenges. Focusing on a proactive approach, engaging
- [Engage men earlier for better health this International Men’s Health Week 2023](https://anmj.org.au/engage-men-earlier-for-better-health-this-international-mens-health-week-2023/) - International Men’s Health Week which runs from 12-18 June each year, is an opportunity to highlight the importance of men’s health, and to promote and support the health and wellbeing of men and boys in our communities. Men are known as late presenters for health concerns and so it’s about engaging them earlier and better
- [Changing the conversation: Nurses, midwives, and addiction](https://anmj.org.au/changing-the-conversation-nurses-midwives-and-addiction/) - The nursing and midwifery professions are currently in a vulnerable position. The workforce is facing critical staff shortages, with a projected national deficit of approximately 85,000 nurses and midwives by 2025 and increasing to 123,000 by 2030 (Health Workforce Australia, 2014). In light of this, it is critical that creative and innovative solutions are pursued
- [Thousands turn up to support YES campaign for Voice to Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/thousands-turn-up-to-support-yes-campaign-for-voice-to-parliament/) - Thousands turn up to support YES campaign for Voice to Parliament
- [Celebrating NAIDOC Week 2023: For Our Elders](https://anmj.org.au/celebrating-naidoc-week-2023-for-our-elders/) - “If I can do it, you can do it,” is the motto of a trailblazing Aboriginal mother and daughter duo at the grassroots of improving access and quality healthcare in their communities, along with inspiring the next generation to choose health as a career pathway. The theme for NAIDOC Week 2023 For Our Elders is
- [Nurses from across the globe dazzle at ICN’s Congress in Montreal](https://anmj.org.au/nurses-from-across-the-globe-dazzle-at-icns-congress-in-montreal/) - Nurses from across the globe dazzle at ICN’s Congress in Montreal
- [How Midwifery Group Practice is improving outcomes for women and babies](https://anmj.org.au/call-on-me-how-midwifery-continuity-of-care-is-improving-outcomes-for-women-and-babies/) - Continuity of midwifery care is associated with better outcomes for mothers and babies, yet, it’s not available to everyone. While support for these models is growing in Australia, more needs to be done, writes Robert Fedele. In 2020, Castlemaine Health, a rural health service in central Victoria, resolved to suspend its maternity service and commission
- ['Safe staffing and better pay': Major changes to rebuild aged care sector begin](https://anmj.org.au/safe-staffing-and-better-pay-major-changes-to-rebuild-aged-care-sector-begin/) - The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) applauds two significant achievements to rebuild the aged care sector, which will come into effect tomorrow. Legislation to implement Registered Nurse (RN) 24/7 comes into operation, and historic wage increases following the Aged Care Work Value decision, will start to flow through to nurses and carers in the
- [Sustainability Champion in healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/sustainability-champion-in-healthcare/) - Sarah Almeroth’s love of the environment has led her on a journey to become a sustainability champion in healthcare. Sarah, who works as the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN) Sustainability Environmental Project Officer, became interested in climate change and healthcare when studying for her undergraduate nursing degree. “There was a real connection for me
- [Mental health, wellbeing, and support needs of nursing students - ‘Help! I’m overwhelmed, I need an extension’](https://anmj.org.au/mental-health-wellbeing-and-support-needs-of-nursing-students-help-im-overwhelmed-i-need-an-extension/) - High and increasing prevalence rates of mental health problems among young people mean that youth mental health is a key priority for policymakers worldwide.1 University students around the world have increased vulnerability to poor mental health.2,3 Studying nursing is often regarded as more stressful than other healthcare studies, leading to compromised mental wellbeing in students.4
- [Gender equality stagnant across the globe](https://anmj.org.au/gender-equality-stagnant-across-the-globe/) - Bias against women is similar to what it was a decade ago and gender equality is stagnant, according to the latest United Nations (UN) 2023 Gender Social Norms Index. In 2015 the United Nations set out 17 goals as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – one of these goals was to achieve gender
- [Enrolled Nurse minutes a key pillar of funding for aged care reforms](https://anmj.org.au/enrolled-nurse-minutes-a-key-pillar-of-funding-for-aged-care-reforms/) - Enrolled Nurses are a key part of increased funding provided by the Australian Government to ensure all nursing homes have an appropriate mix of RNs, ENs and PCWs/AINs as they meet minimum care minute responsibilities, in line with recommendations made by the landmark Aged Care Royal Commission. But it’s not what some aged care providers
- [First impressions from a 1st year midwifery student](https://anmj.org.au/first-impressions-from-a-1st-year-midwifery-student/) - “I now realise that every woman’s journey is different,” says Eva Barba, first year Bachelor of Midwifery student at the Australian Catholic University (ACU). Eva shares her first impressions of midwifery with the ANMJ. What attracted you to midwifery? I have wanted to be a midwife since I was 10 years old. I was a
- [The risk of boundary violations for inexperienced practitioners](https://anmj.org.au/the-risk-of-boundary-violations-for-inexperienced-practitioners/) - Developing and maintaining therapeutic relationships with clients is a core part of a clinician’s role. Boundary crossings render this relationship vulnerable whilst boundary violations have the potential to do substantial harm to the client. New practitioners are particularly vulnerable to boundary errors and can find themselves ‘out of their depth’ without realising this, as the
- [Gender equity and safe workplaces](https://anmj.org.au/gender-equity-and-safe-workplaces/) - The ANMF’s membership base is overwhelmingly made up of women, making gender equity an urgent and pressing priority for the ANMF. The past 12 months have seen some significant steps forward with industrial reforms targeted at improving gender equity outcomes, specifically with the aim of creating safe and inclusive workplaces for women. Respect@Work Late last
- [Reducing midwives risk of work-related injury](https://anmj.org.au/reducing-midwives-risk-of-work-related-injury/) - Search for an image of a “midwife,” and you will see the internationally identified photo of our profession – a smiling midwife with their head turned, bent over a pregnant belly listening to a foetal heart through a pinard stethoscope. This heart-warming posture is demonstrative of the strange positions that midwives adopt during their regular
- [Patient abuse towards medical receptionists rife](https://anmj.org.au/patient-abuse-towards-medical-receptionists-rife/) - Verbal and physical abuse of medical receptionists by patients is rife, and causing lasting harm according to new research from the University of Queensland (UQ). The research found zero tolerance approaches and visible safety measures like clear acrylic barriers and lockable doors at reception areas were ineffective deterrents in reducing patient aggression. UQ’s Centre for
- [New opt-in patient registry for psychedelic based therapy](https://anmj.org.au/new-opt-in-patient-registry-for-psychedelic-based-therapy/) - A new national patient registry will help inform the effectiveness and safety of prescribing psychedelic substances to patients with serious mental health conditions including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It follows the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)’s decision to allow authorised psychiatrists to prescribe medicines containing the psychedelic substances MDMA (ecstasy) and psilocybin, a compound
- [Can nurses get a good night’s sleep?](https://anmj.org.au/can-nurses-get-a-good-nights-sleep/) - Is healthy sleep achievable for nurses who work rotating shift work? It’s a thought-provoking question posed by Dr Lisa Matricciani, a sleep researcher and lecturer in Nursing at the University of South Australia, and fellow authors in a recent guest editorial in the December 2022 – February 2023 issue of the Australian Journal of Advanced
- [‘I’m not here to get you high’: Meet Cannabis Nurse Deb Ranson](https://anmj.org.au/im-not-here-to-get-you-high-meet-cannabis-nurse-deb-ranson/) - Looking on from afar, registered nurse Deb Ranson was always intrigued about medicinal cannabis and its potential to ease pain and symptoms triggered by a range of conditions and diseases. She recalls listening to countless stories from patients and families about how the drug helped improve quality of life and wanted to delve deeper. The
