Better accommodation attracting nurses to Mid-West

23/2/00
New staff accommodation at Morawa Health Service was officially opened today by Health Minister John Day.
Mr Day said the new accommodation was part of an ongoing effort by the State Government to recruit and retain staff in rural areas.
Since the completion late last year, the $376,000 duplex has already been credited with attracting two registered nurses to Morawa and Districts Health Service.
"For the first time since 1997 there is a full complement of nursing staff available at Morawa Hospital, without hiring agency staff," Mr Day said.
"The duplex, which was funded by the Health Department of Western Australia and built by local builders Perum Building and Construction, has three bedrooms to allow a greater flexibility in recruitment and retention.
"One half of the duplex is furnished, but the other half remains unfurnished, giving an opportunity to attract a family to the area."
Mr Day said the Morawa and Districts Health Service was taking positive steps towards the future by listening at a grassroots level to what nurses required for their careers.
"The recent EBA for registered nurses negotiated a retention allowance of $1,200 for nurses who stay in the Mid-West region for more than 18 months," he said.
"This has proven very popular and successful, as it allows for flexibility in working arrangements.
"We are finding that many nurses enjoy working throughout the region and this is aided both through the new agreement and the new accommodation."
Media contact: Caroline Lacy 9213 6600