Introduction:
Nursing is a highly respected and rewarding profession worldwide, and Australia is no exception. This article provides insights into the Australian nursing career, including qualifications, requirements, working hours, daily tasks, and more.
Nursing Qualifications:
To become a nurse in Australia, one must start by completing a nursing qualification. These qualifications vary in levels, starting with a two-year nursing diploma or a 3 year bachelor degree. Following completion, individuals must register with either the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia via Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to obtain the license.
If you are an overseas registered nurse your qualification duration may differ and hence you will need to be assessed by AHPRA for the right pathway to start your nursing career. This assessment is called Outcomes Based Assessment.
Australian Nursing Career Requirements:
Meeting specific requirements is essential to pursue a nursing career in Australia:
- English Proficiency: Fluency in English is vital, and passing the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)/PTE exam is mandatory if your qualification is from a non- English speaking country.
- Educational Credentials: Nursing degrees and credentials from select countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and others, are recognized in Australia. However, an assessment is required to ensure that skills align with Australian standards.
- Competency Assessment Exams– If your degree is not from any of the countries listed above, chances are that you will need to undergo assessment exams ie NCLEX (Nursing Council Licensure examination) and OSCE (Objective structured clinical examination) to get your nursing licence in Australia.
Working Hours of Australian Nurses:
The standard work week in Australia consists of 38 hours, with most nurses averaging 33 hours. While nurses can work overtime, newcomers often start with 12-hour shifts for three consecutive days. Weekend and holiday shifts are common at the beginning of a nursing career, gradually transitioning to regular hours.
Daily Tasks and Responsibilities:
Nurses work in an integrated healthcare environment, collaborating with other professionals to provide patient care. Duties include vital sign monitoring, administering IVs, and conducting patient examinations. Effective communication and the ability to work with diverse personalities are essential skills for nurses.
Lunch Breaks
Australian nurses are entitled to lunch and other breaks, typically scheduled within the first and last 4-6 hours of a shift. Lunch breaks last around 30 minutes, though some nurses may have longer breaks.
Work Environment and Colleagues:
Nursing is a diverse field in Australia, attracting individuals of all ages and genders. The work environment fosters camaraderie among colleagues, creating a supportive atmosphere.
Holidays and Vacations:
Nurses in Australia receive holiday pay for specific days, including Christmas, New Year’s, Boxing Day, and Easter. While nurses are salaried, they are compensated for working during holidays.
Nursing Wages:
Nurses in Australia receive their salaries primarily on Fridays, although paydays on Mondays or Wednesdays are not uncommon. The average annual income for entry level nurses in Australia is approximately $74,000.
Conclusion:
A nursing career in Australia is not only rewarding but also comes with its own unique requirements and challenges. While nurses may face difficult situations involving illness and death, their commitment to providing quality care remains unwavering. Australian nursing is a profession dedicated to saving and improving lives, making it a noble and fulfilling choice. If you are a Registered nurse in your home country and are looking for ways to start your career in Australia, We are here to help. Get in touch with us today and let’s start building your Australian nursing career.