The Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) welcomes the Albanese Government’s submission for an aged care pay rise that properly recognises this extremely valuable workforce.
QNMU Secretary Beth Mohle said the Albanese Government yesterday lodged a submission supporting an aged care pay rise in the Fair Work Commission (FWC).
Ms Mohle said the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), of which the QNMU is part, is one of the union applicants responsible for the aged care work-value case currently before the FWC.
The QNMU has called for a 25% rise in award wages to properly recognise the ongoing efforts of low paid aged care workers. The FWC will now determine whether a variation of the relevant modern award rates of pay is justified by the value of the work performed by the aged care workforce.
“Australian aged care nurses and Assistants in Nursing/Personal Carer Workers give their all to care for our elderly in often extremely challenging circumstances,” Ms Mohle said.
“Currently they earn far less than their colleagues in public and private hospitals. They also face immense daily challenges to provide care in the face of chronic understaffing. We believe this incredible workforce deserve and require a 25% pay rise.
“A 25% pay rise would also help retain and attract much needed staff to aged care.”
The QNMU has campaigned for change in aged care for decades – and again commends and applauds the efforts of Australia’s aged care workforce both during the pandemic and every day.
The QNMU also applauds the members who gave evidence to the FWC in support of a 25% wage increase. Ms Mohle said their stories were powerful and their voices have been heard.
The Federal Government’s submission can be viewed
here.
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