Study nursing online to open job opportunities
Is there a shortage of nurses in Australia?
Australia, like most of the countries around the globe, is experiencing a severe shortage of nurses. A recent study by QNU Federal Budget submissions in January 2009 reports that in Queensland alone there are over 1400 vacant nursing positions, and that number is expected to increase dramatically for several reasons.
The Australian Institute for Health and Welfare claims that over the next 20 years 60% of the current nursing workforce will retire. The report claims that 15% of Australia’s nursing community is retiring every year, and if that trend continues 90,000 current nurses will no longer be in service.
New graduates from classroom environments, as well as from online nursing courses, are not filling these vacant positions at the same rate and that scenario is creating several issues in hospitals and other healthcare facilities across the country. The healthcare industry is also creating part of the shortage due to the rapid expansion needed to meet the healthcare needs of the country.
Why work as a nurse in Australia?
The nursing shortage is creating opportunities in every area of nursing and the pay scale for nurses is constantly being adjusted. A first year RN can earn over AU$52,450, not including overtime pay. Clinical nurses, nurse practitioners and nurses with advanced degrees earn more than that, so the financial rewards of a nursing career in Australia are considered well above average.
Can I practice nursing if I study online in another country?
The benefits of living and working in Australia are exceptional. Six million people have come to Australia over the last 60 years to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle, the diverse culture, over 10,000 beaches and the country’s natural beauty.
The demand for nurses is opening the door for students who want to permanently or temporarily move to Australia to work. Australia offers visas to qualified nurses who earn certification or an advanced nursing education online, or in a classroom.
Do I need a visa?
Nurses hoping to migrate to Australia have more than one option. A nurse may migrate as an independent skilled migrant with no sponsor, or obtain a sponsored visa through the General Skilled Migration Program. The nursing profession is listed on the Critical Skills List, which is issued by the government, meaning nursing applicants can expect shorter application processing times.
Nurses between the age of 18 and 30 can work on what’s known as a Temporary Working Holiday visa. The holiday visa is good for 12 months. It entitles the nurse to work for one employer for six months, as long as it is part time. The government also offers an Occupational Trainee visa for at least three months or longer, if the nurse enrolls in a supervised workplace training or study program.
The most commonly applied for visa for nurses is the 457 visa, which can be granted for up to four years, as long as the nurse has an approved sponsoring employer.
Family members who accompany the nurse can study and work on the same visa. Nurses under 45 who have experience working as a RN, or have the equivalent of an Australian diploma, which is two years of study or more, can qualify for an Employer Nomination Scheme visa, which can become a permanent visa if the nurse meets the requirements.
What else is required?
Nurses are also required to register with a state or territory Nursing Registration Board. A professional migration agent can assist you by providing information and advice about the registration process and visa requirements, plus all nurses must be able to pass an English proficiency test before being granted a visa.
