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International nurses: Nursing jobs in Australia

Dreaming of a nursing job in Australia? Whether you want to immerse yourself in Melbourne’s food and arts scene, wander along Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, or soak up the sunshine on Queensland’s Gold Coast, Nursing Australia makes it simple to live, work, and explore.

As one of the leading international nursing recruitment agencies in Australia, we support nurses from around the world to secure flexible, safe, and rewarding roles across the country.

Explore all our nursing jobs (opens in new tab)

One Interview, endless opportunities

We’re a national organisation with offices in every major capital city. You just need to complete one interview and then work wherever life in Australia takes you.

If you register with Nursing Australia, you get:

Expert guidance from a caring team

At Nursing Australia, you’re part of a team that genuinely cares for you. We build personal relationships with all our nurses to make sure your needs are met and your contributions are valued wherever you go.

Support before you move

Our experienced consultants support you before you even board your flight. We help you understand registration requirements, organise key documents, and get “work-ready” for your move.

Opportunities to work across Australia

We can help you find opportunities on a casual or contract basis. Whether you want to work in a city hospital or an outback clinic, we can help you find the right work to suit your experience and preferences.

We also provide plenty of other benefits to make your Australian nursing journey easier:

  • Free uniform
  • Professional indemnity insurance
  • Flexible shifts and work locations
  • 24/7 support from our national allocations team
  • Easy online shift booking system

Ready to start your Australian nursing adventure?

Are you currently in Australia? (Required)

Diverse nursing job opportunities in Australia

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High demand specialities

If you have experience in Midwifery, Emergency, Operating Theatres, ICU / CCU or NICU, you may get higher rates and priority shifts.

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Aged care and community nursing

Provide compassionate care for elderly patients in residential care, nursing homes or community setting to improve their quality of life.

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Disability support

Help people with disabilities by providing personal care, medical support, and companionship, making a real difference in their daily lives.

Testimonials

Recruitment process was quick, efficient, easy and very professional. The staff at Nursing Australia are very helpful, providing me with a variety of shifts every week. I feel very supported by the team as I get to do the work that I am looking for.
Margaret Registered Nurse from NSW
I have worked with Nursing Australia since 2004. The flexibility and variety of work, from hospital settings to correction facilities, enables me to attain and maintain many skills and keeps my interest in the nursing profession.
Deborah Registered Nurse from WA

FAQs about nursing jobs in Australia

Working overseas can feel overwhelming, but Nursing Australia walks you through every step so you can start your nursing career in Australia with confidence.

1. First, you need to apply for AHPRA Registration. Visit the Nursing & Midwifery Board of Australia website and follow the internationally qualified nurses process.

2. Organise your visa. Check your eligibility for a working holiday visa via the Department of Home Affairs website.

3. Prepare Your Documents. You’ll need:
• Minimum 12 months’ experience as a registered nurse
• Two clinical references
• An overseas police check

• Tax File Number (TFN) – Everyone working in Australia needs a tax file number.
• Bank account - Set up an Australian bank account so we can pay you smoothly.
• Travel Insurance - Make sure it covers medical care and possible repatriation.
• Medicare – Depending on your visa and your home country, you may be eligible for Medicare. It helps with the cost of accessing healthcare and medicines.
• Mobile phone - Bring an unlocked phone so we can contact you easily.
• Immunisation Records - Most hospitals require proof of Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, Diphtheria / Tetanus / Pertussis, Tuberculosis.

Additional requirements will be confirmed once you apply.

Australia offers world-class healthcare, modern hospitals, and excellent nurse-to-patient ratios.

There are public hospitals that are similar to the UK’s NHS. They’re larger, well-resourced, and accessible by public transport. Private hospitals offer high-quality care to patients with insurance or the ability to self-fund. There are also a variety of nursing roles in clinics, aged care homes, disability group homes and in the community.

• Public hospitals: approx. 1:4 on day shifts
• Private hospitals: typically 1:4 to 1:6

Some facilities may buddy nurses for shared patient loads.

In hospitals, it’s typically:
• Morning: 07:00–15:00
• Afternoon: 14:30–22:00
• Night: 21:30–07:30

12-hour shifts may be available, mainly in specialty areas like ICU or HDU.

Yes. Internationally qualified nurses are welcome to work in Australia if they hold a valid visa and are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Nursing Australia helps overseas nurses secure placements across public and private hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health services. Explore our current openings at our Nursing Jobs page.

To work as a nurse in Australia, you’ll need AHPRA registration, an eligible work visa, and be able to pass other additional checks. Each international nurse job listing on our Nursing Jobs page outlines specific requirements.

You can apply directly through the AHPRA website. The process involves verifying your qualifications through the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), submitting identification documents, and proving English language competency. Nursing Australia can guide you through the registration process as part of your job application.

Common visa options include the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa, Skilled Independent (189) visa, and Employer-Sponsored visas. Your eligibility depends on your qualifications, work experience, and the employer’s sponsorship status. Nursing Australia can connect you with healthcare employers who support visa sponsorship.

Yes. Many of our partner facilities provide relocation support or visa sponsorship for international nurses. Nursing Australia works closely with both nurses and employers to streamline the onboarding process and ensure a smooth transition to Australia.

The demand for qualified nurses remains high across Australia, particularly in regional and remote areas, aged care, mental health, theatre, and emergency nursing. Nursing Australia regularly posts new Nursing Jobs to meet these needs nationwide.

The timeline varies depending on your AHPRA registration and visa processing time. On average, the process can take three to six months from application to placement. Nursing Australia helps fast-track your application and connects you with available roles while your paperwork is being finalised.

International nurses enjoy competitive salaries, excellent working conditions, career growth opportunities, and a strong work-life balance. Australia offers diverse healthcare settings, from major hospitals to community care, giving you the chance to expand your professional experience.

Yes. Nursing Australia places international nurses across both metropolitan and regional areas. Regional placements often offer higher pay rates, travel allowances, and accommodation support. You can filter by location on our Nursing Jobs page.

Yes. You can submit your details and begin the application process while your AHPRA registration is being finalised. Nursing Australia can assist with documentation and help you prepare for future placements once your registration is approved.

Not always. Many employers welcome international nurses who have strong experience overseas, especially in high-demand areas such as aged care, ICU, emergency, and theatre. Nursing Australia provides guidance to help you meet Australian healthcare standards before you start.

Simply visit our Nursing Jobs page, browse the latest opportunities for international nurses, and click Apply Now. You can also register your interest via our Contact Us page to be notified of new openings.