If you are a nurse with a Diploma in General Nursing and midwifery (GNM) and aspire to work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia, this comprehensive guide is tailored for you. I am Jesin from Edulogix, and in this article, we will explore the various options available to GNM nurses for upgrading their qualifications and pursuing a successful nursing career in Australia.
The Importance of GNM Nurses in Australia: Before delving into the pathways, let’s acknowledge the significant role GNM nurses play in the Australian healthcare system. With their dedication and skills, GNM nurses contribute substantially to patient care. However, to expand their career opportunities and reach their full potential, many GNM nurses aspire to become Registered Nurses.
1. GNM Nurses and the OBA Pathway: The Outcomes Based Assessment (OBA) pathway is a well-established route for international nurses to become registered nurses in Australia. However, GNM nurses fall into Stream C, where AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) advises that their qualifications must be upgraded to be eligible for the OBA pathway.
2. Option 1: Pursue a Graduate Certificate in Nursing (GCN): One of the viable options for GNM nurses is to pursue a Graduate Certificate in Nursing (GCN). This program is specifically designed to bridge the gap between GNM and RN qualifications. Typically taking 6 to 12 months to complete, successful completion of the GCN program allows nurses to enter the OBA pathway and appear for the NCLEX examination.
The average fees for the GCN course range from 7,000 AUD to 10,000 AUD, making it a cost-effective option to upgrade qualifications. It’s essential to research different institutions offering this program and their specific requirements for admission.
3. Option 2: Enroll in a Bachelor of Nursing (3-Year Program): Another pathway available to GNM nurses is enrolling in a Bachelor of Nursing program in Australia. This is a comprehensive 3-year course that provides in-depth nursing education and training. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible for direct registration with AHPRA as Registered Nurses without the need to go through the OBA pathway.
While the Bachelor of Nursing program offers a streamlined route to RN registration, it’s important to consider the cost, which can be approximately 30,000 AUD per year. However, some universities may offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for GNM qualifications, providing exemptions for certain units and reducing both the time and cost of the program.
4. Upgrading Qualifications in India: For GNM nurses who prefer to upgrade their qualifications in their home country, India offers a viable option. The Post-Basic BSc Nursing qualification in India is eligible for the OBA pathway in Australia. This program typically spans 2 years and can cost around 2 to 3 lakhs (approximately 3,000 to 5,000 AUD) for the entire duration.
Additionally, some Indian universities now offer online programs, providing added convenience and flexibility for nurses looking to enhance their qualifications while continuing to work.
5. Request for Support and Feedback: Edulogix is here to support and guide aspiring nurses in making informed decisions about their nursing careers. Whether you have questions about the GCN program, Bachelor of Nursing options, or any other inquiries, feel free to contact us (contact details in the comments section). We are committed to assisting you on your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse in Australia.
Conclusion: For GNM nurses with a dream of becoming Registered Nurses in Australia, upgrading qualifications is a crucial step. Options like the Graduate Certificate in Nursing, the Bachelor of Nursing program in Australia, or pursuing the Post-Basic BSc Nursing qualification in India can pave the way for a successful nursing career Down Under.
As you embark on this journey, remember that Edulogix is dedicated to providing well-researched content and support to help nurses achieve their dreams. Stay safe and stay happy as you work towards becoming a Registered Nurse in Australia!
Additional Content and Resources: To further assist you in your pursuit, we recommend exploring the following resources:
Please note that these external resources can provide valuable information and guidance throughout your journey.