June 28th, 2026More Nurses With Stronger Nurse-To-Patient Ratios
The state government will deliver more nurses in more hospitals by strengthening nurse-to-patient ratios.
Stronger nurse-to-patient ratios
Legislation will be introduced this term to further strengthen nurse-to-patient ratios.
It will add an additional 253 full time equivalent nursing positions to our world-class health system.
The amendments to the Safe Patient Care Act are backed by a $109.7 million investment.
The legislation will reclassify 26 hospitals, including 17 in rural and regional Victoria, to a higher level.
Where they will go
This change will enshrine in law an increase in required staffing levels – reflecting the increasing demand.
26 hospitals, including 17 in rural and regional Victoria, will see a boost in staff across general medical and surgical wards, EDs and ICUs. They are:
- Maryborough
- Maroondah Hospital
- Mercy Women
- Royal Women’s Hospital
- Werribee Mercy
- Angliss
- Rosebud
- Royal Victorian Eye & Ear Hospital
- Victorian Heart Hospital
- Sandringham
- Ballarat Base Hospital
- Bendigo Health
- Latrobe Regional Hospital
- Shepparton
- Bairnsdale
- Echuca
- Sale
- Swan Hill
- West Gippsland
- Wimmera
- Wodonga
- Wonthaggi
- Ararat
- Colac
- Wangaratta
- Hamilton
Stronger staffing ratios mean better, safer care for Victorians when and where they need it most.
It also means less pressure on our hardworking nurses, preventing burnout so we can retain the workforce.
The additional roles will also create more opportunities for graduate and early career nurses.
