NSW nurses' union to consider ‘interim' pay deal from Labor government
The nurses union launched industrial action in July 2024 over pleas for a 15 per cent pay rise and improved working conditions at state-run hospitals across the state.
On Tuesday, the NSWNMA received an interim offer from the government, which will be put to its members for a vote following their annual conference on Friday.
The deal includes a night-duty penalty rate increase to 20 per cent – reaching parity with Queensland – along with no night duty before annual leave and two consecutive days off.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said discussions were 'going well' and that the government had accepted a number of requested 'work-life balance' changes.
'These are things that make a real difference in terms of the pressure nurses are under and in terms of the stress and strain of that job,' he said.
'I do want to emphasise this hasn't been decided on by the membership yet. We've got to respect that process (and) we were working through it.
'We will continue to have those negotiations and discussions, but it's certainly a positive step forward.'
Premier Chris Minns said there had been 'good progress' on talks with the nurses union.
'We're not doing a lap of honour,' he said.
'We recognise this is in the hands of the membership of the nurses association and in front of the Industrial Relations Commission.
'They'll ultimately make a decision, but what I can say is both sides are putting down their weapons, getting around the negotiating table and hopeful of an outcome.'
In a statement, NSWNMA said the interim offer did not replace the need for the Special Case, which is an application for a 35 per cent pay rise over three years.
Neither does it 'impact our pathway to an additional pay rise through the Industrial Relations Commission'.
The powerful workplace commission last year recommended NSW Health pay nurses a 3 per cent wage increase, which was accepted by the NSWNMA.
The interim deal would also require consultation before any roster changes are made.
Mr Park said the deal was important to delivering the 3 per cent pay 'boost' as a case before the Industrial Relations Commission progressed.
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