NSWNMA Assistant General Secretary Michael Whaites pointed out that despite acknowledging pay gaps causing a recruitment crisis, the government has not presented a better offer after four months of negotiations.

General Secretary Shaye Candish has claimed that the state government has shown little willingness to negotiate, which has led to the decision to strike.

Health Minister Ryan Park expressed concern about the impact of the strike on patients, particularly those awaiting elective surgeries.

Despite the Industrial Relations Commission's recommendation for a 3 percent interim wage increase, the union rejected this offer, insisting on more substantial pay increases.

Park stated that the government would only accept backpay if the union agrees to the commission's recommendations and cancels the strike.

In response to the ongoing negotiations, Health Minister Ryan Park had offered a three percent interim wage increase and back-pay if nurses agreed to halt the industrial action.

The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) is demanding a 15 percent pay rise, as nurses in the state are currently the lowest paid in Australia.

While the government has proposed a three-year pay rise of 10.5% for public sector workers, including nurses, the union argues this is insufficient compared to their demands.

The upcoming strike is expected to involve thousands of nurses rallying on Macquarie Street in Sydney, similar to a previous action that resulted in the cancellation of over 500 elective surgeries.

Nurses and midwives in New South Wales (NSW) are set to strike for 24 hours next week, starting at 7am on Tuesday, due to failed negotiations with the state government.

Candish also emphasized that hospitals are in crisis, with many nurses leaving for better pay in other states, highlighting the need for fair compensation.

During the strike, only minimal and life-preserving nursing staff will remain on duty in public hospitals and health services.