ON THE
RECORD JUNE 2016
Historic public sector EBA to close the wages gap pages 4-8
Mental health nurses’ EBA campaign
Record audience at Health and Environmental Sustainability Conference
Meet research nurse Susan McQueen
page 9
page 10
page 12
www.anmfvic.asn.au
540 Elizabeth Street Melbourne Vic 3000
Know your entitlements Inside this edition
2 Know your entitlements 3 Secretary’s report
Tax 2016 information Alison O’Gorman, Information Officer
4-8 EBA 2016 News
What items can I claim as deductions for my 2016 tax return?
7 • P rivate sector EBA update
It is that time of year again, when we begin to gather up our group certificates and lodge a tax return with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Remember there are many items that nurses and midwives can claim as deductions in relation to work related expenses.
9 • M ental health public sector
EBA update • Aged care slashed under Federal Budget
In focus
10 • H ealth and environmental sustainability
11 • A future beyond fossil fuels • Chemical-free cleaning at Monash world first
12 • Member profile
Susan McQueen
13 • ANMF (Vic Branch) Mental health conference
• Strategies for fatigue avoidance
14 • Job Rep training • OHS courses
15 • ANMF (Vic Branch) monthly membership fees
• SIGs
• Union/professional body memberships members can claim the cost of their union fees and also fees associated with being a member of a professional body. • Registration fees nurses and midwives are able to claim the cost of their AHPRA registration fees. • Self-education nurses and midwives are able claim cost associated with education associated with their practice/role including but not limited to:
- costs of attending professional conferences, seminars, completing online modules or courses
- costs of professional literature
- professional journal subscriptions, access to research articles, text books.
• Professional services nurses and midwives accessing professional services such as resume services or private professional supervision services.
• Clothing, laundry and dry-cleaning expenses You can claim a deduction for the cost of buying and cleaning occupation-specific clothing, protective clothing and unique distinctive uniforms, stockings. • T ools, equipment and other assets If you buy tools or equipment to help earn your income, you can claim a deduction – for example, stethoscopes, equipment pouches, neurological torches, nurses’ and midwives’ watches, mobile phones (if required for your role). Reimbursements You cannot claim a deduction for expenses you incur if those expenses are reimbursed to you by your employer – you do not include a reimbursement on your tax return. For a detailed overview of what can be claimed, plus exemptions and examples, please visit the Australian Taxation Office website ato.gov.au and search for ‘nurses deductions’ or use this link: http://bit.ly/1L0sGlz Note. Members are reminded that they can download their ANMF membership receipt for tax deduction purposes as well as evidence of professional indemnity insurance via the Member Portal at the ANMF (Vic Branch) website – www.anmfvic.asn.au
• Vehicle and travel expenses You can claim vehicle and other travel expenses directly connected with your work but you can't claim for normal trips between home and work, which are considered private travel.
16 • Education calendar
ANMF (Vic Branch) 540 Elizabeth St, Melbourne Vic 3000 Phone 9275 9333 Fax 9275 9344 Info Line 9275 9300 (metro) 1800 133 353 (regional) Membership 9275 9313 Library 9275 9391 ANMF Education Centre 9275 9363 Website: anmfvic.asn.au Facebook: facebook.com/RespectOurWork Twitter: @ANMFvicbranch Email: records@anmfvic.asn.au
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www.anmfvic.asn.au
Secretary’s report
Your ANMF Lisa Fitzpatrick, State Secretary
Paul Gilbert,
Assistant Secretary
Pip Carew,
Assistant Secretary
Historic public sector win Lisa Fitzpatrick
The new public sector agreement is historic because of what it achieves and how it was achieved. We have secured almost all of our claims either in full, or in part, without taking significant industrial action for the first time in more than 20 years. We have been campaigning for some of our wins for up to 14 years. Not all are big ticket items, not all of them cost, but they will significantly improve nurses’ and midwives’ working lives and your ability to provide safe patient care. The new agreement includes net wage parity with NSW, modernisation of our tired 30-year-old career structure, 8:8:10 roster in 24 facilities, violence prevention initiatives, programs to reduce environmental waste, new provisions to deal with excessive overtime and fatigue, and removal of ambiguous clauses that allowed employers to undermine previous gains. Your paid professional leave can no longer be used for mandatory employer education. Choosing to undertake postgrad education will no longer mean you are forced to lose pay by reverting to Grade 2, Year 2. And there is much more. It was hard not to notice that it was a very different campaign. We were negotiating fair pay rises. We didn’t have to fight for safe patient care because the Andrews Government put ratios into law. Not a bed was closed. No elective surgery was cancelled. No one walked out of a hospital. We did wear our red T-shirts. Never underestimate the power of those shirts to start a conversation with a member of the public or create solidarity in your workplace. For those members involved in the ninemonth ‘Respect our Work’ campaign of 2011-12 – we are indeed in a new era. If this was your first campaign please take some time to look at our campaign flashback, on page 8, recognising members’ hard work in the lead up to this year’s win.
Cover image: Branch Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick flanked by Assistant Secretaries Paul Gilbert and Pip Carew at the May 5 statewide public sector meeting. Photo by Les O'Rourke. On the Record is the official publication of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (Victorian Branch). OTR is published monthly.
www.anmfvic.asn.au
The big difference this time was the Andrews Government's negotiations were purposeful and, as promised by Health Minister Jill Hennessy, senior government officials were at the negotiating table long before beds would have closed. In the last five EBA campaigns the decision makers have only ever come to the table once nurses started taking serious industrial action. This time it was not about playing games or saving ratios. That meant there was a willingness to resolve all of the issues in our claim. And that’s why we have such a great agreement.
Negotiations are continuing about the inclusion of stand-alone community health centres, four public aged care facilities, the two parents and baby centres and Ballarat District Nursing Service. I am confident they will be included in the public sector agreement. Thank you to members in these workplaces who are campaigning locally to ensure your employers understand the importance of a single-interest agreement Congratulations to all members who supported our successful campaign to negotiate an agreement that values, recognises and rewards nurses and midwives. For our full report see pages 4 to 8. Mental health At the time of print a public sector mental health nurses and community mental health nurses statewide meeting had voted to begin protected industrial action. Members have started wearing campaign T-shirts and have called on the Andrews Government to send senior officials and an independent facilitator to the table to assist with a quick resolution to enterprise bargaining negotiations. Mental health nurses were demanding a serious and respectful offer consistent with the general public sector nurses and midwives agreement including ratios, workload management provisions, career structure and back pay to 1 April. Aged care investment After years of neglect and selling off of public aged care facilities by previous governments, the Andrews Government has announced a major investment in public aged care. Last month’s state budget includes a plan to build a $57.6 million 90-bed nursing home. Importantly the facility will include mental health beds and will be part of a hospital precinct – St George's Hospital in Kew. This is a sign that the Andrews Government has listened to ANMF aged care nurses and understands the complex clinical nursing needs of the people who live in nursing homes. Again, rather than slashing health services, the Andrews Government continues to build the system with its comprehensive $2.5 billion health budget. This includes $817 million for infrastructure but also $107 million for additional specialised mental health beds, $25 million to meet the demand for community mental health care, a $133 million funding boost for maternal and child health services and $5.5 million to train and support frontline health workers caring for people affected by ice.
June 2016
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News ANMF (Vic Branch) secures historic eight-year EBA
ANMF (Vic Branch) and its members have achieved an historic 2016–2020 enterprise agreement outcome for Victorian public sector nurses and midwives – delivering net pay equality with NSW without the need for industrial action. ANMF (Vic Branch) Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick and Assistant Secretaries Paul Gilbert and Pip Carew, thank all members who engaged in the campaign by attending meetings, voting for the right to take industrial action, wearing red ANMF shirts, distributing campaign information and supporting the campaign via social media. Ms Fitzpatrick also acknowledged the role of Health Minister Jill Hennessy, whose commitment to ensuring Victorian nurses and midwives were valued, recognised and rewarded meant that senior government representatives were at the negotiating table early in the campaign. Having begun negotiations with the employers’ representative, the Victorian Hospitals’ Industrial Association in late January, ANMF (Vic Branch) reached an agreement with the Victorian Government and employers on the evening of 4 May. The agreement was taken to a statewide members meeting the following day, with a celebratory audience of over 1000 members unanimously voting to accept the offer. The agreement will deliver pay equality with NSW on 1 April 2019. The 2016 pay increase is between 3.6 and 4.9 per cent dependent on your classification, with enrolled nurses and graduates receiving the highest increase.
