72425 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

72425 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: How does the government plan to address the growing exodus of New Zealand nurses to Australia, as reflected in comments by New Zealand Nurses Organisation Chief Executive Paul Goulter, and what targeted measures, if any, are being considered to improve retention in critical healthcare roles?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: I am advised that Health New Zealand is implementing a range of initiatives to help ensure our nursing workforce find positions within New Zealand. I am further informed that there also continues to be a focus on retention of New Zealand’s skilled professionals. I refer the Member to Written Parliamentary Question 54506 (2024). Health NZ is currently finalising the Health Workforce Plan which builds on the progress of initiatives listed in the previous workforce plan, and will set the direction for a more sustainable health care system for our workforce.