“The Diploma of Nursing in Australia is not only an ideal starting point to become an Enrolled Nurse (EN), but also opens up sustainable career opportunities and long-term migration prospects within one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems.”
1. Course Overview
The Diploma of Nursing is a nationally recognised vocational program that typically takes 18 to 24 months to complete, combining both theoretical and practical training. Unlike university-level bachelor degrees, this course is more practice-oriented, enabling students to enter the workforce sooner with hands-on skills.
- The course is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), ensuring high educational standards.
- Upon graduation, students can apply for professional registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to legally practise as an Enrolled Nurse in Australia.
- Career outcome: With a Diploma and AHPRA registration, you’ll be qualified to work as an Enrolled Nurse (EN) under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), delivering essential care and support to patients.
Who Should Study This Course?
- High school graduates seeking a career in nursing
- Individuals aiming to become a registered Enrolled Nurse in Australia
- International students looking for a cost-effective way to study nursing
- Career changers transitioning into the healthcare sector
- Students in related fields (aged care, personal support, community health) wanting to upskill
- People interested in pursuing skilled migration pathways in Australia
2. Study Structure
The course duration is typically 18 to 24 months, including both classroom-based learning and clinical placement. The curriculum is designed to balance medical theory and practical skills, equipping you with a solid foundation.
Core Theoretical Subjects:
- Anatomy and Physiology – Understanding the human body and how illnesses affect bodily functions.
- Pharmacology – Learning about medication types, dosages, side effects, and safe administration.
- Infection Prevention and Control – Ensuring safe and hygienic practices to protect patients and healthcare staff.
Practical Nursing Skills:
- Patient Care – Hands-on training in dressing wounds, measuring vital signs, mobility support, and daily care.
- Medication Management – Administering and recording medications accurately.
- Professional Communication – Developing effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams, especially in sensitive situations.
You will complete approximately 400 hours of supervised clinical placement in settings such as hospitals, aged care homes, or community health centres. This real-world experience enhances your employability and builds confidence for future roles.
3. Entry Requirements
To enrol in this course, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent).
- English language proficiency: A minimum IELTS score of 7.0 (no band lower than 7.0), as required by AHPRA. This ensures you can safely and effectively communicate in clinical environments.
Refer to AHPRA’s official website for detailed English requirements. - Other requirements: Some institutions may require a health check, vaccination records, and a National Police Check prior to placement.
4. Career Outcomes
Upon successful registration with AHPRA, you can begin working as an Enrolled Nurse (EN) – a role in high demand across Australia.
- Work areas: Acute care, chronic care, aged care, rehabilitation, mental health, community healthcare, and care management.
- Salary: According to SEEK, ENs earn an average salary of $65,000–$75,000/year.
- Strong job demand: With nursing shortages across key states like Victoria, Queensland, and New South Wales, job prospects are excellent for graduates.
- Workplaces: Public and private hospitals, aged care facilities, community clinics, and rehabilitation centres.
5. Career Progression & Migration Pathways
A Diploma of Nursing offers not just employment, but a long-term career and migration plan:
Pathway to Registered Nurse: After becoming an EN, you may transition to a Bachelor of Nursing program to qualify as a Registered Nurse (RN) – a role with higher responsibility and earning potential.
Migration Opportunities: Nursing remains on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, making it a high-priority profession for permanent residency pathways.
- Eligible visa types: 189, 190, and 491 skilled visas
- Graduates may also apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) to gain post-study work experience.
Visit the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest skilled occupation list.
6. Why Study Nursing in Australia?
- Short course duration with intensive practical training
- High demand and job security in the healthcare sector
- Attractive starting salaries for Enrolled Nurses
- Clear pathway to permanent residency through skilled migration
If you’re looking for a rewarding, stable, and migration-friendly career in Australia, the Diploma of Nursing is an excellent investment. With rising demand for qualified healthcare workers, this program offers a strong career foundation and future growth potential.
>> Contact NextGem today to receive personalised advice on your study, career, and migration pathway in nursing.