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This will be back paid to public sector nurses and midwives from the first full pay period on or after 1 April when the agreement is finalised. In 2017, all nurses and midwives will receive a three per cent pay increase and in 2018, all nurses and midwives will receive a 3.25 per cent pay increase. In 2019, a new nursing and midwifery career structure will be introduced, modernising the current structure which has been in place for 30 years. Wage increases will be paid on the first pay period on or after 1 April 2019, bringing Victorian wages in line with those of NSW. Ms Fitzpatrick told members at the 5 May meeting that it was an historic day, with the offer being presented achieving almost all of the EBA log of claims in full or part, claims that had been put forward by Job Reps at delegates’ conferences, some for up to 14 years. ‘The offer benefits all nurses and midwives, irrespective of your classification, or where you live in this great state of Victoria,’ she said. ‘It’s an offer that improves your working lives and removes the trickery that some employers resort to which has undermined our gains in the past. ‘It’s an offer that removes ambiguity from our EBA and will reduce disputation in our workplaces. It’s an offer that protects our terms and conditions, such as our long service leave, our sick leave and our penalty rates on weekends. ‘It’s an offer that restores the pay attached to our career structure and an offer that will pave the way for a new career structure to be developed that reflects nursing and midwifery in the 21st century, not a tired structure that reflects what nursing and midwifery work looked like 30 years ago.’
As well as securing wage increases within the 2016–20 agreement to close the pay gap between Victorian nurses and midwives and their NSW counterparts, the ANMF (Vic Branch) also reached agreement with the government and employers for three per cent wage increases in 2020, 2021 and 2022 as part of the 2020-24 agreement. Other significant claims agreed include: • 8:8:10 rosters to be introduced at 24 workplaces which had 8:8:8 rosters • Employers need to establish and maintain an effective occupational violence and aggression prevention and management program, with ANMF’s involvement • Full shifts have been prioritised for permanent staff members, with employers needing to keep records. ANMF can access shift records • Measures to manage and reduce risk around fatigue, including employers having to provide transport home if a nurse or midwife has worked a double shift • 20 days paid domestic violence leave • A service delivery partnership plan that reduces health facilities’ environmental impacts, as well as reducing illness and injury through occupational health and safety interventions • Qualifications allowance to be paid on completion of course rather than from graduation date • Overtime to apply from the end of a shift, regardless of shift length • New organisational change entitlements, including up to three months supernumerary retraining and $1900 relocation allowance • Qualification allowance for double degree and master entry.
www.anmfvic.asn.au
Public sector nurses and midwives EBA 2016 – how it happened 20 October 2015 Statewide meeting of Job Reps EBA log of claims endorsed by Job Reps
10 November 2015 Victorian Branch Council endorsed log of claims A key claim was for salaries to be increased to reflect those of NSW nurses and midwives, many of whom are earning four to 20 per cent more than their Victorian counterparts. We also wanted the continuing professional development allowance to be rolled into the hourly rate, and for shift lengths in inpatient areas to be standardised to eight hour day, eight hour afternoon and 10 hour night shifts.
Late January 2016 ANMF (Vic Branch) began negotiations with the employers’ representative, the Victorian Hospitals’ Industrial Association, the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Industrial Relations Victoria.
23 March 2016 First statewide members meeting Hundreds of members arrived on buses from around Victoria at Moonee Valley Racecourse and emphatically rejected the Victorian Government’s offer of a three per cent pay rise. ‘Now that Premier Daniel Andrews has honoured his 2014 election commitment and ratios have been made law it is time for nurses' and midwives' salaries to catch up,’ Branch Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick told members. ‘Nurses and midwives always put patient care first but the employers and the government must value, recognise and reward their work and pay them fairly and in line with NSW.’
31 March 2016 The 2012–16 enterprise agreement ended End of March to 18 April - Members around Victoria took part in an Australian Electoral Commission ballot for the right to take protected industrial action in the EBA campaign. For each workplace to be able to take protected industrial action, more than 50 per cent of staff needed to vote and of those, more than 50 per cent needed to vote ‘yes’. ANMF staff personally contacted 32,000 members to ask if they have received ballot papers and encouraged them to vote. www.anmfvic.asn.au
21 April 2016 Second statewide members meeting Hundreds of members voted to delay industrial action pending intensive negotiations over pay and other EBA claims. Branch Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick told members that, while the ballot did not succeed at all workplaces, the vast majority of nurses and midwives voted in favour of taking protected industrial action if needed, to achieve their EBA claims. Branch Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick told the members that the executive had met with Health Minister Jill Hennessy and ANMF would begin discussions with senior government representatives the following day, ‘a very good sign’ so early in the EBA negotiation process.
22 April 2016 Negotiations with senior government representatives begin. Ballot results declared. The final results of the ballot for the right to take protected industrial action are announced by the Australian Electoral Commission and 112 health facilities have the right to take action.
29 April 2016 Members begin wearing red T-shirts in their workplaces and distributing information As negotiations between ANMF, the government and the employers’ representative, the Victorian Hospitals’ Industrial Association, continued, members at workplaces where the ballot was successful began wearing red union shirts and giving out campaign information.
5 May 2016 Third statewide members meeting ANMF (Vic Branch) Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick's announcement that she has a comprehensive offer that achieves nearly all claims either in full or part and benefits all nurses and midwives regardless of classification is met with resounding applause from up to 1000 nurses and midwives. In an historic agreement, reached without industrial action and in record time, pay increases have been agreed over eight years, the duration of two EBAs.
What about ratios? Questions raised by members during the public sector EBA campaign indicate there is some confusion about how improvements to nurse/ midwife: patient ratios will be negotiated. Nurse/midwife: patient ratios were taken off the EBA negotiating table when ratios were legislated as the Safe Patient Care Act 2015. We now have a separate process for gaining ratios improvements. Recommendations to improve ratios are made by members as resolutions presented by Job Reps during the annual ANMF (Vic Branch) Delegates Conference. The next Delegates Conference is on 23-24 June and the deadline to submit resolutions has passed. Delegates’ conferences in 2013, 2014 and 2015 have already endorsed various areas where ratios should be improved or implemented. The Victorian Government will establish a Ministerial Advisory Council to prepare a report to Health Minister Jill Hennessy on ratio improvements and extensions over time. The Branch has a designated team to undertake the work required for the ANMF (Vic Branch) to present a submission to the council. The Premier has committed to ratio improvements, and we are taking the opportunity to progress our member claims in this area. ANMF (Vic Branch) will keep members updated about our progress with ratios improvements and extensions.
June 2016
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News
Health and safety
Education
Pay rises
Focus on health and safety in new EBA
EBA provides new education entitlements
Pay rises under the new public sector EBA
The importance of occupational health and safety in the nursing and midwifery professions has been highlighted by its inclusion in the body of the 2016–20 EBA rather than as an appendix, as has been the case in previous agreements.
The new public sector EBA provides nurses and midwives with entitlements that will support them in building their skills and knowledge through professional development and postgraduate education.
The new public sector EBA achieves pay increases for all nurses and midwives regardless of classification over an eight year period of two agreements.
There are several measures to improve the occupational health and safety of nurses and midwives in the EBA, including entitlements to reduce fatigue-related risk.
Under the new agreement, CPD leave is not to be used for mandatory education and paid leave for CPD can be used to attend professional development activities that fall on a day nurses and midwives are not rostered to work. Other provisions that support nurses’ and midwives’ education:
Under the new EBA, nurses and midwives are entitled to 24 hours off duty without loss of pay if they have worked 14 continuous hours, including night duty work and overtime. If a nurse or midwife works a double shift (which should only occur in emergency circumstances), they will be entitled to two hourly breaks of at least 10 minutes duration and their employer needs to provide them with free, adequate transport home. Also under the new agreement, employers must establish and maintain an effective occupational violence and aggression prevention and management program, with ANMF’s involvement. Occupational health and safety is also central to the service delivery partnership plan, which includes a focus on ways to reduce illness and work-related injury within nursing and midwifery. The new agreement also recognises that many nurses and midwives experience violence and aggression at home and introduces 20 days paid domestic violence leave. Further work is required to develop an appropriate process for applying for this leave.