- [Adelaide nurse provides protective presence against human rights abuses in Palestine](https://anmj.org.au/adelaide-nurse-provides-protective-presence-against-human-rights-abuses-in-palestine/) - Adelaide nurse provides protective presence against human rights abuses in Palestine
- [Nurse practitioners enabled to prescribe medical abortion pill](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-practitioners-enabled-to-prescribe-medical-abortion-pill/) - Women across Australia are set to have easier access to medical abortions under landmark changes that will remove restrictions on health professionals, including nurse practitioners, doctors, and pharmacists, prescribing, and dispensing, termination pills. The Therapeutic Goods Administration decision means that, from 1 August, doctors and pharmacists will no longer be required to register and be
- [Is medicinal cannabis the answer to endometriosis pain?](https://anmj.org.au/is-medicinal-cannabis-the-answer-to-endometriosis-pain/) - The potential use of medicinal cannabis for pain management in people with endometriosis is being explored by Victorian and NSW researchers in two separate studies. The upcoming Australian Medicinal Nursing Symposium being held 11 August will explore the rising use of medicinal cannabis for patients with a range of conditions, including endometriosis. The ‘EndoCannED’ trial
- [Nursing and midwifery research – how do I get started?](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-and-midwifery-research-how-do-i-get-started/) - Nursing and midwifery practice significantly impacts the health of Australians. This makes nursing and midwifery research critical. The best people to conduct this research are nurses and midwives themselves, says Deborah Forsythe, an academic researcher in UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences with the Rosemary Bryant AO Research Centre. Based on her discussion paper, titled ‘Nursing
- [Q&A: Cancer Nurse](https://anmj.org.au/qa-cancer-nurse/) - Meredith Cummins has been a cancer nurse for nearly 40 years, with the speciality allowing her to take up a variety of roles in the public sector across major metropolitan and regional hospitals, and community oncology units. In the private sector, she has been a key stakeholder in the development, commissioning and accreditation of four
- [Why this nurse is voting ‘Yes’ on the Voice to Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/why-this-nurse-is-voting-yes-on-the-voice-to-parliament/) - Why this nurse is voting ‘Yes’ on the Voice to Parliament
- [Clinical Documentation Improvement- a nursing role?](https://anmj.org.au/clinical-documentation-improvement-a-nursing-role/) - If I had been told 20 years ago that my future nursing role would be reading inpatient notes to look for missing diagnoses of comorbidities and complications that clinicians were actively treating, I would have said no way! I would have been working at a very busy Melbourne Emergency Department at the time, living off
- [Voice to Parliament the structural reform needed to Closing the Gap](https://anmj.org.au/voice-to-parliament-the-structural-reform-needed-to-closing-the-gap/) - “More of the same isn’t good enough, we have to do better,” said Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney on the release of the latest Closing the Gap report which shows slow progress with few targets on track to be met by 2031. An Indigenous Voice to Parliament is the structural reform needed to
- [Report finds Australia’s first drug-checking site is changing ‘drug behaviours’](https://anmj.org.au/report-finds-australias-first-drug-checking-site-is-changing-drug-behaviours/) - Nearly half of the drugs tested at Australia’s first fixed-site pill testing service were not what the user thought they were, a new report has found. Once people accessing the service discovered what was in the drug, about one in ten discarded the drug at the service. When the substance was not what the service
- [Nurse Practitioners and gender affirming primary care clinics for transgender and gender diverse people](https://anmj.org.au/nurse-practitioners-and-gender-affirming-primary-care-clinics-for-transgender-and-gender-diverse-people/) - Transgender (sometimes abbreviated as ‘trans’) is a term for people whose gender identity is different to the sex assigned to them at birth. Gender identity refers to a persons’ internal and personal concept of themselves as being male, female, a blend of both, or neither. There is a growing awareness of transgender people in our
- [How nurses can improve access to regional reproductive care](https://anmj.org.au/how-nurses-can-improve-access-to-regional-reproductive-care/) - Women face significant barriers in accessing abortion and contraception in rural and regional Australia due to a lack of local services, according to Monash University researchers. Nurse-led models of care, including increased task sharing between nurses and doctors in general practice, is a key strategy that can increase efficiency and access to these critical services.
- [Working Together to Deliver Better Staffing in Aged Care Facilities](https://anmj.org.au/working-together-to-deliver-better-staffing-in-aged-care-facilities/) - Working Together to Deliver Better Staffing in Aged Care Facilities
- [Virtual reality giving nurses experience in de-escalating aggression](https://anmj.org.au/virtual-reality-giving-nurses-experience-in-de-escalating-aggression/) - A new approach giving nurses and other healthcare providers experience in dealing with aggressive members of the public, without putting them in harm’s way, has been recognised for its outstanding innovation. IVADE is an immersive computer simulation program, developed by Edith Cowan University (ECU), which helps nurses and nursing students practice making decisions when faced
- [Researcher investigates why wounds don’t heal, or form deep scars](https://anmj.org.au/researcher-investigates-why-wounds-dont-heal-or-form-deep-scars/) - A University of South Australia researcher is investigating why some chronic wounds don’t heal and why others that do, form deep scars. According to Wounds Australia, more than 420,000 people suffer from chronic wounds, a common side effect of diabetes, obesity, and vascular and autoimmune diseases, costing the healthcare system more than $3 billion annually.
- [The significance of the Voice to Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/the-significance-of-the-voice-to-parliament/) - While there is much debate on whether we should vote Yes or No to the Voice to Parliament in the upcoming Referendum, Tom Mayo, a Kaurareg Aboriginal and Kalkalgal, Erubamle Torres Strait Islander man, wants Australians to understand that voting Yes is critical to Indigenous peoples who are at a crisis point. Tom is the
- [With Teeth: Why Medicare must include dental care](https://anmj.org.au/with-teeth-why-medicare-must-include-dental-care/) - The Australian healthcare system, under Medicare, provides comprehensive medical coverage for most basic health services.1 However, one crucial aspect that remains noticeably absent is the inclusion of dental care within the national healthcare framework. Under the current system, children aged zero to 17 years are eligible for capped cover on some basic dental services under
- [World-consensus sleep guidelines for shift workers](https://anmj.org.au/world-consensus-sleep-guidelines-for-shift-workers/) - International sleep and shift work researchers have come together in a world-first consensus on how shift workers can best schedule their shuteye. The CQUniversity (CQU) research, published in academic journal SLEEP, outlines 18 clear guidelines to ensure healthy sleep patterns, whether on permanent night shift or a rotating roster. The guidance is good news for
- [New book lifts the lid on women’s experiences of breastfeeding](https://anmj.org.au/new-book-lifts-the-lid-on-womens-experiences-of-breastfeeding/) - One of the most personal and intense aspects of mothering, breastfeeding is all too often assumed to be simple, and the most natural thing in the world. Yet according to new book, Spilt Milk, while breastfeeding can be affirming and trouble-free, for many mothers it is difficult, confusing, painful, and can leave them wracked with
- [Q&A: Nurse backs Voice to Parliament as ‘right thing to do’](https://anmj.org.au/qa-nurse-backs-voice-to-parliament-as-right-thing-to-do/) - Q&A: Nurse backs Voice to Parliament as ‘right thing to do’
- [Pushing boundaries in digital health crucial for healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/pushing-boundaries-in-digital-health-crucial-for-healthcare/) - Can and should nurses push the boundaries in healthcare with digital technology? According to Professor Natasha Phillips, a former UK Chief Nursing Officer and the founder of Future Nurses, it is critical to meet future healthcare needs. Professor Phillips, who spoke at the recent International Nurses Congress held in Montreal, Canada, said historically, the focus
