Eighty new graduate nurses and midwives have joined the Southern NSW Local Health District, and will soon be joining on the front lines of local health services.
Liberal candidate for Bega, Dr Fiona Kotvojs, welcomed the new graduates joining the health system at a significant time for the region.
"The NSW Government is continuing to invest record amounts in our frontline health staff, and we have seen the great results of that investment in our community.
"The advocacy of Andrew Constance has been particularly effective in delivering health infrastructure and a workforce for the Bega electorate."
Other recent local health announcements have included:
- $20 million funding for a HealthOne for Batemans Bay.
- $45 million for modern, sustainable accommodation for health workers close to health facilities across regional NSW.
- An additional $60 million (total $260 million) to ensure that all services and facilities that are needed to be delivered at Eurobodalla Regional Hospital, are delivered.
Between 2012 and 2021, the nursing workforce and midwifery workforce in NSW increased by 9,599 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff, or 23 per cent, to 51,794 FTE.
Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said the nurses were joining the health system at a pivotal time in the state's history.
"These graduates join us at an incredibly challenging time. We thank them, and all of our nurses, for their contributions to support the health system and the people of NSW," Mr Hazzard said.
Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the influx of graduate nurses in Southern NSW will be a huge asset to district.
"These fantastic new graduate nurses and midwives will soon be working on the frontline in our emergency departments, maternity wards and community teams, making a huge difference in the region," Mrs Taylor said.
"As someone who got my start in a regional hospital, I know the skills and experience they gain will set them up for success into their future nursing career.
"There is nothing more rewarding than being a nurse. The privilege of patients and families allowing you into their lives when at their most vulnerable is a true honour.
"I am so pleased for these 80 new graduates, and I know they will be proudly supported by their regional communities throughout the journey of their career."
Throughout their first year, graduates are provided with opportunities in a variety of clinical settings to ensure they gain a range of experience and consolidate skills and knowledge developed whilst at university.
"With a recurrent budget of $27.1 billion in 2021-22, a more than 75 per cent increase on Labor's last budget, the NSW Liberals and Nationals are continuing to invest in local health services to ensure this community gets its fair share," Mr Hazzard said.
Since coming into Government, the Liberals and Nationals have delivered more than 110 health capital projects across rural and regional NSW with more than 70 additional projects currently underway.