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• Q ualifications allowance will now apply when evidence is provided of completion of a course, rather than from the graduation date • N urses undertaking postgraduate study relevant to their work at their own initiative will no longer have to drop to Grade 2, Year 2 but can remain at their substantive pay rate • A ‘day’ for the purposes of professional development leave is the employee’s normal shift length • D ouble degree and Masters undertaken before entry to practice will attract a qualifications allowance after 12 months • S tudy leave will cover nurses and midwives undertaking a postgraduate qualification by thesis, research, course work, or combination of these. • A n additional 10 hours of professional development leave for nurse practitioners • S tudy leave can be taken over the course of study in amounts mutually agreeable between the staff member and relevant manager.
In 2016, the first year of the first agreement, the wages gap between Victorian nurses and midwives and their NSW counterparts will begin to close with Victorian nurses and midwives receiving increases between 3.6 and 4.9 per cent, while our NSW colleagues receive a 2.5 per cent increase. In 2017 and 2018, NSW nurses and midwives will receive a 2.5 per cent increase, while Victorians will receive a three per cent pay rise in 2017 and 3.25 per cent in 2018. In 2019, wage increases for all classifications will close the wages gap completely. As examples of the 2016 pay increases, Grade 2 Year 1 nurses and midwives will receive an increase of 4.72 per cent, while Grade 2 year 10s will receive an increase of 4.3 per cent. Clinical nurse/midwife specialists will receive a 4.26 per cent pay rise and a Year 2 ANUM will receive a 4.17 per cent increase. An EN Year 2.1 will receive a 4.83 per cent increase. On 1 April 2019, wage increases from 3.17 to 24.27 per cent, depending on your classification, will close the wages gap with NSW. As examples, Grade 2 Year 8 will receive a 15.76 per cent increase, a clinical nurse/midwife specialist 11.77 per cent and a Grade 4A, Year 1 will receive a 9.88 per cent increase. EN rates will exceed NSW under the following agreement, set to expire on 31 March 2024. ANMF, the government and employers have agreed to three per cent wage increases for 2020, 2021 and 2022. To see how your wages will increase over the course of the agreement, log in with your member number to the EBA 2016 section of the website anmfvic.asn.au www.anmfvic.asn.au
SDPP
8:8:10 roster
ANMF seeks to close the wage gap for private sector nurses ANMF (Vic Branch) is negotiating the next enterprise agreements with private sector employers and has served its log of claims on behalf of members working for Healthscope, Ramsay Healthcare, St John of God, Healthe Care and St Vincent’s Private Hospital.
The Service Delivery Partnership Plan
New 8:8:10 roster for 24 facilities
ANMF (Vic Branch) has negotiated a service delivery partnership plan which gives environmental sustainability and nurses’ and midwives' health and safety the importance they deserve.
Twenty-four health facilities will move from an 8:8:8 roster to an 8:8:10 roster after campaigning, in some cases, since 2002.
The Service Delivery Partnership Plan is formed between employers, government and the ANMF reached as part of the EBA process. Parties agree to efficiency improvements within the Victorian public health sector in exchange for a 0.5 per cent wage increase in addition to the Victorian Government’s baseline 2.5 per cent wage increase. In this forward-thinking plan, ANMF, the government and employers have agreed to discuss, implement and monitor progress of initiatives that include: • Reducing illness and injury through occupational health and safety interventions • Replacing agency staff with bank and permanent staff where possible • For the first time, focusing on reducing the environmental impact of health services in areas of high product use such as theatre, intensive care units, emergency departments, wards and units, and dialysis • Reviewing the contemporary role of the nurse unit manager to develop a three-level classification structure, reflecting the role’s complexity, level of autonomy, access to health service infrastructure and support, responsibility, and governance obligations.
www.anmfvic.asn.au
Job Reps from facilities with 8:8:8 rosters have been raising the issue consistently at ANMF (Vic Branch) annual delegates conferences. The roster change, under the new public sector agreement, will benefit nurses, midwives and patients with additional nurses, increased handover time and more time for professional development. Importantly the additional time in the new roster will also help address fatigue issues for nurses and midwives working an afternoon shift followed by an early shift. The following facilities will move to an 8:8:10 roster, phased in over two years to allow for the recruitment of additional staff where required: Maryborough
Maffra
Sale
Leongatha
Korumburra
Bairnsdale
Heathcote
Rochester/Elmore
Donald
St Arnaud
Beechworth
Benalla
Kilmore
Yarrawonga
Cohuna
Maldon
Cobram
Tatura
Creswick
Warracknabeal
Hopetoun
Bacchus Marsh
Melton
Otway Health Service
Bendigo Residential Aged Care will move from an 8:8:8 roster to an 8:8:9.5 roster consistent with the rest of Bendigo Health.
The public sector 2016–20 EBA is set to close the wages gap between Victorian nurses and midwives and their NSW counterparts in 2019. ANMF is seeking the same pay parity for Victorian nurses working in the private sector. The logs of claims for private acute employers ask for salaries to be increased to at least Victorian public sector rates from 2019, when public sector rates will increase to bring them in line with NSW wages. ANMF (Vic Branch) is also seeking nurse/ midwife:patient ratios matching those of the public sector, as well as ratios for psychiatric inpatient services and a safe skill mix in each ward or facility. Members from St John of God hospitals and Health Choices community health services finalised their logs of claims on 26 April. ANMF (Vic Branch) private acute sector members have requested a report back on negotiations at each facility by 17 June. Healthscope’s Victorian facilities are: Geelong Clinic and Geelong Private, Melbourne Private, Bellbird Private, Como Private, Knox Private, North Eastern Rehabilitation and Victorian Rehabilitation, Glenhaven Special, Dorset Rehabilitation, Cotham Private, John Fawkner Hospital, Melbourne Clinic, Victoria Clinic, Ringwood Private, Frankston Private and Northpark Hospital. Ramsay Healthcare’s Victorian facilities are: Wangaratta Private, Murray Valley Private, Beleura Private, Peninsula Private, Warringal Private, Glenferrie Private, Waverley Private, Frances Perry House, Avenue Private, Linacre Private, Donvale Rehabilitation Hospital, Mitcham Private, Albert Road Private, Masada Hospital and Casey Gardens Day Hospital. Healthe Care facilities are: The Valley Private Hospital, South Eastern Rehabilitation Hospital and Brunswick Private Hospital. St John of God has hospitals in Geelong, Warrnambool, Bendigo, Ballarat, Frankston, Berwick and Pinelodge Clinic in Dandenong, and the community nursing service Health Choices in these locations.
June 2016
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News
Our EBA history in images.
1995
The first Victorian public sector wide nursing enterprise agreement was negotiated with the Kennett Government in 1995. The ANF secured a 10 per cent pay rise over two years for members.
1997 After five years of budget cuts, Vic nurses and midwives were caring for 190,000 more patients with 3500 less staff. Despite these hardships, the campaign managed to win back existing terms and conditions lost under the Howard Government’s Workplace Relations Act and increase nursing hours on the roster.
2000
The historic 2000 campaign is remembered for delivering ratios to nurses and midwives amongst many other things. This was a huge achievement to begin to refill the 1300 permanent full-time vacancies across the state.
2004
2007
The ANF was forced to defend a safe minimum standard of ratios as well as protecting the 8 : 8 : 10 roster. We achieved this by closing 1700 hospital beds and saw great outcomes in study and professional development leave.
The first negotiations held under the difficulties of Workchoices. After a nine day industrial dispute, the ANF secured better maternity leave and equal conditions across roles. ANUM and NUM pay rose. New shifts to deal with the 50% rule and additional EFT for triage and resus in ED were delivered.
2011 & 2012 8
June 2016
A gruelling nine-month campaign was required to protect nurse midwife : patient ratios, improved rehab ratios and prevent substitution of nurses from a hostile government. The ‘Respect Our Work’ campaign showed the power of unified nurses and midwives and led to Daniel Andrews promising to protect ratios in law. www.anmfvic.asn.au
Mental health nurses push for general public health sector wage outcome Nurses working in the public mental health sector voted to take protected industrial action to push for an EBA outcome similar to their general health counterparts, as well as nurse: patient ratios. At a statewide members meeting on 9 May, ANMF (Vic Branch) Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick gave mental health members an update on the general public sector EBA outcome (see pages 4-7 for details of the agreement). Ms Fitzpatrick showed mental health members a table depicting salary increases under the general public sector agreement over the duration of two agreements, 2016– 20 and 2020–24, saying that ANMF was working to secure the same wage outcome for mental health nurses. Members were also updated on progress of negotiations between ANMF, the employers’ representative, the Victorian Hospitals’ Industrial Association (VHIA) and the Health and Community Services Union. At the time of writing, nurse: patient ratios were still on
the negotiating table, with VHIA gathering information on staff numbers and costings. However, VHIA had not agreed to key claims that would ensure the community has continued access to adequate community mental health nurses and also rejected a community workload management clause put forward by both unions. Members passed a resolution at the 9 May meeting to request that former Fair Work Commission deputy president Greg Smith, who facilitated the final negotiations for the general public sector agreement, be appointed for the mental health EBA negotiations. Members also resolved to begin protected industrial action from 19 May if negotiations did not rapidly progress. The public sector mental health EBA expired on 31 March.
