Nurses across New South Wales are being acknowledged on International Nurses Day for their ongoing care, clinical skill and support delivered to patients, families and communities every day of the year.
With more than 74,000 nurses working across NSW Health, they represent the largest workforce group in the system. Their roles span hospitals, outpatient services and community care settings, providing support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
This year’s theme, Empowered Nurses Save Lives, reflects the focus on strengthening nursing capability and recognising the role nurses play in responding to complex and ongoing health needs.
The NSW Government says it has invested in measures aimed at supporting recruitment, retention and working conditions for nurses across the state. This includes the rollout of Safe Staffing Levels in selected public hospital areas, with a commitment of 2,480 full-time equivalent staff over four years, alongside the removal of the wages cap and pay increases described as the largest for nurses in more than two decades. It also points to workforce expansion of more than 5,000 full-time equivalent nursing staff and study subsidies intended to support future health workers.
Nominations are also open for the 2026 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards, which aim to recognise individuals providing high levels of clinical care and patient support. The Healing Heart Award is among the categories available for public nominations, with submissions open until 12 June via the NSW Health website.
NSW Health’s Chief Nurse Jacqui Cross said the day provides an opportunity to recognise nurses’ contribution across a range of settings.
“International Nurses Day gives us a day when we can really focus on the contribution we have all made, and acknowledge that contribution as an individual, as a team, and in the services we support,” she said.
She said nurses work across hospitals, research, education, virtual care and community-based services, and that their impact is felt widely across the health system.
“As the Chief Nurse for NSW Health, I am immensely proud of the outstanding work nurses do each and every day,” she said.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said nurses play a central role in delivering care across the state.
“Their professionalism, clinical expertise, and compassion support people every day, in every part of NSW,” he said.
He also noted the breadth of nursing roles beyond hospitals, including education and research settings.
The recognition of nurses is also being marked in Tasmania, where the State Government has acknowledged the contribution of nurses working across hospitals, primary care, aged care, mental health and community services.
Tasmanian Health Minister Bridget Archer said nurses remain central to the functioning of the health system.
“Their professionalism, resilience and commitment ensure Tasmanians receive safe, high quality care, often during their most vulnerable moments,” she said.
She said the government has continued to support workforce development, including additional nursing positions since 2014 and a focus on expanding advanced practice roles.
The recently released Nurse Practitioner Strategy 2025 to 2030 aims to strengthen the role of Nurse Practitioners in Tasmania, supporting their ability to diagnose, treat and prescribe within their scope of practice.
Minister Archer said this approach is intended to improve access to timely, person-centred care while supporting workforce development.
“To every nurse, thank you. You make an extraordinary difference, and today we celebrate your dedication, leadership and the profound impact you have on Tasmanians and their families,” she said.
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