- [Nursing and midwifery recruitment practices hurting low-income countries](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-and-midwifery-recruitment-practices-hurting-low-income-countries/) - Nursing and midwifery recruitment practices hurting low-income countries
- [Strengthening Health systems with the utilisation of advanced practice nurses- a global perspective](https://anmj.org.au/strengthening-health-systems-with-the-utilisation-of-advanced-practice-nurses-a-global-perspective/) - Researchers, who conducted the first-ever study on advanced practice certification programs worldwide, held a policy forum at the recent International council of Nurses’ Congress in Montreal, Canada, to discuss the need to develop and strengthen health systems through the integration of advanced practice nurses (APNs) working in specialty areas of practice. The study, Certification of
- [Husband and wife career switch to nursing](https://anmj.org.au/husband-and-wife-career-switch-to-nursing/) - Husband and wife duo Jacob and Liana Cox have undergone a joint career life change with the aim of becoming nurses in rural and remote communities. For Jacob, a carpenter, and Liana, a police officer, life is a juggle of raising their two young children, while working and studying. Both started a Nursing Science degree
- [Let’s talk about weed: Informing practice](https://anmj.org.au/lets-talk-about-weed-informing-practice/) - Opioid misuse has increased over the last two decades, accompanied by an increasing number of deaths associated with overdose from opioids. In fact, problems related to the therapeutic (prescription misuse) and non-therapeutic (illicit use) of opioids have become a global public health concern. Treatment programs have been established to address opioid addiction. The most used
- [Nursing care for people with intellectual disability](https://anmj.org.au/nursing-care-for-people-with-intellectual-disability/) - With the inception of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) nurses will increasingly need to be competent in the care and support of people with intellectual disability (ID). Nurse academic and disability advocate Virginia Howie talks to the ANMJ. Despite decades of government reform to improve health outcomes for people with ID, mortality and morbidity
- [Donation Specialist Nurse calls on Australians to consider giving someone a lifeline](https://anmj.org.au/donation-specialist-nurse-calls-on-australians-to-consider-giving-someone-a-lifeline/) - “For most Australians, who are otherwise fit and well, they just don’t ever think that they’ll be in that situation,” says Georgina Callaghan, Donation Specialist Nurse Coordinator at The Alfred, on the challenges of raising awareness about the life-changing importance of organ and tissue donation. Statistics show that while 4 in 5 Australians support donation,
- [CATSINaM releases position on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice](https://anmj.org.au/catsinam-releases-position-on-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-voice-2/) - The Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM) has released its position statement on the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum, declaring its support for the proposed law to alter the Constitution, yet, also calling for more action. “CATSINaM believes that a constitutionally enshrined Voice could be a fundamental provision towards recognising
- [NSW nurses protest against coal seam gas mine plans at Pilliga Forest](https://anmj.org.au/nsw-nurses-protest-against-coal-seam-gas-mine-plans-at-pilliga-forest/) - For several years, Gomeroi people in Coonabarabran and Narrabri have been fighting energy giant Santos’ proposed Narrabri Gas Project, which would see 850 coal seam gas (CSG) wells drilled in the iconic Pilliga Forest to extract gas. Known as fracking, the process involves drilling into the earth and directing a high-pressure mix of water, sand
- [Queensland midwives rally following unsafe workload audit](https://anmj.org.au/queensland-midwives-rally-following-unsafe-workload-audit/) - In an unprecedented action, Queensland midwives rallied outside Parliament House yesterday calling for urgent state government midwifery funding. It follows a recent audit of Queensland maternity inpatient wards which found single midwives are being left to care for up to 20 mothers and babies at a time. The Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU, ANMF
- [Leadership drives person-centredness in residential aged care](https://anmj.org.au/leadership-drives-person-centredness-in-residential-aged-care-3/) - Person-centredness, driven by leadership, expressed through meaningful multifaceted relationships, and lived authentically throughout the residential aged care facility (RACF), has real potential to contribute to positive change. The Charles Sturt University (CSU) research explored the connection between leadership and person-centredness in residential aged care. Before this five-year research project, Dr Sean Mack spent 18 years
- [‘YES’ – ACT Nurse backs Voice to Parliament](https://anmj.org.au/yes-act-nurse-backs-voice-to-parliament/) - ‘YES’ – ACT Nurse backs Voice to Parliament
- [Newly graduated Perth nurse competes at university Olympics in China](https://anmj.org.au/newly-graduated-perth-nurse-competes-at-university-olympics-in-china/) - After a momentary slip and falling off the beam during qualifications, newly registered nurse Amanda Edwards didn’t think she’d make it to the finals in the gymnastics competition at the Summer FISU World Games held in China this month. But the 22-year-old, representing Edith Cowan University (ECU) and Australia secured the 18th and last remaining
- [Happy International Neonatal Nurses’ Day](https://anmj.org.au/happy-international-neonatal-nurses-day/) - August 15th is International Neonatal Nurses Day, recognised by the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, which was officially incorporated in 2005 to represent international neonatal nursing and care. A neonatal nurse delivers care to sick or preterm newborn infants and their families during the first 28 days of life and sometimes beyond the first month
- [What Scope and Standards of Practice should Cannabis Nurses follow?](https://anmj.org.au/what-scope-and-standards-of-practice-should-cannabis-nurses-follow/) - The Australian Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) have unveiled new Cannabis Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice to support the growing role medicinal cannabis nurses are playing in providing safe and effective treatment products for patients. Launched at the 2023 United in Compassion Australian Medicinal Cannabis Symposium’s Nurses’ Conference, held last Friday in Brisbane, the document
- [Press play: Inside the Nurse & Midwife Support Podcast](https://anmj.org.au/press-play-inside-the-nurse-midwife-support-podcast/) - Some of the best ideas to enhance Nurse & Midwife Support’s suite of support resources often come from stakeholders themselves, says Consultant and Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Mark Aitken, explaining how the organisation’s venture into podcasts unfolded. Several years ago, he met a nurse at a conference who said she loved reading NM Support’s website content
- [Endocannabinoid system study must be embedded into undergraduate nursing curriculum](https://anmj.org.au/endocannabinoid-system-study-must-be-embedded-into-undergraduate-nursing-curriculum/) - Education about the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates and controls many critical functions such as learning and memory, mood, and pain, must be embedded into undergraduate nursing curriculum across Australia, leading advocates have argued. Speaking at the 2023 United In Compassion Australian Medicinal Cannabis Symposium’s Nurses’ Conference in Brisbane last Friday, Victorian Nurse Practitioner
- [4 tips to keep on top of your Super](https://anmj.org.au/4-tips-to-keep-on-top-of-your-super/) - Superannuation or super is likely to be one of your largest assets. It starts from the time you started working so it’s worth paying attention sooner rather than later because it makes a big difference to what your balance is at retirement. Here are 4 tips to keep on top of you super: Consider contributing
- [Scope of practice review set to ‘unleash’ nurses' full potential](https://anmj.org.au/scope-of-practice-review-set-to-unleash-nurses/) - For too long, nurses and other health professionals haven’t been able to work to their full scope of practice. Now, the federal government wants to unlock their potential, with a new workforce review, launched last week, set to examine how to enable health practitioners to work to the full-extent of their skills and training, thus