Aged care slashed under Federal Budget The Turnbull Government's $1.2 billion 2016-17 Budget cut to aged care funding is actually a massive $2 billion cut, independent analysis has found. The analysis by Ansell Strategic found that proposed changes to the aged care funding instrument would slash $2 billion to aged care providers over the next four years alone. 'This would impact viability of the sector, result of exclusion of high-needs residents and inadequate treatment of residents', Ansell Strategic's report said. From January 2017, an average 80-bed facility would lose $439,000 per year and only 13 per cent of residents would be classified as having high complex health needs, compared to the current 44 per cent. The ANMF has launched a national campaign in the lead-up to the federal election, focusing on crucial issues affecting the ability of nurses, midwives and personal care workers to deliver high quality care. The campaign 'If you don't care, we can't care', focuses on the $57 billion in healthcare funding axed from the states and territories by the Coalition Government. The Victorian Government says the Victorian health system stands to lose $15.4 billion of dollars over the next 10 years or 2.5 million elective surgeries as a result of the Abbott/ Turnbull Government cuts. The ANMF pre-election campaign aims to highlight the effect these cuts will have on our healthcare www.anmfvic.asn.au
system and identify which candidates will stand up for the health of Australians.
uncommon to have one registered nurse to be caring for over 100 elderly patients.
ANMF is asking political parties to:
'In effect, their hands are tied by the government and that’s why we’re saying ‘If they don’t care, we can’t care.’
• restore the $57 billion ripped from national health funding • remove the rebate freeze on Medicare and commit to bulk-billing for our of hospital pathology services • protect penalty rates for all workers and for nurses, midwives and personal care workers • ensure safe staffing in aged care facilities by requiring a registered nurse to be on site 24/7 and protect the public by regulation of personal care workers who assist in the delivery of nursing care and nursing services • reverse the harsh aged care budget cuts. 'A staggering $57 billion was axed from the states and territories by the previous Prime Minister and yet in this year’s Budget, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison have again ignored the urgent need for adequate funding to be injected back into health and aged care,' Acting Federal Secretary Annie Butler said.
For more information about the campaign, visit www.ICareandIVote.com.au The ANMF (Vic Branch) congratulated the Victorian Government for keeping its election promise to halt the privatisation of public aged care with the announcement of Budget funding for a new aged care facility, which will be part of St George's Hospital and will include dedicated mental health beds. Visit anmfvic.asn.au for more details.
'On top of this, the government seems determined to push ahead with dismantling Medicare by freezing rebates for doctors, reducing bulk-billing services and outsourcing its payments system, shifting the cost of basic health services on to consumers. In aged care, $2 billion has been slashed from funding and that means it’s now not June 2016
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In focus – Health and environmental sustainability Record audience at Health and Environmental Sustainability Conference A record number of nurses and midwives attending this year’s ANMF (Vic Branch) Health & Environmental Sustainability Conference heard about inspiring efforts to minimise the environmental impacts of the health sector and how to gather support for environmental action. As well as sharing information about environmental initiatives in Victorian hospitals, such as chemical-free cleaning and the impacts of climate change on health, conference speakers such as chef and founder of the Kitchen Garden Foundation, Stephanie Alexander, and nurse/wellness coach Kate Borradaile encouraged nurses and midwives to be mindful of their own sustainable health habits. Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas, spoke about the Victorian Government’s environmental initiatives and Australian Conservation Foundation Climate Campaign Manager Victoria McKenzieMcHarg used last year’s People’s Climate March, held in Melbourne ahead of the Paris climate talks, as a case study of mobilising people into action. With up to 60,000 people marching, the Melbourne event was reportedly the biggest of any city in the world. Rural and regional nurses and midwives were attentive to the presentation by Dr Susan Brumby, Director, National Centre for Farmer Health, on the health, safety and wellbeing of farming communities in a changing climate. Stephanie Alexander gave the 550 conference attendees healthy food tips and spoke about her foundation that has brought the growing and cooking of fresh produce into more than 800 schools around Australia. The author of the popular cookbook The Cook’s Companion said that she founded the Kitchen Garden Foundation 15 years ago with the belief that her infectious enthusiasm for freshly prepared food could be harnessed to counter the poor eating habits that were contributing to obesity.
Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas
‘I’m very disappointed when I hear any health professional distinguish between eating for pleasure and eating for health. Every meal should involve eating for pleasure and eating for health. It’s hard to better Michael Pollan’s message: ‘Eat food, mostly plants, not too much,’” Ms Alexander said.
Assistant Secretary Pip Carew, Stephanie Alexander and CPD and Environmental Health Officer, Libby Muir
Ms Alexander said that eating foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt should be an occasional treat but ‘special occasion foods should be enjoyed with gusto and without guilt’. Her statement that ‘Sometimes we get too busy to think straight and our blood sugar plummets and we must eat at once, whatever is at hand and whatever is quick’ resonated with nurses and midwives at the conference. But Ms Alexander gave some tips for nurses and their families to maintain sustainable healthy and delicious diets, despite busy lifestyles.
Stephanie’s food tips for hardworking nurses and midwives Acknowledge to yourself that delicious fresh food is a priority.
Plan – think about what you’re going to have for dinner at 7am, not 6.45pm. Think ahead about what your day entails so you can buy fresh ingredients along the way.
Add your perishable foods: fish, mushrooms etc. Try to not get too hungry – if you eat when your blood sugar is low, you’ll make poor food choices.
‘When I leave the house, I have a mental map in my head – “I’m going to be near that shop where I can buy that sourdough bread that I like”, or “It’s a market day so I can go to the market and buy everything I need…’
Keep a container of salad greens in the fridge and top it up every four days.
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June 2016
Have the essentials on hand in your pantry that every foodloving, health-conscious person needs: Australian extra virgin olive oil; good sourdough bread; free-range eggs; vegetable staples (for an easy roast vegetable dinner – pumpkin, carrot, potato, sweet potato, cauliflower); chunk of parmesan; tinned tomatoes; anchovies; tuna; cannellini beans; chickpeas; dried pasta; nuts and seeds, including pinenuts.
Have Stephanie Alexander’s The Cook’s Companion in the kitchen! www.anmfvic.asn.au
'People power' is the key to our future beyond fossil fuels, campaigners say Environmental campaigners are keen to work with the health sector to drive action towards a clean energy transformation, the climate campaign manager from the Australian Conservation Foundation said. Victorian McKenzie-McHarg spoke to the Health and Environmental Sustainability Conference attendees about how environmental campaigners saw the need to change strategy when the carbon price was scrapped after the last election. Communities wanted action on climate change but were overridden by the lobbying of big, wealthy polluters. In the lead-up to last year's Paris talks on climate change, there was a need to bring the community together 'stronger, bigger, broader and deeper than ever before' in the form of the People's Climate March. She said the health sector and ANMF was already driving environmental action that nurses and midwives could get involved in, including the Healthy Futures campaign to lobby superannuation companies to divest from fossil fuels. 'Our priorities are about building momentum towards a clean energy transformation in this country and that's going to need a really comprehensive approach to so many parts of our lives. It's absolutely about replacing dirty polluting fuels and replacing them with clean energy and also getting serious about energy efficiency,' she said. Tracie Lund, Coordinator of the Morwell Neighbourhood House, told the conference that the Hazelwood Mine Fire in 2014 had galvanized the Latrobe Valley community to take charge of their future beyond coal-generated power. Ms Lund, who was a community witness at the Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry, told the audience that Morwell was already disadvantaged when the Hazelwood Mine Fire occurred in February 2014, burning for 45 days and sending plumes of acrid smoke and ash into the Latrobe Valley, including Morwell. Into this environment of disadvantage came the fire and the resulting health impacts, including nose-bleeds, respiratory infections and
Chemical-free cleaning at Monash world first Nurses and midwives at the Health and Environmental Sustainability Conference were told of a world-first, chemical-free cleaning regime that has been introduced across Monash Health’s hospital and aged care sites.
