Michael Whaites

  • General Secretary, NSWNMA

  • RN (Dip), Midwife (Grad Dip), Masters of Adult Education

I started as an RN in aged care, then a Midwife in the PHS, becoming increasingly active in the Association. Since 2005, I’ve worked for you as an Organiser, Educator, Lead, and Manager, becoming the Assistant General Secretary in 2022, and General Secretary in 2026. 

Our leadership has delivered ratios in the PHS, fought major wage cases, and activated thousands of members across our union, delivering improved pay and conditions and holding employers to account.

I’ve worked on national and international campaigns: coordinating a groundbreaking inquiry into privatisation, establishing CICTAR - an internationally respected organisation exposing tax avoidance – and delivering union education across the Asia Pacific region.

With extensive experience running and winning campaigns, and ensuring the good governance and financial management of your union, I have the experience to win better lives and improve our professions. I’m on the board for Unions NSW, the ANMF, NewLaw, and the State Trustee Corporation, providing greater insight and capacity to manage your Association.

As Branch/General Secretary I’ll work to strengthen your Association as we pursue better lives for members.
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how to Vote for Michael

& the whaites + bough team

Every win we’ve secured comes back to one truth: we are always stronger together.

Under the NSWNMA's current leadership of Michael Whaites and Katrina Bough, this union has continually pushed forward – fighting hard for safer workplaces, better conditions, and genuine respect for the work we do.

Now, it’s time to protect that progress and keep building a better future for our union.

Back the team today – download our How to Vote guide and send it to your mates or and pop it up on your workplace noticeboard.

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