## Pages

- [Home](https://anmj.org.au/) - The voice of nursing and midwifery in Australia Australia’s premier destination for industry news, insights and support for nurses, midwives, students and carers Publications News Featured news All news Latest issue Why graduate nurses are burning out June 26, 2026 Category: Grads & Students / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives, Graduates and early career nurses,
- [Publications](https://anmj.org.au/publications/) - Publications The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Journal (ANMJ) is a quarterly publication at the forefront of industry news, advancements and insights specifically for nurses, midwives, students and carers Latest issue The latest ANMJ can be accessed in both ISSUU and PDF formats below. ANMJ Past Issues Jul-Sep 2026 Download pdf Read Online Apr-Jun 2026 Download
- [Career & Practice](https://anmj.org.au/career-practice/) - Career & Practice Supporting and informing on career and practice including career role models, practice advances and resources Featured Story Early malnutrition screening: What nurses need to know June 18, 2026 Read more Category: Career & Practice / Tag: Nurses Read more New guidelines for incontinence medicines for World Continence Week June 17, 2026 Category: Career & Practice
- [About ANMF](https://anmj.org.au/about-anmf/) - About ANMF About the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation is the largest union in Australia with over 356,000 members.The ANMF is run by nurses and midwives with the purpose of advancing the industrial, political and professional status of its members.The ANMF also actively promotes the need for high quality,
- [Terms & Conditions](https://anmj.org.au/terms-conditions/) - ANMJ Terms & Conditions Maggie Beer Recipe Competition The promoter is: Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ABN 41 816 898 298) whose registered office is at Level 1, 365 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000 AustraliaThe competition is open to residents of Australia aged 18 years or over except employees of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation
- [Contribute to ANMJ](https://anmj.org.au/contribute-to-anmj/) - Contribute to ANMJ The ANMJ welcomes articles written by nurses and midwives relevant to the professions. Download the ANMJ Writers’ Guidelines for further information. General InformationArticles may be published on the ANMJ website and/or in the quarterly ANMJAll submissions must include complete author details: name, address, work and home phone numbers, email address, present position and qualifications.Articles should
- [Advertise](https://anmj.org.au/advertise/) - Advertise with ANMJ Explore our advertising options Advertising OpportunitiesThe ANMJ provides a range of advertising opportunities within our printed quarterly journal and via our digital platforms.For more information or a copy of the ANMJ media kit please contact Chris Masters.Email: cmasters@anmf.org.au 2026 Media Kit
- [News](https://anmj.org.au/news/) - Latest News Keeping nurses, midwives, and carers informed with up-to-the-minute healthcare, industry and professional news from around the nation and worldwide Featured Story ANMF launches landmark Work Value Case for nurses and midwives June 10, 2026 Read more Category: News / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives Read more One year on: landmark reforms helping build
- [Justice & Action](https://anmj.org.au/justice-action/) - Justice & Action Informing on the latest industrial rights and action, nursing and midwifery’s collective force and social justice issues relevant to health Featured Story New doco captures mission to bring back Birthing on Country June 23, 2026 Read more Category: Justice & Action / Tag: Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait
- [Interviews](https://anmj.org.au/interviews/) - Interviews Inspiring and insightful interviews with nurses, midwives and carers Featured Story Q&A: Michael Whaites, NSWNMA General Secretary June 19, 2026 Read more Category: Interviews / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives Read more LOCKED OUT: The housing crisis facing nurses and midwives July 3, 2026 Category: Interviews / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives Nurses,
- [Resources](https://anmj.org.au/resources/) - Resources Unlocking a wealth of knowledge with a range of books, clips and podcasts designed to uplift, guide and inspire to support growth and success Search resources Type of resource Type of resource Podcast Publication Topic Topic Careers Midwifery Nursing Wellness Reset Commonwealth Prac Payment – FAQs for Nursing and Midwifery Students Type: Publication /
- [Wellbeing](https://anmj.org.au/wellbeing/) - Wellbeing Wellbeing essentials – Encouraging nurses, midwives and carers to self-care while providing for the health and wellness to their patients Featured Story Medicare Mental Health Check In: Free digital mental health support June 16, 2026 Read more Category: Wellbeing / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives Read more Time poor? Does this increase your risk
- [Research](https://anmj.org.au/research-2/) - Research The latest research and innovation in nursing, midwifery and healthcare from across the nation and worldwide Featured Story Redefining brain fog in menopause June 23, 2026 Read more Category: Research / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives Read more Major new nursing and midwifery research partnership July 10, 2026 Category: Research / Tag: All
- [Digital Health](https://anmj.org.au/digital-health/) - Digital Health Ensuring nurses and midwives stay informed on digital technology revolutionising and transforming healthcare to enhance nursing and midwifery care to improve health outcomes Featured Story New national standards to boost virtual care safety June 24, 2026 Read more Category: Digital Health / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives, Digital health, Virtual care Read more
- [Grads & Students](https://anmj.org.au/grads-students/) - Grads & Students Valuable guidance and resources from industry insiders for a successful and fulfilling career Featured Story UTS to make VR violence prevention training mandatory for nursing students June 17, 2026 Read more Category: Grads & Students / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives, Education, Students Read more Educating students about cultural safety and trauma informed practice
- [Sponsored Posts](https://anmj.org.au/sponsored-posts/) - Sponsored Posts Read the sponsored content from our healthcare partners From our sponsor: Stretch your salary further – without working extra shifts June 16, 2026 Category: Justice & Action, Sponsored Post / Tag: All Nurses And Midwives As a nurse or midwife, you spend your time caring for others – but your income doesn’t always stretch as
- [Contact us](https://anmj.org.au/contact-us/) - Contact us Drop us a line Can we help you with something? Or would you like to leave some feedback? Send an email to anmjadmin@anmf.org.au. We’d love to hear from you!Australian Nursing and Midwifery JournalLevel 1, 365 Queen StMelbourne, VIC 3000AUSTRALIAE: anmjadmin@anmf.org.au

