Heather Pickard appointed as inaugural program CEO
Nurse Midwife HPA Board Chair Denise Heinjus has announced Heather Pickard’s appointment as the inaugural Nurse Midwife HPA Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
"On behalf of the Nursing and Midwifery Health Program Australia Board, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Heather Pickard as the inaugural CEO of this very exciting and timely program."
Heather comes to the program as an experienced CEO and Board member with a genuine passion for making a difference to the lives of nurses, midwives and undergraduate students in these disciplines.
Experience – professional and personal
Heather brings a mixture of clinical skills, governance expertise, and her own personal lived experience of long-term intentional change to the role. Read Heather’s bio
Heather is passionate about making a difference to the health of nurses, midwives and students.
Heather said it is a privilege to lead Nurse Midwife HPA after launching the service as the Implementation Director.
A vital service for nurses and midwives
“Nurse Midwife HPA is a vital service for nurses and midwives. It enables early intervention to address sensitive health issues faced by our nursing and midwifery workforce and, in turn, supports job satisfaction and retention.”
“Nursing and midwifery are very rewarding professions and have a pivotal role in the delivery of high-quality care and meeting the diverse healthcare needs of all Australians. But we recognise that the professions are also demanding and stressful, with nurses and midwives facing higher vulnerability and potential exposure to psychological health risks.
“Demanding workplace environments, high workloads, long hours and emotional stressors can put nurses and midwives at greater risk of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression and burnout.
“At the extreme, such risks can result in significant harms, including drug and alcohol misuse and other diversionary behaviours, such as gambling.”
Watch our video of Heather Pickard outlining the health issues nurses and midwives experience, what Nurse Midwife HPA offers, and why it’s vital you reach out when you need support.
What is Nurse Midwife HPA
The Nurse Midwife HPA is a free, confidential, peer delivered and independent service for nurses and midwives, as well as nursing and midwifery students, experiencing any sensitive psychological health issue. Our service explained
The Albanese Government has committed to a five-year investment to deliver the Nurse Midwife HPA. The peer-led, specialist counselling service commenced in March 2024 with national telehealth consultations. The Nurse Midwife HPA is working towards establishing four hubs and regional offices throughout Australia later this year, that will offer face-to-face and telehealth services.
Contact us
Contact Nurse Midwife HPA by phone 1800 001 060 or email info@nursemidwifehpa.org.au during business hours