In Australia’s dynamic healthcare landscape, nursing remains one of the most in-demand professions. With an aging population and evolving healthcare needs, the demand for skilled nurses continues to soar. If you’re considering a career in nursing Down Under, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to study and secure high-demand nursing jobs in Australia in 2024.
Step 1: Choose the Right Path of Study Before you embark on your nursing journey, it’s essential to choose the right educational pathway. In Australia, you can pursue nursing through various routes:
- Bachelor of Nursing (BN): A three-year undergraduate degree that provides comprehensive training in nursing theory and practice.
- Master of Nursing (MN): Designed for graduates from other disciplines, this program offers an accelerated pathway to become a registered nurse.
- Diploma of Nursing: A practical option for those seeking a faster entry into the nursing profession, typically taking 18-24 months to complete.
Consider your career goals, academic background, and personal circumstances when selecting the most suitable pathway.
Step 2: Meet the Entry Requirements Each nursing program in Australia has specific entry requirements, including academic prerequisites, English language proficiency tests (such as IELTS or TOEFL), and relevant work experience (for some programs). Make sure to review and fulfill these requirements to ensure a smooth application process.
Step 3: Enroll in an Accredited Program Ensure that the nursing program you choose is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC). Accredited programs adhere to national standards of education and training, providing you with a quality learning experience and enhancing your employability.
Step 4: Gain Practical Experience Through Clinical Placements Clinical placements are a crucial component of nursing education, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. Make the most of your clinical placements by actively engaging with patients, healthcare professionals, and multidisciplinary teams. These experiences will not only enhance your clinical skills but also expand your professional network.
Step 5: Obtain Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) After completing your nursing program, you’ll need to apply for registration with the NMBA to practice as a nurse in Australia. Registration requirements may vary depending on your qualifications and background, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the NMBA’s guidelines and submit all required documents promptly.
Step 6: Stay Updated on Industry Trends and Developments The field of nursing is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and best practices emerging regularly. Stay informed about industry trends, attend professional development workshops, and consider pursuing specialized certifications to enhance your skills and stay competitive in the job market.
Step 7: Secure High Demand Nursing Jobs With your qualifications, experience, and registration in hand, you’re ready to embark on your nursing career in Australia. Keep an eye out for high-demand nursing specialties, such as aged care, mental health, critical care, and rural nursing, which often offer competitive salaries and employment opportunities.
The fastest route into the nursing profession is by completing a 6-9 months course in nursing. Here are a few universities you can apply to:
- Central Queensland University
- University of Sunshine Coast
- Flinders University
- Western Sydney University
- Avondale College of Higher Education
- James Cook University
- Monash University
- University of Notre Dame
- Edith Cowan University
- Australian Catholic University
It is growing increasingly difficult to find a post-graduate job in nursing, and it is vital to be prepared when trying to find work post-qualification. The first thing to mention here is the process by which nursing graduates have to go through in order to secure employment post-study.
Nursing Skills Assessment. Nurses migrating to Australia are required to complete a nursing skills assessment. This is completed with the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) before lodging a visa application.
New South Wales is one of the best states in Australia to work in as a nurse. Not only is it filled with incredible beauty, amazing beaches, and awesome towns, but it’s also got heaps of opportunities available for nurses. The state boasts a strong job market for nurses and countless opportunities to grow your skills.
There is no age limit to work as a nurse in Australia or to apply for AHPRA registration. Different Australian visa’s do have different age limit requirements. Some countries are eligible to apply for a working holiday visa up to the age of 35!
The average salary for Registered Nurse is $43 per month in the Australia. The average additional cash compensation for a Registered Nurse in the Australia is $1, with a range from $1 – $33. Salaries estimates are based on 2038 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by Registered Nurse employees in Australia.
The Bachelor of Nursing (H3O) is an accelerated degree, meaning you will complete the full six semesters of study, including placements, over a two-year period. Bachelor of Nursing (Accelerated) courses are offered at our Hobart, Launceston, Cradle Coast and Sydney campuses for eligible students.
The Job Market for Nurses in Australia
The demand for nursing is ceaseless in Australia. Post COVID-19, the demand for nursing professionals has surged. Right now, Australia is in need of an estimated 85,000 nurses by 2025, and 123,000 nurses by 2030. Therefore, there’s a massive influx of nursing roles waiting for you.
Here are some companies hiring nurses:
- Epworth Healthcare
- Healius
- Ramsay Health Care
- Medibank
- Healthscope
- GenesisCare
- Estia Health
- Opal HealthCare
- Regis Aged Care
- Allity Aged Care
- I-MED Radiology Network
- Greencross Vets
- Bupa
- National Home Doctor Service
- KinCare
- Primary Health Care
- Pacific Smiles Group
- Australian Unity
- Pulse Health
- ResMed
- Sonic Healthcare
- Sigma Healthcare
- Aveo Group
- LCA
- Infinite Care
- Life Care
- BlueCross
- Just Better Care
Embarking on a nursing career in Australia requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By following these steps and staying proactive in your professional development, you can position yourself for success in the high-demand field of nursing in Australia in 2024 and beyond. Good luck on your journey!