## Publications

- [Jul-Sep 2026](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jul-sep-2026/)
- [Apr-Jun 2026](https://anmj.org.au/publications/apr-jun-2026/)
- [Jan-Mar 2026](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jan-mar-2026/)
- [Oct-Dec 2025](https://anmj.org.au/publications/oct-dec-2025/)
- [Jul-Sep 2025](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jul-sep-2025/)
- [Apr-Jun 2025](https://anmj.org.au/publications/apr-jun-2025/)
- [Jan-Mar 2025](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jan-mar-2025/)
- [Oct-Dec 2024](https://anmj.org.au/publications/oct-dec-2024/)
- [Jan-Mar 2023](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jan-mar-2023-anmj/)
- [Jul-Sep 2024](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jul-sep-2024/)
- [Apr-Jun 2024](https://anmj.org.au/publications/28287/)
- [September 2017](https://anmj.org.au/publications/september-2017-anmj/)
- [Dec-Jan 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/dec-jan-2018-anmj/)
- [April 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/april-2018-anmj/)
- [August 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/apr-jul-2021-anmj/)
- [October 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/october-2018-anmj/)
- [January 2019](https://anmj.org.au/publications/january-2019-anmj/)
- [Apr-Jun 2019](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jan-mar-2019-anmj/)
- [Jul-Sep 2019](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jul-sep-2019-anmj/)
- [Oct-Dec 2019](https://anmj.org.au/publications/oct-dec-2019-anmj/)
- [Jan-Mar 2019](https://anmj.org.au/publications/apr-june-2019-anmj/)
- [Apr-Jun 2020](https://anmj.org.au/publications/apr-june-2020-anmj/)
- [Jul-Sep 2020](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jul-sep-2020-anmj/)
- [Oct-Dec 2020](https://anmj.org.au/publications/oct-dec-2020-anmj/)
- [Jan-Mar 2021](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jan-mar-2021-anmj/)
- [Apr-Jun 2021](https://anmj.org.au/publications/apr-jun-2021-anmj/)
- [Jul-Sep 2021](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jul-sep-2021-anmj/)
- [Oct-Dec 2021](https://anmj.org.au/publications/oct-dec-2021-anmj/)
- [Jan-Mar 2022](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jan-mar-2022-anmj/)
- [Jul-Sep 2022](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jul-sep-2022-anmj/)
- [Jan-Mar 2024](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jan-mar-2024-anmj/)
- [Apr-Jun 2022](https://anmj.org.au/publications/apr-jun-2022-anmj/)
- [Oct-Dec 2022](https://anmj.org.au/publications/oct-dec-2022-anmj/)
- [Apr-Jun 2023](https://anmj.org.au/publications/apr-jun-2023-anmj/)
- [Jul-Sep 2023](https://anmj.org.au/publications/jul-sep-2023-anmj/)
- [Oct-Dec 2023](https://anmj.org.au/publications/oct-dec-2023-anmj/)
- [August 2017](https://anmj.org.au/publications/august-2017-anmj/)
- [October 2017](https://anmj.org.au/publications/october-2017-anmj/)
- [November 2017](https://anmj.org.au/publications/november-2017-anmj/)
- [February 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/february-2018-anmj/)
- [March 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/march-2018-anmj/)
- [May 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/may-2018-anmj/)
- [June 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/june-2018-anmj/)
- [July 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/july-2018-anmj/)
- [September 2018](https://anmj.org.au/publications/september-2018-anmj/)

## Resources

- [Commonwealth Prac Payment - FAQs for Nursing and Midwifery Students](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/commonwealth-prac-payment-faqs-for-nursing-and-midwifery-students/) - In its 2024-25 Budget, the Australian Government committed $427.4 million over four years toestablish the Commonwealth Prac Payment to support higher education and VET studentswhile undertaking mandatory placements. From 1 July, eligible domestic students will be ableto access $331.65 per week.
- [Primary Health Care Workforce Campaign Stakeholder Kit](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/primary-health-care-workforce-campaign-stakeholder-kit/) - The stakeholder kit includes a range of resources to help promote the benefits and incentives of working in primary health care. The kit is designed to be flexible and ready for use across your own channels.
- [Getting to know nurse and midwife Katy - A celebration of midwives with 'Five of My Life' Nigel Marsh](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/getting-to-know-nurse-and-midwife-katy-a-celebration-of-midwives-with-five-of-my-life-nigel-marsh/) - Meet nurse and midwife Katy as she talks about her life and career with podcaster Nigel Marsh for 'Five of My Life'.
- [Getting to know Midwife Felicity - A celebration of midwives with 'Five of My Life' Nigel Marsh](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/getting-to-know-midwife-felicity-a-celebration-of-midwives-with-five-of-my-life-nigel-marsh/) - Meet midwife Felicity as she talks about her life and career with podcaster Nigel Marsh for 'Five of My Life'.
- [Balancing Acts: Strategies for managing shiftwork for nurses, midwives and carers](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/10-tips-for-improving-your-nursing-skills/) - A selection of ANMJ articles on managing shift work including sleep and diet
- [Getting to know Midwife Stephanie - A celebration of midwives with 'Five of My Life' Nigel Marsh](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/getting-to-know-midwife-stephanie-a-celebration-of-midwives-with-five-of-my-life-nigel-marsh/) - Meet midwife Stephanie Crawford as she talks about her life and career with podcaster Nigel Marsh for 'Five of My Life'.
- [Getting to know Nurse Lauren - A celebration of nurses with 'Five of My Life' Nigel Marsh](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/getting-to-know-nurse-lauren-a-celebration-of-nurses-with-five-of-my-life-nigel-marsh/) - Meet nurse Lauren Defazio as she talks about her life and career with podcaster Nigel Marsh for 'Five of My Life'.
- [Getting to know Enrolled Nurse Deb - A celebration of nurses with 'Five of My Life' Nigel Marsh](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/getting-to-know-enrolled-nurse-deb-a-celebration-of-nurses-with-five-of-my-life-nigel-marsh/) - Meet Enrolled Nurse Deb Butler as she talks about her life and career with podcaster Nigel Marsh for 'Five of My Life'.
- [Getting to know April - A celebration of midwives with 'Five of My Life' Nigel Marsh](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/getting-to-know-april-a-celebration-of-midwives-with-five-of-my-life-nigel-marshg/) - Meet midwife and Maternity Unit Director, April Jardine, as she talks about her life and career with podcaster Nigel Marsh for 'Five of My Life'.
- [Charting your path: Discovering the best career path for you](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/careers-booklet/) - Discovering different career pathways in nursing and midwifery and which ones work best for you
- [Making the most out of undergraduate study](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/nursing-booklet/) - Insights on how to get the most out of being a student, including clinical placements
- [Launching your nursing career - Essential tips for early success](https://anmj.org.au/resource-library/thriving-in-midwifery-and-nursing/) - Tips on how to seamlessly transition from student to early career nurse or midwife

