The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) has announced the appointment of Ms Shaye Candish as Assistant General Secretary and Branch Assistant Secretary of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation NSW Branch, with effect from today.
A registered nurse specialising in emergency care, Shaye Candish joined the NSWNMA as an Organiser within the public health sector team in 2013, before she quickly rose to the role of Lead Organiser. Contributing regularly to senior leadership, Shaye later became a Manager of the aged care and private health sector team.
In welcoming her to the new role, NSWNMA General Secretary, Brett Holmes, highlighted Shaye’s passion and advocacy for the nursing and midwifery professions, and the broader union movement.
“Shaye’s knowledge and skills, coupled with her engaging personal approach, will allow her to expand as an exceptional advocate for our members, as well as nurses and midwives globally,” said Mr Holmes.
“Together, we will continue to pursue improvements for all nurses and midwives, including nurse-to-patient ratios across all sectors, improved work health and safety outcomes, and better working lives for nurses and midwives.
“On behalf of our 73,000-strong membership, I congratulate Shaye on her appointment to the Assistant General Secretary position, as we take this next step in our union’s journey.”
Mr Holmes also farewelled his former leadership partner, Judith Kiejda, the NSWNMA’s Assistant General Secretary of the past 19 years, who began at the union as an Organiser in 1994.
“Judith contributed to major transformations of our Association over the years and achieved many remarkable wins for the professions we proudly represent,” added Mr Holmes.
“Judith’s passion for the interests of nurses and midwives and organising, led her to become one of the founders of Global Nurses United in 2013, which has since grown to 30 member unions.
“Committed to fighting for workers in all industries, Judith also served in many roles at the Australian Council of Trade Unions and will continue as President of Unions NSW for the duration of her term.
“I extend my deepest gratitude and heart filled thanks to Judith for everything she achieved throughout her career.
“Despite her well-earned retirement, we look forward to witnessing Judith’s ongoing advocacy into the future.”
