Enrolled Nurse Reveals Industry Challenges and Salary Concerns
An enrolled nurse in Australia has shed light on the financial and emotional challenges nurse practitioners face, revealing her annual earnings of $78,000. This figure has sparked discussions about the need for better remuneration and support for healthcare workers in the country.
The Brisbane-based nurse shared her experiences in an interview conducted by the job app Getahead, explaining that she is nearing the completion of her registered nursing degree. She is considering staying in the hospital environment or transitioning to a role as an army medic. "I work between 8 to 16 hours a day and specialise in cardiovascular respiratory care, which is quite demanding," she stated.
Her journey into nursing was fuelled by personal experiences while caring for her grandparents, particularly after her grandfather had a heart attack and her grandmother battled cancer. "I find immense satisfaction in helping those who cannot care for themselves—that aspect of giving back is incredibly significant to me," she expressed.
However, when questioned about whether nurses receive adequate support from hospitals and the government, she responded frankly, stating that, in her opinion, they do not. "We have to fight so hard for our pay increases and basic rights. Many do not understand the emotional toll this job can take, and we definitely need more support," she remarked.
The viral video of her interview has garnered tens of thousands of views, resonating with many Australian nurses who voiced their agreement in the comments section. One nurse commented, "This is one of the most accurate interviews I’ve seen regarding nursing. I fully agree that we constantly battle for fair wages and recognition." Others similarly highlighted the emotional exhaustion nursing entails.
Public sentiment echoed the nurse’s thoughts, with several commenters suggesting that nurses are underpaid. One user noted, "Nurses deserve a decent wage," while another stated, "Though the government claims to value nurses, the compensation does not reflect that."
According to SEEK, a job market resource, enrolled nurses typically earn between $70,000 and $75,000, whereas registered nurses command a higher average income ranging from $85,000 to $95,000.
To become an enrolled nurse in Australia, individuals usually need to complete a Diploma of Nursing, typically taking between 18 to 24 months. Registered nurses, on the other hand, must hold a Bachelor of Nursing and be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia to practise legally.
In recent developments, Queensland nurses have voted to strike for the first time in two decades, advocating for better pay and working conditions. The Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union is urging the government to fulfil its election promises concerning suitable pay for the health workforce. The current pay offer from the state government includes a gradual increase of 3% by April 2025, followed by 2.5% increases in the subsequent two years, and an additional 3% in December 2027. The union is pressing for an improved offer to match the demands of the workforce.
Overall, the challenges faced by nurses in Australia—ranging from financial compensation to emotional well-being—underscore the need for systemic change within the healthcare sector. As discussions surrounding these issues continue, the contributions of nursing professionals demand greater recognition and support.