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://anmj.org.au/category/uncategorized/)
- [Career & Practice](https://anmj.org.au/category/career-practice/)
- [Interviews](https://anmj.org.au/category/interviews/)
- [Wellbeing](https://anmj.org.au/category/wellbeing/)
- [Research](https://anmj.org.au/category/research-innovation/)
- [Justice & Action](https://anmj.org.au/category/justice-action/)
- [Grads & Students](https://anmj.org.au/category/grads-students/)
- [News](https://anmj.org.au/category/latest-news/)
- [Digital Health](https://anmj.org.au/category/digital-health/)
- [Career Role Models](https://anmj.org.au/category/career-role-models/)
- [Editor's Pick](https://anmj.org.au/category/editors-pick/)
- [Sponsored Post](https://anmj.org.au/category/sponsored-post/)

## Tags

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- [Nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nurses-and-midwives/)
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- [Carers](https://anmj.org.au/tag/carers/)
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- [Birthing on Country](https://anmj.org.au/tag/birthing-on-country/)
- [Infant Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/infant-health/)
- [Maternal Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maternal-health/)
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- [Aged care; ANMF; Action; Campaign](https://anmj.org.au/tag/aged-care-anmf-action-campaign/)
- [Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander](https://anmj.org.au/tag/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander/)
- [Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people](https://anmj.org.au/tag/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-people/)
- [Gender Diverse Community](https://anmj.org.au/tag/gender-diverse-community/)
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- [Culture](https://anmj.org.au/tag/culture/)
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- [Patient satisfaction and management](https://anmj.org.au/tag/patient-satisfaction-and-management/)
- [Learning and career](https://anmj.org.au/tag/learning-and-career/)
- [Advanced Practice Nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/advanced-practice-nurses/)
- [Primary and Community care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/primary-and-community-care/)
- [Aged care; All nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/tag/aged-care-all-nurses-and-midwives/)
- [Maternal and Midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maternal-and-midwifery/)
- [Wellbeing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/wellbeing/)
- [Aged Care Royal Commission](https://anmj.org.au/tag/aged-care-royal-commission/)
- [Action; Campaign](https://anmj.org.au/tag/action-campaign/)
- [Action; All nurses and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/tag/action-all-nurses-and-midwives/)
- [Unions](https://anmj.org.au/tag/unions/)
- [Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/health/)
- [Research academic/Researcher](https://anmj.org.au/tag/research-academic-researcher/)
- [palliate care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/palliate-care/)
- [Workforce](https://anmj.org.au/tag/workforce/)
- [Community/Primary care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/community-primary-care/)
- [School nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/school-nurses/)
- [Career; Nursing Stories; Maternal/midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/tag/career-nursing-stories-maternal-midwifery/)
- [Perioperative nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/perioperative-nurses/)
- [Aged Care Campaign](https://anmj.org.au/tag/aged-care-campaign/)
- [Alll nurses & midwives](https://anmj.org.au/tag/alll-nurses-midwives/)
- [Carer](https://anmj.org.au/tag/carer/)
- [Health management of nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/health-management-of-nurses/)
- [Maternal and Child Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maternal-and-child-health/)
- [Dementia](https://anmj.org.au/tag/dementia/)
- [All Nurses & Midwvies](https://anmj.org.au/tag/all-nurses-midwvies/)
- [Studens](https://anmj.org.au/tag/studens/)
- [Graduates](https://anmj.org.au/tag/graduates/)
- [Nurses and Midwives Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nurses-and-midwives-health/)
- [pre and post op](https://anmj.org.au/tag/pre-and-post-op/)
- [inovation](https://anmj.org.au/tag/inovation/)
- [Communication](https://anmj.org.au/tag/communication/)
- [Health Management](https://anmj.org.au/tag/health-management/)
- [carer and education](https://anmj.org.au/tag/carer-and-education/)
- [Education Career](https://anmj.org.au/tag/education-career/)
- [Literature review](https://anmj.org.au/tag/literature-review/)
- [Justice](https://anmj.org.au/tag/justice/)
- [Ethics](https://anmj.org.au/tag/ethics/)
- [Career Education](https://anmj.org.au/tag/career-education/)
- [Career Graduates Education](https://anmj.org.au/tag/career-graduates-education/)
- [Exercise](https://anmj.org.au/tag/exercise/)
- [Registered nurse](https://anmj.org.au/tag/registered-nurse/)
- [Early career](https://anmj.org.au/tag/early-career/)
- [nursing and Midwifery management](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nursing-and-midwifery-management/)
- [Primary healthcare/community](https://anmj.org.au/tag/primary-healthcare-community/)
- [University](https://anmj.org.au/tag/university/)
- [Maternal child health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maternal-child-health/)
- [Students; Midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/tag/students-midwifery/)
- [Grads](https://anmj.org.au/tag/grads/)
- [Diabetes](https://anmj.org.au/tag/diabetes/)
- [Digital health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/digital-health/)
- [Policy](https://anmj.org.au/tag/policy/)
- [Blood borne viruses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/blood-borne-viruses/)
- [COVID](https://anmj.org.au/tag/covid/)
- [Nursing Now Campaign](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nursing-now-campaign/)
- [Clinical placement](https://anmj.org.au/tag/clinical-placement/)
- [Midwife](https://anmj.org.au/tag/midwife/)
- [Hydration](https://anmj.org.au/tag/hydration/)
- [Emergency nursing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/emergency-nursing/)
- [Career development](https://anmj.org.au/tag/career-development/)
- [RNs](https://anmj.org.au/tag/rns/)
- [Health and wellbeing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/health-and-wellbeing/)
- [Women’s health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/womens-health/)
- [patient outcomes](https://anmj.org.au/tag/patient-outcomes/)
