NPAA Calls for Action on Hospital Parking Costs Impacting Nurses and Midwives

The Nurses Professional Association of Australia (NPAA) has spoken out against what it describes as excessive hospital parking costs, following reports that some Sunshine Coast nurses and midwives are turning down extra shifts due to the financial burden of parking fees.

According to reports, full-time healthcare workers at Sunshine Coast University Hospital can pay more than $100 per fortnight for parking, adding up to approximately $2,600 per year.

NPAA President Kara Thomas said the issue goes beyond cost alone, highlighting concerns about fairness, workforce retention, and access to safe transport options for healthcare workers.

"Frontline nurses and midwives are being treated like a revenue stream, forced to pay just to come to work. That's not just unfair, it's indefensible."

Ms Thomas said many nurses have little choice but to pay for parking, particularly those working afternoon, night, and extended shifts.

"Public transport isn't a safe or realistic option for many afternoon and night shift workers, and street parking is either unavailable or unsafe."

The NPAA has raised concerns that increasing workplace costs are placing additional pressure on a workforce already facing significant staffing challenges. Reports indicate some nurses and midwives are declining additional shifts because of the associated parking expenses.

Kara Thomas said this should serve as a warning sign for health services and decision-makers.

"When nurses are saying no to shifts, the system is already failing."

The NPAA believes healthcare workers should not be financially disadvantaged simply for attending work and will continue advocating for practical solutions that support nurses and midwives both inside and outside the workplace.

As cost-of-living pressures continue to affect healthcare workers across Australia, the NPAA remains committed to ensuring members' voices are heard and their concerns are represented at every level.