We now look forward to working with the government to fulfill its election commitments to nurses, midwives, and the broader health and aged care sectors — commitments that recognise the essential role of our workforce in delivering safe, high-quality care and driving real reform.

Throughout the election campaign, the ANMF was proud to take a clear and political stand- not on behalf of any one party, but on behalf of our members.

We assessed and shared where each party stood on maintaining gains made in healthcare and where they stood on current issues that matter to nurses and midwives. We unveiled which parties were prepared to deliver for our professions and for the future of healthcare in this country.

That work allowed you- our members- to make an informed choice at the ballot box. Elections matter. Being political matters- because the decisions made by governments shape the conditions in which we work, live, and care.

Our members know that voting is a powerful act, and the ANMF will continue to advocate for the policies that support safe staffing, fair pay, secure jobs, and a health system that puts people first.

With the government now returned, the hard work begins. The ANMF stands ready to work constructively with Ministers and decision-makers to implement the reforms that were promised reforms such as funding a state-run, nationally consistent RUSON/RUSOM program, developing a single national employment check for nurses and midwives (in collaboration with states and territories), acting on recommendations from the scope of practice review, appointing a Commonwealth Chief Midwife and funding the development and implementation of a National Midwifery Strategy.

While we remain focused on achieving these improvements at home, we cannot ignore the escalating humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.

Nurses, midwives and other health professionals there are delivering care under unthinkable conditions — in bombed-out hospitals, without clean water, electricity, medical supplies or personal safety.

In addition, the people of Gaza are suffering mass starvation with very little aid being allowed through in the region.

In response, the ANMF has published a statement on behalf of our members condemning the attacks on healthcare and calling for an immediate and lasting ceasefire.

We continue to demand the protection of all civilians and health workers, and urgent access to humanitarian aid. We extend our call not only for Gaza, but all countries severely impacted by war such as Ukraine, Afghanistan and many others.

Our statement is only the beginning. Over the coming weeks, we will be coordinating further activities that members can join to show solidarity and provide support. We know that our members want to act to show support to their overseas colleagues and we are committed to creating those opportunities for meaningful engagement.

Nurses and midwives are united by a commitment to care, dignity and justice- values that must extend beyond our own borders.

As we look to the future with a renewed federal government and a mandate for reform we do so with a strong sense of responsibility: to hold our leaders to account, to improve our own health system, and to stand in solidarity with our colleagues around the world.

I encourage you to continue speaking out and taking collective action on the issues that matter. Together, we will lead the change our professions – and our world – so urgently need.

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