- [Development](https://anmj.org.au/tag/development/)
- [Justice and Action](https://anmj.org.au/tag/justice-and-action/)
- [Violence](https://anmj.org.au/tag/violence/)
- [Covid-19 vaccine](https://anmj.org.au/tag/covid-19-vaccine/)
- [Midwives; Midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/tag/midwives-midwifery/)
- [Acute care; palliative care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/acute-care-palliative-care/)
- [Primary health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/primary-health/)
- [Primary healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/tag/primary-healthcare/)
- [Asthma](https://anmj.org.au/tag/asthma/)
- [Burnout](https://anmj.org.au/tag/burnout/)
- [Reflection](https://anmj.org.au/tag/reflection/)
- [Acute and primary care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/acute-and-primary-care/)
- [All Nurses and midwives; Climate Change](https://anmj.org.au/tag/all-nurses-and-midwives-climate-change/)
- [Sexual Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/sexual-health/)
- [Racism](https://anmj.org.au/tag/racism/)
- [Nurses and Midwives; COVID-19](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nurses-and-midwives-covid-19/)
- [Breast cancer](https://anmj.org.au/tag/breast-cancer/)
- [Anti Poverty](https://anmj.org.au/tag/anti-poverty/)
- [Remote](https://anmj.org.au/tag/remote/)
- [Homelessness](https://anmj.org.au/tag/homelessness/)
- [Acute/hospital care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/acute-hospital-care/)
- [Nurse researchers](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nurse-researchers/)
- [Primary Career](https://anmj.org.au/tag/primary-career/)
- [Clinical skills](https://anmj.org.au/tag/clinical-skills/)
- [Compassion](https://anmj.org.au/tag/compassion/)
- [Emergency](https://anmj.org.au/tag/emergency/)
- [Patient Management and Satisfaction](https://anmj.org.au/tag/patient-management-and-satisfaction/)
- [Medicines](https://anmj.org.au/tag/medicines/)
- [Family and domestic violence](https://anmj.org.au/tag/family-and-domestic-violence/)
- [Medication](https://anmj.org.au/tag/medication/)
- [Omicron](https://anmj.org.au/tag/omicron/)
- [Acute Care; COVID-19](https://anmj.org.au/tag/acute-care-covid-19/)
- [My Health Record](https://anmj.org.au/tag/my-health-record/)
- [Covid19](https://anmj.org.au/tag/covid19/)
- [Skill development](https://anmj.org.au/tag/skill-development/)
- [ICU](https://anmj.org.au/tag/icu/)
- [Theatre](https://anmj.org.au/tag/theatre/)
- [Environment](https://anmj.org.au/tag/environment/)
- [Grads and students](https://anmj.org.au/tag/grads-and-students/)
- [Careers](https://anmj.org.au/tag/careers/)
- [End of life care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/end-of-life-care/)
- [Neonatal](https://anmj.org.au/tag/neonatal/)
- [Paediatric](https://anmj.org.au/tag/paediatric/)
- [Advance care plan](https://anmj.org.au/tag/advance-care-plan/)
- [All nurse and midwives](https://anmj.org.au/tag/all-nurse-and-midwives/)
- [Maternity/Midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maternity-midwifery/)
- [Healthcare policy](https://anmj.org.au/tag/healthcare-policy/)
- [Nightshift](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nightshift/)
- [Patient wellbeing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/patient-wellbeing/)
- [Domestic Violence](https://anmj.org.au/tag/domestic-violence/)
- [Tai Chi](https://anmj.org.au/tag/tai-chi/)
- [Maggie Beer](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maggie-beer/)
- [Health and safety](https://anmj.org.au/tag/health-and-safety/)
- [Remote Area Nursing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/remote-area-nursing/)
- [Aboriginal and Torres strait Island](https://anmj.org.au/tag/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-island/)
- [Maternity](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maternity/)
- [Diet](https://anmj.org.au/tag/diet/)
- [Infection](https://anmj.org.au/tag/infection/)
- [All nurses and midwives; Campaign](https://anmj.org.au/tag/all-nurses-and-midwives-campaign/)
- [Workforce shortage](https://anmj.org.au/tag/workforce-shortage/)
- [Telehealth](https://anmj.org.au/tag/telehealth/)
- [Remote Area Nurse](https://anmj.org.au/tag/remote-area-nurse/)
- [Recruitment](https://anmj.org.au/tag/recruitment/)
- [Enrolled Nurse](https://anmj.org.au/tag/enrolled-nurse/)
- [Assisted dying](https://anmj.org.au/tag/assisted-dying/)
- [Medicare](https://anmj.org.au/tag/medicare/)
- [Student nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/student-nurses/)
- [Milk formula](https://anmj.org.au/tag/milk-formula/)
- [Graduates and early career nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/graduates-and-early-career-nurses/)
- [Medicinal cannabis](https://anmj.org.au/tag/medicinal-cannabis/)
- [Human milk](https://anmj.org.au/tag/human-milk/)
- [Regulation](https://anmj.org.au/tag/regulation/)
- [Nurse shortage](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nurse-shortage/)
- [Gender pay gap](https://anmj.org.au/tag/gender-pay-gap/)
- [Nursing specialties](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nursing-specialties/)
- [Remote Area Nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/remote-area-nurses/)
- [Nursing workforce](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nursing-workforce/)
- [Anzac Day](https://anmj.org.au/tag/anzac-day/)
- [Vivian Bullwinkel](https://anmj.org.au/tag/vivian-bullwinkel/)
- [Advanced Practice Nurse](https://anmj.org.au/tag/advanced-practice-nurse/)
- [Ratios](https://anmj.org.au/tag/ratios/)
- [Budget](https://anmj.org.au/tag/budget/)
- [All nurses and midwives; Sustainability](https://anmj.org.au/tag/all-nurses-and-midwives-sustainability/)
- [All nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/all-nurses/)
- [Student nurses and graduates](https://anmj.org.au/tag/student-nurses-and-graduates/)
- [Social justice & action](https://anmj.org.au/tag/social-justice-action/)
- [Primary care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/primary-care/)
- [Gender equity](https://anmj.org.au/tag/gender-equity/)
- [Respect@Work](https://anmj.org.au/tag/respectwork/)
- [Refugee Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/refugee-health/)
- [Gender equality](https://anmj.org.au/tag/gender-equality/)
- [Academic/Research](https://anmj.org.au/tag/academic-research/)
- [Maternal/child](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maternal-child/)
- [Wounds](https://anmj.org.au/tag/wounds/)
- [Whistleblowing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/whistleblowing/)
- [Artificial Intelligence](https://anmj.org.au/tag/artificial-intelligence/)