likely, as yet unknown, long-term impacts. The Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry found that a spike in deaths in the Latrobe Valley between February and June 2014 were likely to have been caused by the fire. Ms Lund said the failures of agencies to communicate with and engage the community around the mine fire were well documented by the Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry. But there had been an unexpected outcome – the community had stood up to be counted. ‘Until the mine fire in 2014, the plight of the Latrobe Valley was largely ignored by the state and in fact the country. The mine fire started a relentless battle to bring awareness of the industrial and health disaster that was unfolding,’ Ms Lund said. Morwell residents took to the streets in protest, attended rallies and spoke to the media. An independent candidate ran for the seat of Morwell in the 2014 Victorian election – the government was put on notice. Ms Lund said that recently Premier Daniel Andrews had announced an $18 million funding package for the Latrobe Valley which would establish a health zone to improve health outcomes, create a regional strategy to rehabilitate the region’s three coalmines, and update regulations governing coalmines. ‘There is a big push to level the playing field between industry needs and community needs and to map out a future for the Latrobe Valley before the world dictates when it is finished with coal. ‘For the first time the community has had an opportunity to discuss the impacts the power industry has had on our lives and to discuss important global concerns that are arising and the impacts that these are having on us locally.’ Ms Lund said that recently Premier Daniel Andrews had announced an $18 million funding package for the Latrobe Valley which would establish a health zone to improve health outcomes, create a regional strategy to rehabilitate the region’s three coalmines, and update regulations governing coalmines. The community now had a greater engagement in its future and sought to be involved in government and industry discussions about diversifying the power industry and other issues affecting the Latrobe Valley.
Sharon McNulty, Director of Support Services, Monash Medical Centre and Louise Wright, registered nurse in theatre at Monash Medical Centre, presented on the cleaning method which uses microfibre and steam rather than chemicals to remove dirt and bacteria. Traditionally, cleaning in hospitals and aged care facilities has involved a two-step process of cleaning using detergent in water and heavy buckets and mops, followed by disinfecting surfaces with hypochlorite, Ms Wright told attendees. However, many strains of bacteria were developing resistance to chemicals, cleaning with this two-step process was timeconsuming and soft coverings such as carpets and drapes did not tolerate hypochlorite disinfection – the disinfectant used for hard surfaces. Monash Health wanted to introduce a cleaning method that was effective in reducing patient risk of acquiring multiple drug resistant organisms from hospital environments but was also more environmentally friendly and time-efficient. The microfibre and steam cleaning method was initially trialled in two sites. Steam, at 140 degrees Celcius, is used to dislodge
www.anmfvic.asn.au
dirt and other organic matter from surfaces, while themicrofibre, which is extremely light, combines two synthetic products which together are able to scrub off the organic matter and absorb it. Microfibre absorbs more than six times its weight in fluids, so uses far less water than cotton. As the steam emerges nearly dry, the health and safety risk of wet floors and injuries from lifting heavy buckets mops are eliminated. The cleaning technology has been gradually introduced to all sites of Monash Health – Monash Medical Centres at Clayton and Moorabbin, Casey Hospital, Dandenong Hospital and Cranbourne Integrated Care Centre – over the course of five years. Research on the new method has shown that the transmission of vancomycin-resistant enterococci, an antibiotic-resistant bacteria, has been intermittently eliminated since the introduction of steam and microfibre cleaning. There have been water savings of 90 per cent, a saving of $40,000 per year in chemical costs, a saving of $40,000 per year on dry-cleaning and a minimum $80,000 in WorkCover savings from injuries associated with traditional cleaning. June 2016
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Member profile – Susan McQueen Giving hope to those living with depression As an estimated one in six Australians develop severe depression at some stage in their life, chances are you have either experienced this debilitating condition, or know someone who has. Low mood; loss of interest in everyday activities; motor retardation, and impairment of concentration, sleep and appetite are just some of the symptoms of major depressive disorder that afflict sufferers. Fortunately for sufferers, registered nurse Susan McQueen and the rest of the team at the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre are able to offer transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS. Ms McQueen is a mental health nurse who has headed down the research pathway, and has been working at the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre since 2004. TMS is offered to those patients - an estimated 30 per cent – whose major depressive disorder has not responded to antidepressant medications, psychotherapy or other therapies. At the centre, Professor Paul Fitzgerald and his team, including Ms McQueen, have been conducting clinical trials of TMS for 15 years, assessing patients’ levels of depression and cognitive function before, during and after treatment. Unlike antidepressants and the other major treatment option for major depression electro convulsive therapy (ECT) - TMS has no negative side-effects, apart from the occasional headache post-treatment. ‘In fact many people report an improvement in their thinking, the clarity of their thinking particularly,’ Ms McQueen said. ‘Because there’s no anaesthetic involved, it’s non-invasive and people can get up after a treatment and essentially go about their business. There’s no effect on their capacity to drive or do anything.’ TMS has been tested since the mid-1990s and the technique has been approved in a number of countries, including the US. It involves a device known as a ‘coil’ being used to project a magnetic field which stimulates activity in the frontal cortex of the patient’s brain. Ms McQueen has treated hundreds of patients and remembers many patients whose recovery stories have touched her but some in particular stand out.
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June 2016
Susan McQueen
‘There was a man in his 50s who had had a very difficult life, a very hard life with a lot of family issues and he’d had a serious drinking problem. He’d struggled all his life, he was very isolated, poor education, no family supports, was unemployed,’ she said. ‘He came to us and I thought: “I’m not so sure we’re going to be able to help him… But he responded (to the treatment), he took up hobbies, he moved out of his flat and went to the country. He loved cars and started working on cars… he had a remarkable recovery. ‘There was another man who had ECT in the past, so he had been very unwell. He only had two or three treatments and his life was changed. ‘He hadn’t known not being depressed. After only a few treatments he could feel things differently, he could see things differently. He’s come back to us a few times and had top-ups but we haven’t heard from him for about two years so I assume he’s still well.’
curiosity about new treatments, good computer skills, a respect for the need for accurate data collection and the ability to connect with patients.
‘We need to work very closely with the patient and their carer and support people, and provide them with lots of reassurance, education and ongoing monitoring.’
While TMS has been approved for use in Australia, there is no funding available to provide treatment. It is not a Medicare-listed item, so is only available through clinical trials or as an inpatient treatment at private hospitals. Two applications for TMS to be funded through Medicare have failed. A patient is currently lobbying for TMS to be a Medicare-funded item and has a petition to federal Health Minister Sussan Ley for signing at change.org The trials of TMS being conducted at the centre are not aimed at ascertaining the treatment’s effectiveness, as it has been established that the treatment works for over 40 per cent of people and is helpful for more. But as a standard course of treatment is 30-minute treatments once per day for four to six weeks, the team is trialling accelerated treatment options. For nurses interested in pursuing a research career path, Ms McQueen said it was important to have sound clinical skills,
Ms McQueen will speak at the Australian Nurses and Midwives Conference 2016 on 8–9 September. Register before 30 July to receive a $60 discount off registration fees. Visit anmfvic.gov.au for more information and to register.
www.anmfvic.asn.au
ANMF (Vic Branch) Mental Health Conference Patient advocacy will be the focus of ANMF (Vic Branch)’s 2016 Mental Health Forum on 29 July. The forum, to be opened by Victoria’s Mental Health Minister Martin Foley features a number of speakers from organisations which advocate on patients’ behalf discussing how they interact with nurses.
The Mental Health Complaints Commissioner, Lynne Coulson Barr, will speak about how the commission interacts with nurses while going about its role of assisting Victorians resolve complaints about mental health services.
Speakers from advocacy organisations the Independent Mental Health Advocacy, the Office of the Public Advocate, the Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council, and the Mental Health Complaints Commission will address nurses at the conference.
The Department of Health and Human Services Chief Mental Health Nurse Anna Love will speak about advocacy as an integral part of mental health nursing.
Matthew Carroll, President of the Mental Health Tribunal, which was established under the new Mental Health Act 2014, will give forum attendees insights into trends that have emerged over the past year.
ANMF Assistant Secretary Pip Carew and the Department of Health and Human Services Chief Mental Health Nurse Anna Love
The tribunal was formed to determine whether criteria for compulsory mental health treatment set out in the Act applies to a person and to make treatment orders if the criteria apply.
