Surgeries postponed as nurses, midwives prepare to strike in NSW

Some scheduled surgeries will be postponed in New South Wales tomorrow as nurses and midwives move to strike for a 15 per cent pay rise.

Health Minister Ryan Park said preparations are under way at the state's hospital system for the Nurses and Midwives Association's 24-hour industrial action tomorrow.

"These contingencies will mean some patients who have surgery scheduled for tomorrow are being contacted to make alternative arrangements," he said in a statement.

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Park urged residents with non life-threatening conditions to first phone Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 before heading to a hospital.

Minimal, life-preserving staffing will be in place at public hospitals and health services during the strike.

The union has not accepted the government's offer of an interim three per cent pay rise back-paid to July 1, claiming nurses and midwives are leaving for better pay interstate.

They are seeking a 15 per cent pay increase, plus superannuation, back-paid to July 1.

The union said high levels of exhaustion, a decade of wage suppression and cost of living pressures have taken a toll on its members.

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Park, however, argued the proposed pay rise was reasonable and would spare patients from an impact to their care.

"I acknowledge the dispute between the government and the association has a way to go," he said.

The Industrial Relations Commission has ordered the union not to strike tomorrow.

Rallies will be held at Jack Evans Boat Harbour in Tweed Heads, Hyde Park in Sydney and QEII Square in Albury.