- [Work Health and Safety](https://anmj.org.au/tag/work-health-and-safety/)
- [Elder abuse](https://anmj.org.au/tag/elder-abuse/)
- [Diet and Exercise](https://anmj.org.au/tag/diet-and-exercise/)
- [Digital](https://anmj.org.au/tag/digital/)
- [Shiftwork](https://anmj.org.au/tag/shiftwork/)
- [Finance](https://anmj.org.au/tag/finance/)
- [Health & Wellbeing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/health-wellbeing/)
- [Activism](https://anmj.org.au/tag/activism/)
- [Nursing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nursing/)
- [stress management](https://anmj.org.au/tag/stress-management/)
- [Nutrition](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nutrition/)
- [Industrial](https://anmj.org.au/tag/industrial/)
- [wound management](https://anmj.org.au/tag/wound-management/)
- [Union](https://anmj.org.au/tag/union/)
- [Student and graduate](https://anmj.org.au/tag/student-and-graduate/)
- [chronic pain](https://anmj.org.au/tag/chronic-pain/)
- [Graduates and Students](https://anmj.org.au/tag/graduates-and-students/)
- [Cancer nursing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/cancer-nursing/)
- [Childcare](https://anmj.org.au/tag/childcare/)
- [Cancer](https://anmj.org.au/tag/cancer/)
- [AINs](https://anmj.org.au/tag/ains/)
- [Cosmetic industry](https://anmj.org.au/tag/cosmetic-industry/)
- [Sleep](https://anmj.org.au/tag/sleep/)
- [Pay and conditions](https://anmj.org.au/tag/pay-and-conditions/)
- [Labour law](https://anmj.org.au/tag/labour-law/)
- [Gender inequality](https://anmj.org.au/tag/gender-inequality/)
- [Placement poverty](https://anmj.org.au/tag/placement-poverty/)
- [Virtual reality](https://anmj.org.au/tag/virtual-reality/)
- [Global health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/global-health/)
- [Breast Cancer Nurse](https://anmj.org.au/tag/breast-cancer-nurse/)
- [Multiple Sclerosis](https://anmj.org.au/tag/multiple-sclerosis/)
- [Diet & lifestyle](https://anmj.org.au/tag/diet-lifestyle/)
- [Voluntary Assisted Dying](https://anmj.org.au/tag/voluntary-assisted-dying/)
- [Grads & Students](https://anmj.org.au/tag/grads-students/)
- [antibiotic resistance](https://anmj.org.au/tag/antibiotic-resistance/)
- [Infant nutrition](https://anmj.org.au/tag/infant-nutrition/)
- [AI](https://anmj.org.au/tag/ai/)
- [Staffing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/staffing/)
- [Advanced Practice](https://anmj.org.au/tag/advanced-practice/)
- [Nurse Midwife HPA](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nurse-midwife-hpa/)
- [LGBTIQA](https://anmj.org.au/tag/lgbtiqa/)
- [Private healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/tag/private-healthcare/)
- [Access](https://anmj.org.au/tag/access/)
- [Cost-of-living](https://anmj.org.au/tag/cost-of-living/)
- [Paid Parental Leave](https://anmj.org.au/tag/paid-parental-leave/)
- [Federal Election](https://anmj.org.au/tag/federal-election/)
- [Reconciliation](https://anmj.org.au/tag/reconciliation/)
- [Truth-telling](https://anmj.org.au/tag/truth-telling/)
- [Webinar](https://anmj.org.au/tag/webinar/)
- [Gaza; Humanitarian aid;](https://anmj.org.au/tag/gaza-humanitarian-aid/)
- [Peace](https://anmj.org.au/tag/peace/)
- [International Council of Nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/international-council-of-nurses/)
- [Maternal care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/maternal-care/)
- [Podcast](https://anmj.org.au/tag/podcast/)
- [NAIDOC Week](https://anmj.org.au/tag/naidoc-week/)
- [First Nations](https://anmj.org.au/tag/first-nations/)
- [Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-health/)
- [Respiratory nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/respiratory-nurses/)
- [Gaza](https://anmj.org.au/tag/gaza/)
- [Nurses and Midwives for Peace](https://anmj.org.au/tag/nurses-and-midwives-for-peace/)
- [Pay and conditions; Industrial](https://anmj.org.au/tag/pay-and-conditions-industrial/)
- [Antimicrobial resistance](https://anmj.org.au/tag/antimicrobial-resistance/)
- [Ahpra](https://anmj.org.au/tag/ahpra/)
- [Stewardship](https://anmj.org.au/tag/stewardship/)
- [Medication safety](https://anmj.org.au/tag/medication-safety/)
- [Guidelines](https://anmj.org.au/tag/guidelines/)
- [Neurological nursing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/neurological-nursing/)
- [self-care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/self-care/)
- [Personal care workers](https://anmj.org.au/tag/personal-care-workers/)
- [Travel](https://anmj.org.au/tag/travel/)
- [Men's Health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/mens-health/)
- [Hospice care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/hospice-care/)
- [Scope of practice](https://anmj.org.au/tag/scope-of-practice/)
- [Migrant](https://anmj.org.au/tag/migrant/)
- [Refugee](https://anmj.org.au/tag/refugee/)
- [Culturally safe](https://anmj.org.au/tag/culturally-safe/)
- [Healthcare](https://anmj.org.au/tag/healthcare/)
- [Prescribing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/prescribing/)
- [Heatwaves](https://anmj.org.au/tag/heatwaves/)
- [RN prescribing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/rn-prescribing/)
- [Occupational violence](https://anmj.org.au/tag/occupational-violence/)
- [Cost of living](https://anmj.org.au/tag/cost-of-living-2/)
- [Registration](https://anmj.org.au/tag/registration/)
- [Older persons](https://anmj.org.au/tag/older-persons/)
- [HESTA](https://anmj.org.au/tag/hesta/)
- [Awards](https://anmj.org.au/tag/awards/)
- [Army Nursing](https://anmj.org.au/tag/army-nursing/)
- [War nurses](https://anmj.org.au/tag/war-nurses/)
- [Commemoration](https://anmj.org.au/tag/commemoration/)
- [Hantavirus](https://anmj.org.au/tag/hantavirus/)
- [World Environment Day](https://anmj.org.au/tag/world-environment-day/)
- [South Pacific Nurses Forum](https://anmj.org.au/tag/south-pacific-nurses-forum/)
- [Injectable drugs](https://anmj.org.au/tag/injectable-drugs/)
- [Work Value Case](https://anmj.org.au/tag/work-value-case/)
- [Child and maternal health](https://anmj.org.au/tag/child-and-maternal-health/)
- [Virtual care](https://anmj.org.au/tag/virtual-care/)

## Type Of Resources

- [Publication](https://anmj.org.au/resource-type/publication/)
- [Podcast](https://anmj.org.au/resource-type/podcast/)

## Topics

- [Careers](https://anmj.org.au/resource-topic/careers/)
- [Wellness](https://anmj.org.au/resource-topic/wellness/)
- [Nursing](https://anmj.org.au/resource-topic/nursing/)
- [Midwifery](https://anmj.org.au/resource-topic/midwifery/)

## Featured

- [Home page](https://anmj.org.au/featured/home/)
- [Category page](https://anmj.org.au/featured/category-page/)

## Sponsored

- [Yes - Show on Category page](https://anmj.org.au/sponsored/yes-this-is-sponsored/)