The forum will also feature mental health nurses speaking about their role as advocates and experience of interacting with various advocacy agencies. The 2016 Mental Health Forum will take place at ANMF House, 540 Elizabeth St, Melbourne. Look for the forum in the events section of our website and register your attendance: anmfvic.asn.au
Strategies for fatigue avoidance Nurses and midwives at the ANMF (Vic Branch) Working hours, shifts and fatigue conference were told that nurses should have at least 11 hours break between shifts to avoid risky levels of fatigue. Dr Tracey Sletten from Monash University’s Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Services and Dr Mark Howard, Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health Department of Respiratory & Sleep Medicine presented rostering principles arising from research on alertness in the healthcare industry and facilitated a practical workshop on fatigue rostering. The alertness measurement and prediction research program aims to: • d evelop and verify tools to measure current alertness levels accurately • predict the risk of future critical lapses
Psychologist Michael Adeney
• intervene before poor alertness impairs productivity and safety.
nurses and personal care workers are more likely to move people manually than take time to get proper manual handling equipment.
Psychologist Michael Adeney (pictured) outlined personal strategies for preventing and managing fatigue, including ‘paying off’ sleep debts as soon as possible, monitoring fatigue symptoms such as head-nodding and clumsiness, and making sure your bedroom is pitch black for sleeping.
Ms Huynh said it was best to eliminate fatigue risk at its source, whatever that might be – for example, if the fatigue risk is rostering, rostering should be changed. But if a risk could not be eliminated, health facilities need to take a risk management approach to reduce fatigue-related risks.
Another tip from Mr Adeney for nurses and midwives working night shift was to have a short sleep of two hours after the last night shift, then sit in a room lit with daylight and have a longer sleep that night. This would help reset your circadian rhythm. Conference presenter WorkSafe Senior Ergonomist Bich Huynh told attendees that WorkSafe inspectors assess systems of work and whether they are causing fatigue, with consideration given to shiftwork hours (rostering), overtime and workload.
There are a number of online fatigue assessment tools available, including the FAID fatigue assessment tool, which was developed using results of research undertaken by Professor Drew Dawson and Dr Adam Fletcher at the University of South Australia’s Centre for Sleep Research.
Ms Huynh warned that manual handling injuries were more likely to occur near the end of a shift when physical capacity is reduced and
The next Working hours, shifts and fatigue conference will take place on Thursday 18 August. Register at anmfvic.asn.au
www.anmfvic.asn.au
WorkSafe’s Fatigue prevention in the workplace publication is another useful resource which outlined a risk management approach to fatigue, Ms Huynh said.
June 2016
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Job Representative training program Introduction to your union and your role
Keeping it organised
This is a single day program aimed at new Job Representatives but it is also a great refresher for Job Representatives who last attended training more than three years ago.
This new program has been designed to follow on from 2015’s workplace organising programs.
The program provides important information and basic guidance to get you started in the ANMF Job Representative role including sessions and information about the ANMF structure and functions, the key responsibilities of the Job Representative, basic industrial relations information as well as providing you with some ANMF resources to take back to your workplace. Programs located in Melbourne are specifically designed to accommodate metropolitan Job Representatives. Regional Job Representatives must register for the introductory course being delivered in your area. This ensures you have an opportunity to meet other new Job Representatives from your own area as well as working with your organiser.
Course dates 2016 Metro: 6 July, 10 August, 6 September, 12 October Regional: 27 July – Wangaratta 24 August – Echuca 28 September – Ballarat 26 October – Bendigo
The focus of this training for public sector is organising around the EBA and will include sessions assessing progress against last year’s organising plan and understanding and enforcing the key elements of the EBA. For other sectors, the program will look at getting and keeping membership support and involvement, organising around workplace issues and maintaining a strong ANMF presence in the workplace. As with the 2015 program, these are organiser and workplace/area specific programs giving you an opportunity to work directly with your organiser and other Job Representatives from your workplace. We encourage you to register as soon as possible to provide sufficient notice to be taken off the roster to access paid union training leave.
Register online Questions about the process for becoming a Job Representative, a nomination or current Job Representative status should be directed to your organiser at ANMF.
Remember you will need to register for your workplace/organiser-specific program.
Course dates 2016 Metro: 2–4 August John Mills 14–15 September Gail Were 5–6 October Sandra Oakley 9–10 November Lisa Stingel 30 Nov–1 December Cynthia Salmons and Christian Sanderson Regional: 28 July Alison Kairns 25 August Christine Steiner 29 September Allan Townsend 27 October Loretta Marchesi
For registrations or information about any of this training you can: • Go to the website at anmfvic.asn.au •P hone 03 9275 9333 or 1800 133 353 (for regional reps) and ask for Job Rep training • Email jrt@anmfvic.asn.au
OHS courses
HSR Initial OHS Training Course (WorkSafe approved)
HSR Refresher OHS Training Course (WorkSafe approved)
Nurses, midwives and personal care workers are exposed to many hazards including manual handling, violence and aggression, bullying and harassment, stress, shiftwork, hazardous substances and infectious diseases.
This course relates specifically to health and aged care workplaces, with a strong focus on issues and hazards relevant to nursing and midwifery, and is designed to equip elected HSRs and Deputy HSRs with an understanding of the OHS regulatory framework. It is also designed to provide participants with the skills required to implement effective hazard control strategies in the workplace.
This one-day refresher course relates specifically to health and aged care workplaces, with a strong focus on issues and hazards relevant to nursing and midwifery. It is designed to refresh HSRs’ knowledge and understanding of the OHS regulatory framework. It is also designed to provide the skills required to implement effective hazard control strategies in the workplace.
The HSRs are the highly dedicated representatives who work to maintain a safe and professional workplace. Become an HSR or upgrade your HSR skills at one of our courses listed below. Under Section 67 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, HSRs and Deputy HSRs, after being elected, are entitled to attend a five-day course. The course must be WorkSafe approved and chosen by the HSR in consultation with their employer. The HSR is entitled to time off work with pay and the costs associated with attendance at the course paid by the employer. Under OHS legislation and guidelines, employers must not obstruct or prevent Health and Safety Representatives from attending an approved course. 14
June 2016
2016 course dates: 16-17 June 10-12, 25-26 August 9-11, 24-25 November Time: 9am – 5pm each day Venue: Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House, 540 Elizabeth St, Melb Cost: $750 (payable by employer). Register online: anmfvic.asn.au/hsr-training
Metropolitan courses 2016: 7 July, 13 October Time: 9am – 5pm Venue: Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House, 540 Elizabeth St, Melb Cost: $250 (payable by employer). Register online: anmfvic.asn.au/hsr-training Regional courses 2016: Warrnambool - 28 July Ballarat - 27 October
www.anmfvic.asn.au
ANMF (Vic Branch) monthly membership fees will increase 2.5% from July 1
Membership category
Monthly increase
RN midwife full time
$1.24
RN midwife part time
$0.92
ANMF (Vic Branch) membership fees will increase from 1 July 2016 for the 2016/17 financial year.
Enrolled nurse full time
$0.92
Enrolled nurse part time
$0.56
Assistant in nursing full time/DSNA
$0.92
Assistant in nursing part time
$0.56
Student working / direct entry midwife working as AIN/PCW full time
$0.92
Full-time financial members receive $400 in annual credit to use for online CPD and access to affordable face-to-face quality education and training.
Student working / direct entry midwife working as AIN/PCW part time
$0.56
Nurse / midwife academic (cash)
$0.49
Membership fees are tax deductible as a work-related expense. Most ANMF members should receive back at least 30 per cent of their fees paid in any financial year in their tax return. A full schedule of the 2016-2017 membership fees is available by calling the membership department on 9275 9333 or regional toll free on 1800 133 353 or visiting www.anmfvic.asn.au
Nurse / midwife academic (debit)
$0.37
Associate / maternity leave
$0.18
Student nurse (not working as a nurse)
$0.83
Dental nurse
$0.44
Community care aide
$0.44
Special Interest Groups
Injured Nurses’ Support Group
Fees will increase by 2.5 per cent. The increase will enable ANMF to continue to provide members with professional indemnity insurance, access to legal, professional and industrial support, advice and representation as well as quality education, both face to face and online, at a reduced cost.
