The Registered Nurse (RN) profession in Australia is considered one of the core roles in the healthcare system, directly involved in patient care, clinical management, and supporting community health. With a broad scope of practice, attractive salary, and long-term career growth, this is a meaningful pathway for anyone looking to build a sustainable career in Australia.
1. What is a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia?
A Registered Nurse (RN) is a qualified and licensed professional who has completed formal nursing education and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
To practise as an RN in Australia, you must:
- Complete at least a Bachelor of Nursing or equivalent qualification.
- Hold official registration with the ability to make independent clinical decisions.
- Have a broader scope of practice compared to an Enrolled Nurse (EN), often leading clinical care while supervising ENs or nursing assistants.
Key roles and responsibilities of a Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses act as both direct carers and clinical coordinators. Typical responsibilities include:
- Assessing patient health, medical history, and care needs.
- Developing personalised care plans and implementing treatments as prescribed.
- Administering medications, monitoring patient responses, and reporting to doctors.
- Recording and maintaining accurate medical documentation.
- Supporting recovery, health education, and emotional care for patients and families.
- Supervising ENs, nursing assistants, and student nurses.
- Ensuring compliance with safety standards and ethical practices.
In short, RNs play a pivotal role as both frontline carers and clinical leaders within Australia’s healthcare system.
2. Requirements to Become a Registered Nurse in Australia
Minimum qualification
- Completion of a Bachelor of Nursing in Australia or an equivalent, internationally recognised degree.
- In some cases, overseas-qualified nurses may need to undertake a Bridging Program/IRON Program.
Mandatory registration and certifications
- Registration with AHPRA – a compulsory requirement to work legally as an RN.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN theory exam and the OSCE (for international applicants, as required by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia).
- Meet English language proficiency requirements (IELTS, OET, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT).
- Additional certifications commonly required in healthcare settings: First Aid Certificate, CPR Certificate, National Police Check, Working with Children Check (for child-related environments).
Essential skills
- Clinical expertise: strong medical knowledge and patient care management.
- Communication skills: clear interaction with doctors, patients, and families.
- Leadership and teamwork: supervising ENs, support workers, and nursing students.
- Critical thinking and decision-making: managing emergencies and making sound clinical judgments.
- Holistic care: supporting not only physical health but also patients’ emotional wellbeing.
- Organisation and time management: working effectively in high-pressure environments.
- Ethics and empathy: essential values in healthcare practice.
3. Job Opportunities and Salary for Registered Nurses in Australia
3.1. Career opportunities
The demand for nurses in Australia remains consistently high due to the ageing population and increasing healthcare needs.
RNs can work across a wide range of settings:
- Public and private hospitals (medical, surgical, emergency, ICU, etc.)
- Aged care facilities
- Private clinics and community health centres
- Home care and disability support services
- Schools, mental health centres, and rehabilitation services
With experience, RNs can progress to advanced positions such as:
- Nurse Unit Manager
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Practitioner
Nursing is also listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, offering excellent migration opportunities for international graduates seeking long-term careers in Australia.
3.2. Average salary
According to recent SEEK data:
- The average salary for a Registered Nurse ranges from AUD 85,000 – AUD 95,000 per year, depending on state, work shifts, and experience.
- Senior or specialised RNs can earn over AUD 100,000 annually.
- Additional benefits include shift allowances, weekend or public holiday pay.
A career as a Registered Nurse in Australia not only provides a stable income and excellent career prospects but also offers the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. If you are seeking a meaningful career with strong growth potential and long-term residency opportunities, becoming a Registered Nurse is a rewarding choice.
>> Contact NextGem’s team of experts today for tailored guidance on nursing study pathways, professional registration, and career opportunities in Australia..
