Victoria’s nurses and midwives are set to receive a 28.4 per cent pay rise over four years following an in-principle agreement between their union and the Allan government. This agreement comes after 48 days of protected industrial action. The new deal replaces previous cash payments with an overall wage increase.
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation, representing around 100,000 members in Victoria, announced the new agreement. Key features include allowances for ward changes, improved on-call allowances, better night shift penalties for permanent staff, and a significant increase of 92 per cent to the qualifications allowance by the end of the deal.
A notable addition to the agreement is a right to disconnect clause, ensuring nurses and midwives are not continuously contacted for shifts they are not seeking. The deal also promises better access to flexible work arrangements. Additionally, the qualifying period for parental leave will drop from six months to zero, and interstate public-sector nurses and midwives will have their service recognised for leave entitlements if they relocate to Victoria.
This agreement still requires endorsement by union members and approval by the state cabinet. Union members will convene on Wednesday in Melbourne and eight regional centres to vote on the deal.
Concerns were raised by union members about the certainty of wage increases, which hinge on a pending Fair Work Commission decision on pay rises for aged care nurses.
The Allan government expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating it aims to deliver “a fair deal to our hardworking nurses and midwives”.
This agreement follows a recent pay deal between the state’s police union and Victoria Police, which includes a nine-day fortnight for frontline officers and a 4 per cent annual wage increase over the next four years.
However, agreements with paramedics and Ambulance Victoria are still pending, as the government manages its significant debt alongside various pay demands. Firefighters, represented by the United Firefighters Union, continue to be in a prolonged pay dispute with Fire Rescue Victoria.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