Visit anmfvic.asn.au/interest-groups for all upcoming ANMF (Vic Branch) Special Interest Group news, events and meetings. Advance Care Planning SIG
Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
Executive Committee Meeting Thursday 4 August, 2pm – 4pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Anne Marie Fabri, Secretary email: annemarie.fabri@nh.org.au Phone: 9495 3235
ANZANAC (HIV Nursing SIG) Inq:
Milena Pinamonti anzanac.vic@gmail.com or 0466 280 445
CoNSA Vic/Tas SIG Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
General Committee Meeting Thursday 11 August, 6pm – 9pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Christine Sumper nfcv.sec@gmail.com
Day Surgery SIG Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
State Conference Saturday 20 August, 8.30am – 4pm Flemington Chris Guidotti chris_guidotti@y7mail.com
Diabetes Nurse Educators SIG Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
Members meeting Wednesday 26 October, 5.30pm – 8pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Catherine Wallace-Wilkinson positivehealth@bigpond.com 0411 557 631
www.anmfvic.asn.au
Topic: When: Where: Inq:
Members meeting Tuesday 19 July, 11am – 12.30pm Level 3 Boardroom, ANMF House Annie Rutter 1300 760 602
Immunisation Nurses SIG When: Where: Inq:
Thursday 1 September, 6pm – 10pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House INSIG administration,
membership@immunisationnursesvic.org.au
Medical Imaging Nurses Assoc Topic: When: Where: Inq:
Members workshop Saturday 16 July St Vincent's Hospital (Melbourne, 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy) Deborah Shears deborah.shears@i-med.com.au
Mental Health Nurses SIG Inq:
Carole de Greenlaw records@anmfvic.asn.au
Orthopaedic Nurses Assoc Topic: When: Where: Inq:
Professional Development Day Friday 5 August, 8am – 6pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Cheryl Dingey 9345 7027 Meinir Griffiths 9342 8417 onavic@anmfvic.asn.au
Palliative Care SIG Inq:
Siobhan Clark siobhanclark@ymail.com
Pre-admission Nurses Group Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
PaNA Professional Day Saturday 23 July , 8am – 1pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Kate Hussey k.hussey@healthscope.com.au
Safe Patient Handling Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
Members forum Friday 2 September, 9.30am – 2pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Stephen Morley smorley@bendigohealth.org.au
Vic Assoc of Research Nurses Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
Professional Development Day Friday 21 October, 8am – 4.30pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Lesley Poulton lesley.poulton@monash.edu
Vic Assoc Of Maternal & Child Health Nurses Inq:
Stephen Morley smorley@bendigohealth.org.au
Vic Midwifery Homecare SIG Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
Members meeting Wednesday 24 August, 10.30am – 12.30pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Ingrid Ridler IRidler@mercy.com.au
Vic Perioperative Nurses’ Group Inq:
enquiries@vpng.org.au or 1300 721 169
Victorian School Nurses Topic: When: Venue: Inq:
Members meeting Tuesday 26 July, 6pm – 9pm Carson Conference Centre, ANMF House Gina Harrex 0401 717 352
Vic Urological Nurses Society Inq:
vunssecretary@gmail.com
ANMF House is located at 540 Elizabeth St, Melbourne
June 2016
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Education calendar June 2016 ALL
Clinical supervision for role development training – for supervisors of clinical supervision Course code: 1993 28, 29, 30 June 2016, 11, 12, 13 October 2016 and 9, 10 Feb 2017 8.45am (for 9.00am start) – 4.30pm Facilitators Julie Skinner and Sue Harvey This new course provides the skills and techniques to facilitate quality staff development sessions that encourage staff to develop professional practice and self-management. The eight-day training is spread over three workshops (3 days + 3 days + 2 days) with project work.
Course cost: $2,800 through a deposit and 3 instalments aligned with each workshop. For more information visit http://goo.gl/ab61gm
July 2016 Law and ethics for registered and enrolled nurses
RN EN M
CPD: 12 hours, course code: 2050 8 and 15 July 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Jenny Poulter Law and ethics directly impacts nursing and midwifery practice. This seminar is designed to refresh nurses' understanding of the fundamentals of the legislation that impacts on nursing practice.
Member $360, Non-member $420, Job Rep or SIG member $320 ALL
The importance of documenting nursing care within the aged care environment CPD: 6 hours, course code: 1976 5 July 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Margaret Lang Understanding the significance of accurate documentation in Aged Care, critical to practice. The seminar also includes a discussion on the ACFI and Aged Care Accreditation Standards and the principles of an effective handover.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170
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June 2016
August 2016 RN Medication administration –
principles and practice revisited CPD: 12 hours, course code: 2158 2 and 9 August 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Sue Pleunik This two-day workshop is designed to update the registered nurses' skills in medication administration. Topics include administration via all five routes, drug calculations and managing IV pumps, syringe drivers and PCA systems.
Member $360, Non-member $420, Job Rep or SIG member $320 RN EN
Advanced skills for dementia care CPD: 6 hours, course code: 1981 3 August 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Dr. Rosalie Hudson This workshop assists nurses to increase their knowledge, skills and confidence to offer people with dementia (in any setting) best practice care, emphasising end-of-life care and appropriate symptom management.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170 RN Adult ALS certification:
2-day program CPD: 12 hours, course code: 2025 3 and 10 August 2016 9am-5pm Presenter ACCCN accredited trainers ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre is thrilled to work in partnership with the Australian College of Critical Care Nurses to deliver the ACCCN accredited ALS course. This course is most suitable for those with little or no experience/knowledge of ALS or those wanting a comprehensive update. The program is aimed at nurses who are required to provide Adult Basic and Advanced Life Support in a clinical setting and includes theoretical lectures, clinical skill stations and scenarios. A total of 16 CPD hours are assigned to this program (based on 12 hours on site and 4 hours prior reading).
Please note: at the time of print the August course has one registration available. ANMF/ACCCN member $360, Non-member $460
Course key ALL
RN EN M
Course available to all nurses, midwives, PCAs and AINs Course available to registered nurses Course available to enrolled nurses Course available to midwives
RN Foundations of pharmacology
and medication administration for registered nurses CPD: 24 hours, course code: 2152 4, 11, 18, 25 August 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Jennifer Irwin This four day course revises the underpinning knowledge of pharmacology and medication administration for registered nurses. Topics include pharmacology and adverse drug reactions. Common medications will be revised using a systems approach.
Member $650, Non-member $750, Job Rep or SIG member $600 RN EN
Assessment skills in the acute setting CPD: 6 hours, course code: 2030 4 August 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Kate Potter Would you like to update your knowledge and skills in patient assessment? The emphasis of this seminar is on the accurate and timely assessment of patients in the acute setting with strategies to recognise and manage the deteriorating patient.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170 RN EN
Delirium and depression in the older person CPD: 6 hours, course code: 1983 10 August 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Dr. Rosalie Hudson When delirium and/or depression are suspected in an older person, the symptoms are often compounded by dementia. This workshop will empower nurses to identify symptoms that can be effectively treated.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170
www.anmfvic.asn.au
RN M
IV cannulation for registered nurses and midwives CPD: 6 hours, course code: 2035 11 August 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Kate Potter This seminar will focus on the process and procedure for inserting peripheral IV in the adult patient and includes identification of appropriate equipment, specific cannulation techniques. Participant practice will be conducted utilising manikin simulation.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170 ALL
Be informed about Hepatitis B
CPD: 3 hours, course code: 2130 16 August 2016 9.30am-12.30pm Presenter Gabrielle Bennett, Victorian Viral Hepatitis Educator Without access to care, up to 25% of people living with hepatitis B will develop advanced liver disease and/or liver cancer. Learn more about how our health services can improve and increase access to hepatitis B care including diagnosis, treatment and monitoring.
Member $110, Non-member $180, Job Rep or SIG member $100 RN EN
ACFI for registered and enrolled nurses CPD: 6 hours, course code: 1956 16 August 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Margaret Lang Any nurse working in aged care will encounter ACFI and this seminar explores all ACFI business rules, a comprehensive breakdown of the 12 ACFI questions and a practical review of compiling and completing an ACFI appraisal pack.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170 ALL
The ups and downs of male incontinence CPD: 4 hours, course code: 2072 24 August 2016 9am-1pm Presenter, Lisa Wragg, Continence Foundation of Australia, Victorian Branch Developing incontinence is extremely disruptive to patient wellbeing and health outcomes. The ups and downs of male incontinence is designed to help nurses better understand the anatomy and physiology of the
male patient and discuss common pathology and surgical interventions that cause incontinence. The continence management strategies will cover nursing interventions, pelvic floor exercise therapy, psychosocial issues, commonly used gadgets and gizmos and how to access financial assistance.
