The Registered and Enrolled Nurses Enterprise Agreement is a crucial agreement that regulates the working conditions, pay rates, and benefits of nurses across Australia. Negotiated between the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) and various healthcare employers, this agreement outlines the terms and conditions of employment for registered and enrolled nurses.

The most recent Registered and Enrolled Nurses Enterprise Agreement was signed in 2017 and is currently in effect. This agreement covers a variety of topics, including minimum wage rates, penalty rates, annual leave entitlements, and shift allowances.

One of the key components of this enterprise agreement is the minimum wage rates for nurses. Under the 2017 agreement, registered and enrolled nurses receive a base hourly rate of $30.6413. This rate increases depending on factors such as years of experience and additional qualifications.

Penalty rates are also a significant component of the agreement. Nurses who work night shifts, weekends, or public holidays receive penalty rates on top of their base wage. Under the 2017 agreement, nurses receive an additional 10% for working Saturdays, 25% for working Sundays, and up to 225% for working on public holidays.

Annual leave entitlements are another critical aspect of the agreement. Nurses are entitled to four weeks of paid annual leave each year, with an additional week of leave after ten years of service. Nurses may also accumulate up to eight weeks of long service leave after completing ten years of service.

In addition to the above, the Registered and Enrolled Nurses Enterprise Agreement covers a wide range of other conditions, including maternity leave, sick leave, and compassionate leave. It also outlines the process for resolving disputes between nurses and their employers.

Overall, the 2017 Registered and Enrolled Nurses Enterprise Agreement plays a vital role in regulating the working conditions of nurses across Australia. By ensuring that nurses receive fair pay rates, penalty rates, and entitlements, this agreement helps to attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals. Employers who comply with the agreement can also benefit from a stable and satisfied workforce, leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of care.