There is
a growing shortage for nurses in Australia, with an immediate demand for
5,000 nurses in the state of New South Wales alone.
In a report released by the federal Department of
Employment, Work Place Relations, and Small Business
(DEWRSB), on their regular assessment of national and
state skills shortages, the nursing sector was among the top
with the shortage at a critical level. Shortages are mainly
in the areas of intensive care, a&e, paediatrics and
aged care.
The government has promised to assign equal priority as that
accorded to doctors. As part of the program to address the
shortage, emphasis will be laid on nursing education. The
nursing unions are lobbying for a 6% pay rise, better work
hours and paid study leave among other issues.
Some
state boards are launching a year-long campaign to attract
nurses. The scarcity of nurses, is resulting in hospitals
and nursing agencies attracting international recruits
through sponsorships.
|