The New South Wales Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) hosted its 79th Annual Conference in Sydney, Australia, delivering a clear message: it's time to value nurses and midwives. Over 700 professionals from across the state gathered at the International Convention Centre in Darling Harbour from 7-9 August to demand recognition, respect, and long-overdue reforms from policymakers. 

The theme of this year’s conference, "Value Nurses and Midwives," underscores the persistent gender inequity in Australia's largest female workforce. NSWNMA General Secretary Shaye Candish highlighted the crucial role nurses and midwives play in the healthcare system, yet their contributions continue to be undervalued. 

"Nurses and midwives are the backbone of our healthcare system," Candish stated. "Despite our presence across all health and aged care settings, we face deep-seated undervaluing across the workforce. Our patients and communities recognise our worth— it's time for decision-makers to do the same." 

The global perspective on nursing and midwifery migration was explored by representatives from California and Fiji. Filomena Talawadua, General Secretary of the Fiji Nursing Association, highlighted the severe impact of nurse migration on Fiji's healthcare system. 

 "Nurses are the heartbeat of every nation," Talawadua said. "The exodus of nurses from Fiji to countries like Australia has depleted our healthcare system. We are in a crisis, and we need our government to recognise this and take action."  

The conference featured keynote speakers who addressed the multifaceted challenges nurses and midwives face. Professor Rae Cooper AO, a leading expert in gender, work, and employment relations from the University of Sydney Business School, emphasised the need to address the gendered inequalities that pervade the healthcare workforce. 

"We operate within a highly gendered labour market rife with inequalities," Cooper said. "Addressing these issues isn't just about women; it's a union issue, and it's a government issue. We need to create jobs that women want to stay in, jobs that are engaging, respected, and valued." 

Professor Hannah Dahlen AM, a renowned midwifery expert from Western Sydney University, highlighted the critical shortage of midwives worldwide and the need for greater investment in midwifery. 

"The world is facing a shortage of 900,000 midwives," Dahlen warned. "Midwives are essential, and we must value and support them. It's time to invest in women and those who care for them." 

Dr. Ali Drummond, CEO of the Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM), emphasised the importance of cultural safety and the need for non-Indigenous Australians to support the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nursing and midwifery workforce. 

"Our communities have been living on hope for too long," Drummond said. "We need non-Indigenous people to be courageous, hungry for change, and committed to following our lead." 

The conference also addressed the pressing issue of affordable housing, a significant challenge for many nurses and midwives in Sydney. Grassroots housing group of Sydney – YIMBY – discussed the need for a rethink in town planning and development, which resonated strongly with the attendees. 

Australia’s Minister for Health and Regional Health Ryan Park addressed the delegates on the second day.  

The message from the NSWNMA Annual Conference is clear: the time has come to recognise the vital contributions of nurses and midwives, address gender inequity, and implement reforms that will ensure these essential professionals are valued for their critical role in society.