A major investment in Australia’s nursing and midwifery workforce is set to reshape training opportunities nationwide. The Albanese Labor Government has announced a $28 million grant to establish a dedicated world-class facility at Melbourne’s Epworth Hospital, creating new pathways for staff development.
The Epworth Medical Foundation’s Brookes Academy will use the funding to build a multi-story education space equipped with cutting-edge digital technology, including a Blended Learning Simulation Suite (BLISS). Nurses and midwives from all over Australia, including rural and remote regions, will benefit from immersive training modules delivered through these advanced platforms.
Since launching in May 2023, more than 800 staff have already started programs at the Academy. Ged Kearney MP, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, welcomed the expansion of resources for professional growth, describing nurses and midwives as “the backbone of our healthcare system.”
“I am so proud to be part of the Albanese Labor Government who recognise that nurses and midwives are the backbone of our healthcare system and have taken a reform approach towards nursing and midwifery,” Kearney said.
“As a former nurse, I know the impact further study and training can have on enhancing leadership and clinical skills. This Academy will not only develop our nursing and midwifery workforce, but also deliver improved care for all Australians across the country.”
This announcement comes alongside new and increased Medicare rebates, designed to better support nurses and midwives. Among the changes is a $56.5 million commitment starting 1 March 2025, which introduces new rebates for longer, more complex prenatal and postnatal appointments. The Government hopes these measures will encourage more midwives to offer continuity of care, a model proven especially beneficial for women in rural and regional settings.
“No matter where you live, how much money you have, or what stage of life you’re at, you deserve the best possible healthcare. Investing in nurses and midwives is just one of the ways the Albanese Labor Government is strengthening Medicare to ensure this reality,” Kearney said.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
