Nurses Pay Under Review
A major case currently before the Fair Work Commission (FWC) could lead to significant increases to the minimum pay rates under the Nurses Award – potentially impacting wages in private medical practices.
The Australian Nursing & Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is seeking an average 35.8% pay increase for nurses, midwives and other nursing staff covered by the Award. The union argues that pay rates have been historically undervalued due to gender-based assumptions and no longer reflect the modern skill and responsibility levels of the profession.
This case is part of a broader review of nurses’ pay being carried out by the FWC. Last year, the Commission increased pay rates for nurses working in aged care, after finding their wages did not properly reflect the level of skill, responsibility and value of their work. The current focus is now on nurses working outside of aged care to determine whether similar changes should be made across the rest of the profession.
Where things are up to
- A conciliation conference was held on 7 July to narrow the issues and attempt to avoid a lengthy hearing.Â
- Talks between the ANMF and employer groups are ongoing but unresolved.Â
- Discussion remains ongoing in relation to:Â
- How any increases would be phased inÂ
- The ability of private sector employers to afford increasesÂ
- Updates to classification structures and pay point progressionÂ
If an agreement can’t be reached, the case will likely move to a formal hearing.
What this means for your practice
If the ANMF’s claim is successful, it could result in further and additional pay increases across the sector. While nothing has been agreed or confirmed, now is a good time to ensure you are paying correctly in accordance with the current minimum Award rates.
If you are already paying above the minimum Award rate, your current pay arrangements may be sufficient to absorb any future increase — depending on how much above the Award you are paying, and how any new rates align with the relevant classification level and pay point. Pay arrangements should be reviewed and adjusted as needed once the case has been decided and any changes to Award rates are confirmed.
HR in Health will continue monitoring the situation and will keep members informed as things develop. Don’t forget – HR in Health members have access to a wide range of templates, tools and resources to help you manage your HR obligations with confidence.