Voices of the ANMF: 356,000 voices. One union.
Through collective action, nurses, midwives and carers advocate for better conditions and stronger healthcare — not just for themselves, but for the communities they serve.
ANMF: a century of determination and transformation
The ANMF’s story is one of purpose and passion, people and power. It’s a story of fighting for workers and their rights, and of protecting and promoting our members, our professions, and our communities. From striving for fair wages and better working conditions to promoting safer healthcare practices and improved patient care, the ANMF has been a catalyst for positive change.
Our voices. Our power. Our union.
Nurses – Why I work where I do
Our nurses describe their chosen area of work.
Midwives – Why I became a midwife
Our midwives share their stories in supporting women and families.
Our members: our voices
Nkem
ACT | Mental Health RN
“I work in adult mental health crisis response, supporting people at their most vulnerable. In moments of crisis, you hold hope — walking alongside someone and reminding them they’re not alone. Being part of the union gives nurses a voice, and I use mine, because it’s a space that supports us to speak up and be heard.”
Sam
QLD | Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
“Nurse practitioners are uniquely placed to champion our patients, provide exceptional nursing care, and meet their complex needs right through to the end of life. While important changes have been legislated, making them a reality on the floor is the challenge. That’s why the ANMF’s role at the federal table is vital—to push for the support needed to turn policy into practice.”
Mary
Melbourne, VIC | Community RN
“I’m a long term ANMF member with a strong commitment to human rights and social justice. I stand in solidarity with colleagues in conflict zones such as Gaza. We are witnessing the devastating impact of war on healthcare systems and the targeted killing of healthcare workers. As the most trusted and largest health workforce in Australia, our responsibility extends beyond our borders to protect healthcare workers everywhere.”
Paul
NSW | Emergency Nurse and Paramedic
“I love the critical thinking and the fact that every day is different. You never know what you’re going to see – and you’ve never seen it all. You’re always learning. I became involved in unionism to drive positive change. I’ve seen firsthand how strong industrial action can translate into real outcomes on the floor.”
Antoinette
VIC | Enrolled Nurse
“I was in my 30s when I became a nurse. After seeing an advertisement on television, I knew it was what I wanted to do and I’ve never looked back. I love it— the empowerment. Nursing is about helping people take back their lives and supporting them to become their full selves again, so they can reach their full potential.”
Michelle
Townsville, Queensland | Personal Care Worker
“I’ve worked in aged care for 25 years. It’s a specialised job — not everyone can do it, and not everyone should. Supporting and respecting staff makes a huge difference. Care minutes need to be increased. Of the 200 minutes, 40 are for registered nurses, leaving 160 for carers. There needs to be far more accountability. If decision makers don’t know what’s really happening, nothing will change.”