Celebrating Nurses and Midwives: Time for Real Investment in Our Essential Workforce
12 May 2025
On International Nurses Day, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) Tasmanian Branch is proud to celebrate the tireless dedication, skill, and compassion of nurses and midwives who care for our community every day.
ANMF Acting Branch Secretary Phoebe Mansell said this year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Care,” highlights what nurses have always known: quality healthcare doesn’t just save lives – it builds stronger, healthier communities and a more resilient economy and the backbone of health care is Nurses.
“Just one week ago, we also marked International Midwives Day on 5 May, recognising the critical role midwives play in supporting safe pregnancies, births, and early parenting across Tasmania,” Ms Mansell said.
“We thank them for their contribution to the sector and their support of families across the state.
“Our nurses and midwives have faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, and yet they continue to step up and provide world-class care with compassion and professionalism.
“We thank every nurse and midwife today – and every day – for the incredible work they do.”
Ms Mansell said that while today is a day of celebration, it’s also a time to call on the Tasmanian and Federal Governments to go beyond words and commit to meaningful investment in nurses and midwives.
This includes:
- Safe staffing levels in all healthcare settings,
- Senior nursing resources for junior nurses on each and every shift to foster a supportive environment for new practitioners,
- Fair pay and conditions that reflect their critical contributions,
- Support for education, professional development, and career advancement, and
- Long-term workforce planning to address burnout, retention, and recruitment.
“It’s not enough to simply say thank you—our nurses and midwives deserve to be heard, respected, and resourced,” Ms Mansell said.
“The time for action is now.
“On this International Nurses Day, let’s not only celebrate those who care for us, but also stand with them and demand a future where their work is valued and supported.”