Tuesday May 12, 2026
On International Nurses Day, we celebrate the skill, compassion and leadership of nurses across every role and department.
The theme for 2026, “Empowered Nurses Save Lives” reminds us that when nurses feel trusted and supported, the impact reaches far and wide. Improving care, outcomes and lives.
Empowerment starts with a culture where learning is encouraged, questions are welcomed and knowledge is shared.
Gareth, Nurse Practitioner at Eastern Health Angliss ED, knows that questions will arise, and it’s best to encourage the curiosity.
“If they have the courage to ask, have the courage to provide an informative and thoughtful response.”
Trust is another cornerstone of empowerment. Christine, Nurse Manager Eastern Health believes when nurses are trusted to do their work, they’re able to practise with confidence and excellence.
“I trust my nurses and demonstrate that trust every day, I empower them to work confidently and to the best of their abilities.”
Education plays a vital role in building confidence, safety and strong clinical practice creating spaces where nurses feel comfortable speaking up and asking for help.
Amy, a Nurse Educator at Eastern Health Box Hill, believes that positive ward culture and physiological safety play a big role in empowering nurses.
“For me as an educator, encouraging them to be confident empowers them to be safe in what they do”
Today and always, we celebrate nurses who save lives every day. Eastern Health leaders, educators and staff who are helping to foster a safe environment for nurses of any stage, and our community who put their trust in them every day.
Happy International Nurses Day.
