Bulletin 5 - negotiations update - issue 26 October 2026

As you are aware, on 6 August 2026, I outlined an offer for a new agreement that included a comprehensive package of contemporary improvements aimed at supporting and recognising the vital contribution of our nurses and midwives.  That offer detailed in bulletin 4, was not endorsed by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) or the NPAA bargaining representatives.

I continue to believe that the offer represented a fair and balanced package. It included meaningful improvements to employment conditions, strengthened job security, and recognised the critical role nurses and midwives play in delivering high-quality healthcare services across the Northern Territory.  However, given the response to my initial offer, and to demonstrate genuine commitment to consider further outstanding matters, my office along with representatives from Department of Health, have been meeting with the union and delegates to discuss further improvements.

These discussions have reinforced the importance of recognising the expertise and contribution of our nurses and midwives. They have also highlighted opportunities to further enhance professional development provisions and strengthen allowances that recognise specific skills, responsibilities and duties.

I know that retaining experienced nurses and midwives within the Northern Territory health system is vital, and to support this objective, I am considering a range of measures that are practical, affordable and sustainable.

It remains my commitment to respond genuinely with improvements that demonstrate we have listened to key matters, and we remain at the negotiating table to continue those discussions.

I have also been clear in these discussions, that I am bound by the NTPS Wages Policy in these negotiations. The offer made was above Wages Policy to position nurses and midwives competitively nationally, and ranked second in the country at the commencement of the agreement. It also included a number of other improvements to leave and allowances and my office will continue to negotiate in good faith to settle a package of further improvements that can be taken to employees to have their say and vote on a new agreement.

More information

Regular updates in relation to the bargaining process will be posted to the this website.  Information on bargaining in general can be obtained on the Fair Work Commissioner website or you can call their information line on 1300 799 675.

Nicole Hurwood
Commissioner for Public Employment
26 October 2026