SA Nurses and Midwives to Strike Over Pay Dispute | South Australia News

SA Government Offers Immediate Pay Rise to Nurses Amid Strike Threat

Nurses and midwives at Adelaide's Lyell McEwin Hospital have voted to go on a 24-hour strike starting Thursday, demanding a pay increase of over 20% over three years. The South Australian government is responding with an immediate 4% wage rise in hopes of averting the walk-off. Elizabeth Dabars of the ANMF union emphasizes the need for competitive wages due to national shortages. The strike could impact outpatient appointments and surgeries at the hospital. Health Minister Chris Picton believes this significant pay increase, the largest in 15 years, will prevent nurses from missing out during negotiations. Meanwhile, Industrial Relations Minister Kyam Maher cautions against overpaying beyond what's affordable, referencing Victoria's situation. With negotiations paused ahead of the state election on March 21, both sides aim to reach an agreement soon.