Orhan Karakaya, who has been dealing with ulcerative colitis throughout his adult life, joined a rally outside Westmead Hospital to support doctors who were taking industrial action. This was the first of three days during which public sector doctors in New South Wales were protesting over pay disputes, claiming they have the lowest wages and most challenging working conditions in the country. Karakaya emphasized the importance of doctors being both respected and compensated fairly.

The Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation confirmed that patient safety would not be compromised during the strikes, with emergency services and critical care units remaining operational. They highlighted their demand for safer working hours, adequate rest between shifts, and proper staffing to reduce wait times in emergency departments.

Dr. Lucy Bates, a uro-gynoclogist, explained that striking is crucial for achieving safe working hours and for retaining good staff within the health system, as she and many others are experiencing burnout due to unsustainable shifts that keep them away from their families.

The doctors are also asking for a 30% pay increase to bring their wages in line with those in other states. In contrast, the Minns government has offered a 10.5% increase over three years. According to the union, the strike may defy orders from the Industrial Relations Commission, which asked them to refrain from such action. Doctors are calling for the government to take a more meaningful approach to negotiations for better award reform and working conditions.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/apr/08/with-a-drip-in-his-arm-this-patient-came-out-of-a-sydney-hospital-to-support-striking-doctors