Queensland Health Statement on QIRC action

Since December 2024, Queensland Health has negotiated with the Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) and Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) to reach agreement for the provision of nation-leading wages and conditions for Queensland nurses and midwives.

Despite our efforts and steadfast commitment over 36 meetings to negotiating in good faith with the union, an agreement has not been reached.

Queensland Health is committed to responsibly delivering on the Government’s election promise to maintain nation-leading wages and conditions. As part of this commitment, $1.8 billion in improvements will be offered over four financial years.

Conversely, the QNMU has rejected two offers without presenting a realistic or sustainable alternative. This is disappointing and denies better pay and conditions for Queensland Health’s 56,000 dedicated nurses and midwives.

It is my responsibility to prevent further delays to nurses and midwives receiving the wages and conditions they deserve and I am now seeking the assistance of the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC).

Seeking independent assistance through the QIRC is the necessary and responsible course of action to help swiftly resolve the remaining issues in the best interests of our hardworking nurses and midwives.

Our utmost priority remains the health, safety and wellbeing of our staff and patients.

Director-General Dr David Rosengren

Patient safety is the priority during Protected Industrial Action

Queenslanders accessing the public health system during protected industrial action can be confident they’ll receive the same safe, timely and expert care our health workers are committed to providing.

Hospital and health services have plans in place to limit disruption.

Queensland Health respects its nurses and midwives and prioritises the wellbeing and welfare of staff and patients.

Our previous $1.8 billion offer

Nurses and midwives are at the heart of Queensland’s healthcare system.

Nurses and midwives would have seen a significant pay increase and the vast majority would have been the best-paid in the country.

For the first time in Australia, nurses would have been paid overtime at double-time rates, alongside better conditions and night shift arrangements.

Two nurses walking through a hospital ward with patients seated in chairs along the hallway.

Our $1.8 billion offer over four financial years included:

  • Nation-leading wages

    With excellent conditions, penalty rates plus cost of living.

  • The best conditions

    Including commitment to nurse-to-patient ratios, support for managers and a new first - paid overtime at double-time rates.

  • Investing in you

    A clear investment in your career, development, safety and wellbeing.

Last updated: July 2025

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