WA Nurses and Midwives are struggling in todays financial market. We have the lowest base pay in the whole of the country. To survive many nurses and midwives are pulling double shifts and over time. This is leading to huge amounts of us burning out fast.

We are asking for a pay rate that reflects the time and energy we have put in into our careers. 3 to 3.5 years at uni as undergrads, doing unpaid placements. Many of us then going on to do postgrads, certificates, diplomas, Masters and PHD's. We are smart people who work hard and tirelessly. 

We are asking to be taken seriously. The Government and even our own union, the ANF, have over the years walked all over us and we have let them do that. We often do not want to make a fuss, because as nurses and midwives we are carers, givers and empathetic to everyone but ourselves.  

But we are tired. We will no longer let ourselves be ignored. Every day we struggle. Short staffed. Abused. Run ragged. We call on the West Australian Government and the ANF to treat us with respect. We reject the dismal offer put on the table by the Government (Money that we cannot even really touch) and the ANF. We call for a vote of no confidence in the ANF and how it is being run and dealing with our EBA.

We ask for beds to be shut when there is no staffing. We ask for ratios that will protect us from making mistakes. We ask for a pay rise of 10-15% over the next 2 years that reflects not only the financial climate but also our hard work.

If you and your family want to have the best care whilst you are in hospital, then please plead with the Government on our behalf. We cannot look after you properly without proper staffing. With staff who are continuously tired because to make ends meet they are working unsafe hours. 

Please hear us.