Member $110, Non-member $180, Job Rep or SIG member $100 EN Strengthening EN medication
practice CPD: 6 hours, course code: 2149 30 August 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Jennifer Irwin This seminar will assist enrolled nurses to further develop and apply their skills and knowledge in the nursing practice area of medications and aims to build upon skills and knowledge attained through completion of NMBA approved enrolled nurse medication administration training and work practice.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170
September 2016 RN Adult advanced life support:
1 day recertification CPD: 10 hours (6 hours training and 4 hours self-directed learning), course code: 2289 6 September 2016 9am-4pm Presented by Australian College of Critical Care Nurses certified ALS trainers This one day recertification is suitable for those working in a critical care environment and/or who have previously attended an ALS course and require an annual update. ACCCN recommends annual recertification in ALS and offers this one-day theoretical and practical adult ALS recertification program for healthcare professionals. The content covered is the same as the 2-day course above but at a faster pace, so prior knowledge of ALS is required. The morning is a review of ALS content with the opportunity to apply those concepts in practice scenarios. The theoretical and scenario training for recertification will follow in the afternoon.
Member $210, Non-member $310
RN EN Contemporary wound
management CPD: 12 hours, course code: 2204 7 and 14 September 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenters Julie Baulch and Anne Bryant Wound management changes regularly. During this course you will review the anatomy and physiology of wound healing, importance of health assessment and wound diagnosis and explore a range of wound management practices.
Member $360, Non-member $420, Job Rep or SIG member $320 RN EN
Respiratory management – advanced care CPD: 6 hours, course code: 2038 8 September 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Kate Potter Suitable for registered nurses working with patients who require more advanced respiratory interventions. The sessions include audio-visual and practical training aids, enabling participants to become more familiar with the associated equipment.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170 M When do you change your
practice based on what you read? CPD: 3 hours, course code: 2066 14 September 2016 9am-12pm Presenter Dr Wendy Pollock Midwives are expected to implement ‘evidence-based practice’. This session will cover where to get up-to-date evidence-based information, how to evaluate the ‘evidence’ and what to consider in applying it to your own practice.
Member $110, Non-member $180, Job Rep or SIG member $100 ALL
Nursing the balance
CPD: 6 hours, course code: 2169 14 September 2016 9.30pm-4.30pm Presenter Jane Robotham This seminar equips participants with simple tools enabling them to care for themselves, despite daily pressures, so they can continue to care for others through clarity of mind, enjoyment in the moment and optimal energy. The workshop materials offering a variety of guided techniques which can be used again to help ongoing self-care.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170
www.anmfvic.asn.au
June 2016
17
RN EN
Recognising and responding to clinical deterioration CPD: 6 hours, course code: 1966 20 September 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Simon Plapp, ICU educator and President ACCCN (Vic Branch) Important to NSQHS Standard 9: Recognising and responding to clinical deterioration in acute health care, this workshop provides an important perspective on patient assessment. Through case studies the course focuses on: • who is at risk • the signs and symptoms that should “worry” you • how to manage care in a timely and effective manner.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170 RN EN Venipuncture, conducting
a 12-lead ECG and contemporary pathology collection CPD: 6 hours, course code: 2041 22 September 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Kate Potter This workshop is a comprehensive program relating to venipuncture techniques and conducting a 12-lead electrocardiogram. A wide range of practical training aids for blood collection are provided and participants undertake practice of the relevant techniques under guided supervision. Great for nurses who are required to perform phlebotomy and undertake 12-lead ECG recording as part of their role.
ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre accredited courses (RTOID 22609) ALL
HLTAID003 Provide first aid
CPD: 12 hours, course code: 2056 20 and 27 October 2016 9.00am–4.30pm Presenter Jenny Poulter Renewing first aid qualifications is an essential part of professional development for many nurses and midwives. ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre offers members nationally recognised training delivered by experienced nurse trainers. These courses fill fast so enrol as early as possible.
Member $360, Non-member $420, Job Rep/ANMF SIG member $320 ALL
HLTAID001 Provide cardio pulmonary resuscitation CPD: 3 hours, course code: 2161 23 November 2016 9am–noon Renewing CPR qualifications is an essential part of professional development for many nurses and midwives. ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre offers members nationally recognised training delivered by experienced nurse trainers. These courses fill fast so enrol as early as possible.
Member $110, Non-member $180, Job Rep or ANMF SIG member $100
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170
ALL
Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40110) Course 3, course code: 2075 5, 12, 19, 26 August; 2, 9, 15, 16, 23, 30 September; 7, 14, 21, 28 October; 4 November 2016 9am–5pm Course 4, course code: 2096 5, 6, 10, 19, 26 October; 2, 7, 8, 16, 23, 30 November; 5, 12, 6, 12, 13 December 2016 9am–5pm The TAE40110 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment course focuses on the skills required to deliver training and assess competence in the participants’ own industry areas. It is the benchmark qualification (along with subject matter expertise) for trainers and assessors in the VET sector. The course is designed for people who are currently working in a training or assessment role, or where part of their job requires training and assessment. Comprising 10 units delivered over 15 days, this course focuses on the skills required to deliver training and assess competence in the participants’ own industry areas. This course includes the Language, Literacy and Numeracy unit recently added to this qualification.
Cost $2100 which covers tuition fees, assessments and learning resources and is paid in three instalments throughout the course. Please enrol online. Payment plan: Deposit $900 – on enrolment Instalment 1 $600 – week 6 Instalment 2 $600 – week 12 This is a nationally recognised qualification delivered by the ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre RTOID 22609
RN EN
Management of chronic/ persistent pain in older people CPD: 6 hours, course code: 2041 28 September 2016 9.30am-4.30pm Presenter Dr. Rosalie Hudson Many older people needing nursing care suffer from one or more serious, chronic illnesses that are characterised by pain. This seminar focuses on advanced skills development for nurses caring for older people in any setting who suffer from chronic/ persistent pain.
Member $180, Non-member $215, Job Rep or SIG member $170
18
June 2016
Need more CPD hours for your registration? Don’t forget that as a full Victorian ANMF member you have $400 credit you can still use for CPD online modules, to gain CPD hours for your registration. If you haven’t already done so, it’s easy to access the ANMF (Vic Branch) eLearning on the internet at cpd.anmfvic.asn.au to start using your $400. Alternatively, you can visit the ANMF (Vic Branch) website at anmfvic.asn.au and click on ‘CPD Portal'.
This credit is for online modules only, but you can book for seminars or workshops on this site too. Make sure your CPD choices are relevant for your practice. If you have questions you can contact the NMBA or view their guidelines for CPD at http://bit.ly/NMBAguidelines What modules are you going to choose with your $400 credit?
www.anmfvic.asn.au
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Course registration form
Register online at anmfvic.asn.au/education or complete this form and return to the ANMF education centre.
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Venue The ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre, ANMF (Vic Branch) Registered Training Organisation (RTO ID: 22609), nursing laboratory and library are located near the Melbourne CBD at ANMF House, 540 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne.
Upcoming course program Visit anmfvic.asn.au/education for information about these and upcoming courses.
Continuing professional development (CPD) All nurses and midwives are required to undertake 20 hours of continuing professional development each year as part of the requirements to re-register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. For information visit nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au
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Significant discounts on many Education Centre courses (excluding government-funded courses) are available to ANMF members, Job Reps and ANMF Special Interest Group members. Courses may be tax deductible. Ask your tax consultant for advice.
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Cardholder name Cardholder signature Please forward fully completed registration form and payment: ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre Box 12600 A’Beckett Street Post Office Melbourne Vic 8006 OR scan and email to education@anmfvic.asn.au Once payment is received a receipt will be posted to you. Please make cheques payable to ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre. Disclaimer
ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre (ABN No 1716 9548 707) will endeavour to ensure that the speakers and content for this seminar proceed as advertised. However, unexpected circumstances may necessitate the utilisation of a replacement speaker(s). ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre disclaims any liability for any errors/omissions in terms of information provided at this educational event.
Refunds and cancellations
The decision to proceed with or reschedule a seminar is based on the number of participants registered, however if ANMF (Vic Branch) Education Centre cancels a session you will receive a full refund. If you cancel your registration the following will apply: a) Over seven days notification, full refund (less 10 per cent administrative fee) b) Less than seven days notification no refund will apply
Call ANMF on 9275 9333 to get your copy of the Workplace Bullying Guide or download it from the website: anmfvic.asn.au
Don’t ignore it. Act early. Report it. Get advice. Use the ANMF Workplace Bullying Guide to evaluate: • Is it bullying or reasonable management action? • Is it bullying or low level workplace conflict? • Is it bullying or a single incident of negative behaviour?
Australian Nursing & Midwifery Federation (Victorian Branch) For more information call 03 9275 9333 Facebook: www.facebook.com/RespectOurWork Website: www.anmfvic.asn.au Twitter: @anmfvicbranch