The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation Tasmanian Branch would like to extend our thoughts to all our members and communities affected by the bushfires in Tasmania. Our thoughts also go out to all other fire-ravaged areas across our nation, particularly those where there has been loss of life, homes and property.

If members have been directly affected by the fires and you are unable to attend work, you may be entitled to special leave from your employer. If you did not attend work and were not paid, please contact ANMF Member Support so we can provide you with specific advice relevant to your work site.

ANMF understands this is a traumatic time for all those directly affected, the wider community, and those involved in providing support and care to those affected. For any nurse or midwife who needs support and counseling, Nurses Midwives Support can be contacted by any nurse, midwife or nursing or midwifery student for free and confidential support 24/7, Australia-wide on 1800 667 877.

For members wishing to help, Australian Red Cross is supporting communities affected by the fires, with specialist emergency volunteers providing psychological first aid, working at evacuation centres and helping people to get in touch with their loved ones. Donations can be made through the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery at www.redcross.org.au

In Tasmania members can make donations in person at any Bendigo Bank or donate online at bendigobank.com.au

The ANMF Tasmanian Branch Executive will soon be meeting to explore other avenues to support our members and colleagues throughout Australia during (and beyond) this catastrophic event.

In unity, the ANMF Tasmanian Branch Team.

Updates correct as at 9 January 2020
Authorised by Emily Shepherd, ANMF Tasmanian Branch Secretary