Zonda is a recruitment agency specialising in healthcare. We recruit healthcare professionals for permanent and temporary roles across Australia. Registered Nurses can work in many different facilities and locations in Australia, attracting RNs from all over the world.
Australia is not only an amazing place to explore but is also known for its competitive wages for healthcare professionals. According to nurse.org, Australia ranks 5th in the world for highest nursing wages, behind only Switzerland, Luxembourg, Denmark, and the Virgin Islands.
Whether you’re an Australian or an overseas professional, opportunities are abundant. Nurses are in high demand in Australia, especially in rural and remote areas. According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, residential aged care will face a gap of 5,918 nurses by 2024-25.
Requirements to Become a Registered Nurse in Australia
To meet the high standards for nursing in Australia, you need to:
- Educational Qualification: Obtain a Bachelor of Nursing degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
- Registration: Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English language proficiency if you are not a native English speaker. This can be done through tests like IELTS, OET, PTE, or TOEFL.
- Criminal History Check: Complete a criminal history check to ensure you meet the character requirements set by AHPRA.
- Work Experience: Some positions may require prior nursing experience, particularly for specialised roles.
- Immunisations and Health Checks: Provide evidence of certain immunisations and health checks as required by healthcare employers.
- Professional Indemnity Insurance: Have or be covered by professional indemnity insurance.
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Engage in continuing professional development activities as part of the registration requirements.
- Skills Assessment (for International Nurses): If you are an internationally qualified nurse, you may need to undergo a skills assessment to ensure your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.
- Visa (for International Nurses): Secure an appropriate visa to work in Australia if you are an international applicant.
Top Areas to Visit and Live in Australia
Popular cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and the Gold Coast are in high demand. However, Australia has many other areas that provide amazing experiences for registered nurses, whether as travel nurses or on permanent contracts.
Mudgee in NSW ranks well among these places.
Mudgee is a charming town located in the Central West of New South Wales, renowned for its rich history, vibrant community, and stunning natural beauty. With a population of around 11,460, Mudgee offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences.
Although Australia is famous for its summer, Mudgee provides a unique opportunity to enjoy all four seasons distinctly.
Summers are typically hot, with occasional thunderstorms that bring a refreshing change. Winters, on the other hand, are relatively cold, featuring frosty mornings that give way to beautiful sunny days, creating a perfect setting for enjoying the region’s renowned wine and gourmet food.
Why Mudgee is Excellent for RNs
Career Opportunities:
- Aged Care Facilities: Mudgee has reputable aged care facilities offering rewarding career opportunities for RNs.
- Work-Life Balance: The town’s smaller scale compared to metropolitan areas can offer a more manageable and less stressful work environment.
- Community Healthcare: There are ample opportunities to make a significant impact in community healthcare settings.
Quality of Life:
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Mudgee is generally lower than in major cities, making it an attractive option for RNs looking to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
- Community Feel: Mudgee’s strong sense of community provides a supportive and welcoming environment for newcomers.
- Safety: Mudgee is known for its low crime rates, offering a safe place to live and work.
Proximity to Other Attractions:
- Exploration: Mudgee’s location allows for easy access to other notable areas in New South Wales, making weekend trips and exploration convenient.
- Travel: The town is well-connected by road, providing straightforward travel options to and from larger cities.
Professional Development:
- Networking: The healthcare community in Mudgee is tight-knit, offering excellent networking opportunities and professional relationships.
- Continued Learning: Opportunities for professional development and continued learning through local healthcare facilities and organisations.
Living and working in Mudgee provides RNs with a balanced lifestyle that combines career fulfilment with the pleasures of a vibrant community and beautiful surroundings.
Even if living in a small town isn’t for you, Mudgee is an awesome location for travel nursing as well.
6 Reasons to Consider Going to Mudgee with Zonda
- Wine Country:
Mudgee is renowned for its vineyards and wineries. With over 40 cellar doors, you can enjoy wine tasting and vineyard tours.
- Stunning Scenery:
Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Mudgee boasts rolling hills, lush farmland, and beautiful national parks. The area is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and picnicking.
- Gourmet Food:
Alongside its wine, Mudgee is also known for its excellent food. The local produce is top-notch, and there are numerous farm-to-table restaurants and gourmet markets to explore.
- Community Feel:
Mudgee has a strong sense of community. The friendly locals, combined with various festivals and events throughout the year, create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
- Heritage and Culture:
Mudgee is rich in history, with well-preserved colonial architecture and heritage sites. The town’s cultural scene includes art galleries, museums, and regular cultural events, making it a culturally enriching place to live.
- Nearby Attractions:
For those living in or visiting Mudgee, the Blue Mountains are just a 1 hour and 45-minute drive away. This stunning region offers breath taking views, hiking trails, and a variety of outdoor activities, making it an excellent day trip destination.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy the relaxed lifestyle of a picturesque country town, explore the rich flavours of local wines and foods, or simply find a serene place to call home, Mudgee has something to offer.
Its perfect climate, accessibility, and vibrant community make it an excellent choice for both living and visiting.
If you are an RN with full work rights in Australia and experience in aged care, send your resume now.
Our consultants will be in touch to provide more information on travel nursing opportunities or permanent roles in aged care facilities. Contact us today!