By 2030, Australia will be experiencing a shortfall of 123,000 nurses. An aging population, longer lifespans that require more medical care, and a higher incidence of chronic diseases and mental health problems are creating a huge need for qualified nurses. However, there are simply not enough nurses being trained at present to cover the requirements.

IDP can help you relocate to Australia to study nursing. From choosing your course, the provider, your accommodation, and even logistics of your visa, we can help.

Contact us now to chat about becoming a nurse in Australia. The demand is high, and our education counsellors want to help you achieve your goals.

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Need more information on reasons to study Nursing? Read on below.

The Growing Demand for Nurses in Australia

The demand for nursing professionals is growing day by day. A study by the Bureau of Labour Statistics claimed that there would be a 19 percent growth in the employment of nurses between 2016 to 2026 in Australia. The major reason behind this growth is the increasing chronic diseases and aging population.

With the pandemic COVID-19 hitting, the demand for medical professionals has drastically increased and it has become difficult for the existing medical professionals to deal with the pressure. The government of Australia is also working along with stakeholders to tackle the challenges and maintain world-class healthcare facilities. The government is working towards the identification, training and recruitment of doctors and nurses for the country. There is a high demand for nurses in both the private and public sectors with hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics looking out for qualified nurses.

The Benefits of Studying Nursing in Australia

A registered nurse earns an average of around AUD 73,000 per year in Australia. However, the salary of a person who has completed a bachelor’s or master’s in nursing can go up to AUD 120,000 a year depending on qualifications and experience.

What’s more, the nursing profession also makes you eligible for a permanent residency in Australia. There are also plenty of opportunities to upskill, specialise, and work in a niche that is well paid and personally fulfilling. Benefits of studying nursing bachelor program in Australia, what career opportunities they can expect after these programs? Salary they can expect after these programs.

Eligibility and Tuition Fees for Studying Nursing in Australia

A Bachelor of Nursing program in Australia is for three to four years full time or equivalent part time. While the minimum requirement to study nursing in Australia for an international student is a high school diploma, the admission requirements may vary depending on the university. It is advisable that you check the eligibility criteria with the university to where you plan to apply.

A student must score minimum marks depending on the cut-off at various universities in tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. The average IELTS required is 7 while the average PTE score required is 65. The TOEFL score required in most universities is around 75. The minimum cut-off differs from university to university and the level of education; typically a post-grad requires a higher score.International students also need to have the following documents in order to enrol in an Australian university to study nursing -

  • Academic records from all former educational institutions

  • English proficiency proof through IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE.

  • Recommendation letter

  • Statement of purpose

  • Certification of awards or scholarships

  • Evidence of financial stability

For an international student, the average tuition fee for a bachelor's in nursing course is AUD 21,000 per year but may go up to AUD 50,000 a year based on the university chosen. Though this may differ from university to university and also scholarships.

However, along with the tuition fees, as an international student, you will also have to consider the cost of living in Australia including accommodation, food, transport and other expenses. On average, the living expenses for a student in Australia will come up to AUD 21,000 every year.

Checklist to Become a Nurse in Australia

  • Research the universities offering nursing courses and choosing the one best suited to your requirements

  • Gain admission to university

  • Apply for a study visa

  • Complete your degree to the standard required

  • Pass the Australian Nursing Council (ANC) registration examination. This is a national examination that assesses the knowledge of nursing professionals based on a benchmark set for practicing nursing in Australia. It is a three-part examination including theory, clinical simulation assessment and practical tests. You must clear all three parts in order to become a registered nurse in Australia.

Top Universities to Study Bachelor in Nursing in Australia

Based on the QS World University Rankings 2022, the top 10 universities to pursue nursing courses in Australia are:

  • The University of Sydney are listed as 12th in world. Offers around 30 nursing qualifications including undergrad and post-grad. Their leading academics, evidence-based teachings, and continual updates to materials mean you’re getting the most relevant and modern education possible.

  • Monash University are rated 14th in the world for nursing. Their clinical practices and real-life training ensure you are equipped to start work with your qualifications. Their teacher quality is highly ranked, and more than 95% of graduates gain employment post-graduation.

  • University of Technology Sydney coming in at 24th in the world, UTS is known for their effective and relevant teaching. Their staff have all had extensive professional experience, so you’ll be exposed to a number of real-life techniques, perspectives, and opportunities.

  • Griffith University is ranked 26th in the world for nursing. This is because their courses are comprehensive, with many clinical placements across health sectors and practices. These real-life experiences provide fantastic opportunities for finding your passion, and future roles.

  • The University of Melbourne ranked 29th in the world, a degree from the University of Melbourne gets you training from experts in their field. Partnerships with leading health providers get graduates insight into the real world, and a foot in the door for jobs.

Not Sure Where to Go from Here?

If you know you want to study nursing in Australia, contact us. We can help you choose courses, apply for your university of choice, and even assist with visa applications. We want you to get the career you want; ask us how we can help.

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