Nurse shortage ‘avoidable’
NEW mothers risk missing crucial milestones to detect developmental delays in babies and post-natal depression with the shortage of maternal and child health (MCH) nurses that’s facing Victoria’s health system.
MCH nurses provide crucial follow up health checks and support in the home for new mothers.
Disappointingly, these maternity nurse workforce shortages were avoidable.
Two years before the pandemic, a 2018 report by the Victorian Parliament’s Maternal and Child Health Committee exposed “skills shortages and lack of MCH nurses” across the system.
Despite these warnings, Daniel Andrews failed to act and now these shortages are so bad that some regions have been forced to cut service delivery in recent months.
Recently, The Nationals’ Shadow Minister for Women Emma Kealy has also exposed the government’s failure to allocate additional clinical placement training days for MCH nurses in this year’s State Budget.
This isn’t a COVID issue, these services have been cut because Daniel Andrews failed to act on warnings five years ago.
Only The Nationals, if elected to government in November this year, will fix Labor’s health crisis and make sure new mums and families can get the care they deserve.
Peter Walsh
Leader of The Nationals
Member for Murray Plains
Salvos grateful
THE Salvation Army is again very humbled by the generous support of the Australian public for our Red Shield Appeal this year.
As we approach the end of financial year, The Salvos are still appealing to the community as we aim to raise $36 million by June 30.
For more than 50 years, Aussies have continued to support The Salvation Army, allowing us the privilege to be on the front line, walking alongside individuals doing it tough around the country, all with the mission of bringing hope and support to those who need it most.
For me, the Red Shield Appeal isn’t just about raising much-needed funds for our 2000+ services – it’s about coming together to support one another, to remind our neighbours and local community that no matter how tough times are, we’re here for each other, ready to give a helping hand when needed.
After the past couple of years which have seen devastating social isolation, natural and health disasters, and the current shocking rise in the cost of living, it has filled The Salvation Army with overwhelming gratitude to see so many people generously give their money and time as we work together to provide vital support services for people doing it tough in local communities around the nation.
When there’s work to be done, Aussies roll up their sleeves and get stuck into it. And Australians should know that thanks to their generosity and support, The Salvation Army is once again ready to roll up their sleeves and ensure we continue to serve communities across the country.
To your readers, from all of us here at The Salvos: thank you – we couldn’t do it without you.
Major Bruce Harmer
The Salvation Army
National public relations secretary
