Media Release
26 November 2007
Nurses welcome a Rudd Labor government
The 150,000 strong Australian Nursing Federation (ANF) today welcomed the election of the Rudd Labor Government with optimism for the future for health care, nurses and nursing. We congratulate Kevin Rudd on becoming Prime Minister.
Ged Kearney, ANF Acting Federal Secretary said; “The Labor victory is a defining moment for Australia, a moment when voters decided on new leadership and rejected the harsh WorkChoices legislation overwhelmingly. Australians not only rejected AWAs but saw through the Liberal Party’s piecemeal approach to health policy, best demonstrated by the Mersey Hospital debacle.
“The ANF looks forward to working with the new government to implement the pre-election policies on health reform, primary health care and revitalising the health workforce. But other outstanding areas require immediate attention. For example, a significant wages gap exists between nurses working in aged care and other sectors that make it impossible for aged care providers to attract and retain qualified staff and to ensure quality care. Indigenous and rural and remote health also require fundamental and thoughtful change.
“There are 250,000 nurses in Australia and our members will hold the ALP to account. We expect Mr Rudd to fulfill his promises to address major systemic problems through health reform, increased public hospital funding and better aged care solutions.” Ms Kearney said.
“The election of the ALP is a positive first step toward better health outcomes for all Australians and fairer working conditions for our members.”
Media inquiries:
Ged Kearney, Acting Federal Secretary, 0417 053 322
Libby Muir, Communications Officer, 0413 834 979
The ANF, representing 150,000 members, is the professional and industrial voice for nurses and midwives in