Nurses and midwives make significant contributions to our communities, and it’s vital that we help and support them to maintain their health in a way that suits them.
In the October 2022-23 Federal Budget, it was announced that the Australian Government will invest $25.2 million to establish and deliver a National Nurse and Midwife Health Service (NNMHS). Through counselling and support services, this new national support service will assist Australia's nurses and midwives, including students, in managing their health and wellness.
Through counselling and support services, this new national support service will assist Australia's nurses and midwives, including students, in managing their health and wellness. This support aims to reduce the rates of exhaustion, stress, and burnout - all of which have risen since the pandemic.
Confidential counselling and support
Nurses and midwives will have access to confidential counselling and support services to help them deal with the stress and emotional demands of their work.
Nurses and midwives will be able to connect with other nurses and midwives through peer support networks to share experiences, offer advice and provide emotional support.
Nurses and midwives will have access to professional development opportunities, including training and education, to help them build the skills and knowledge they need to provide safe and high-quality care.
The service will promote the importance of self-care and healthy living for nurses and midwives, to help them maintain their physical and mental well-being.
The government believes that the National Nurse and Midwife Health Service will help to improve the well-being and resilience of nurses and midwives, reduce the risk of burnout, and promote the retention of nurses and midwives in the workforce.
This is an announced plan and further details of the implementation and specifics of the program are not yet available.
