Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori Nursing and Midwifery Academic Workforce Across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Background: Promoting a representative and supportive industry for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori nursing and midwifery academic staff is a key tenet of Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand universities, and fundamental to strengthening the health workforce. Surprisingly, information about this workforce is unknown.

Aim: The aim of the study was to gain an understanding of the Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori nursing and midwifery academic workforce.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey of organisations that provide accredited nursing and midwifery education within Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Demographic, academic and employment information relating to Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori nursing and midwifery staff was collected.

Findings: Thirty-three organisations responded, reporting a total of 55 staff. Aotearoa New Zealand universities (n = 6) had between one and four Māori or Aboriginal staff members. Australian universities (n = 27) reported between one and nine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, with 10 universities reporting that they had none. Most staff held a PhD or Master’s degree and were employed at lecturer level in a full- time continuing position. There were 10 appointed into a professoriate level position. Workload was predominantly allocated to teaching and research.

Discussion: Neither country has reached parity with the Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori overall population. Substantial efforts are required to grow this workforce. In addition, as most staff hold lower-level academic positions, greater succession planning through increased mentorship and professional development is urgently needed.