Thousands of nurses in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) have taken the streets of Sydney’s CBD to urge the state government to accept their demands for a pay rise, improved maternity staffing, and mandated nurse-to-patient ratios. The 24-hour state-wide strike began at 7 a.m. on March 31 for most nurses and midwives taking part, while life-preserving services will be maintained in all public hospitals and health services. The nurses gathered outside the Supreme Court holding signs that read: “Stop exploiting my empathy,” “Healthcare is not a business,” and “We deserve more than ‘thanks.'” The main rally at Macquarie Street saw members of the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) from 170 hospitals marching to state parliament. Meanwhile, 20 smaller rallies were held in regional locations, including Wollongong, Newcastle, Orange, Port Macquarie, Gouburn, Wagga Wagga, Dubbo, and other areas. NSW Health has obtained an order from the NSW …