A guide to navigating graduate nurse programs in Australia

You’ve completed, or are about to complete your Diploma of Nursing or Bachelor of Nursing. So, what comes next? For many, the next step is applying for a graduate nurse program.

Whether you’re looking to understand what a graduate nurse program entails, need tips on how to stand out in your application or want to know what to do if you didn’t get a spot in a graduate nursing program, this guide has you covered.

What is a graduate nurse program?

A graduate nurse program is designed to support newly enrolled nurses (ENs) and registered nurses (RNs) in their transition from study to professional practice.

Graduate nurse programs can be offered across multiple streams, such as general nursing, perioperative care and mental health. These programs typically run for 12 months, can be completed part-time or full-time and allows graduates to consolidate their theoretical knowledge and clinical skills through a combination of clinical rotations, professional development opportunities and training days.

Graduate nurse programs are available in both private and public health services and there are some differences between the two.

For graduate nurse programs in the public health sector, applications are submitted through a centralised application system and the program typically consists of structured rotations across multiple specialties within a hospital or health service. While there are usually more positions offered in these graduate nurse programs, they can be highly competitive.

Graduate nurse programs in the private health sector usually have less positions available and applications are typically submitted directly to the employer. While some of these graduate nurse programs have a similar structure to public graduate nurse programs, others may only focus on one specific area or specialty such as surgical, perioperative or oncology care.

Eligibility criteria

To apply for a graduate nurse program in Australia, applicants generally need to meet the following requirements:

1. Registration
   Must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) as an EN or RN before the program’s start date.

2. Recent graduate
   Most programs require applicants to have completed their diploma or nursing degree in Australia within the last 12 to 24 months.

3. Work rights
   Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold a visa with full working rights in Australia. Some graduate programs in nursing may also accept New Zealand citizens.

4. Minimal experience
   Some graduate nurse programs state that applicants should have less than six calendar months of full-time nursing experience.

Graduate nursing program structure

While the program structure for a graduate nurse program can differ depending on the healthcare facility, most graduate programs in nursing include the following key elements:

1. Clinical rotations
   Most graduate nursing programs typically consist of two six-month clinical rotations, though some programs may offer a 12-month placement within a single ward or unit.

   The wards or units you rotate through depend on the specific graduate nursing program. Some programs, like the one at John Fawkner Private Hospital in Victoria, follow a structured rotation, where graduates gain experience across different ward departments such as the oncology medical ward and general medical ward.

   Others, like the program at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, allow graduates to indicate their preferred clinical rotations during the application process. While it isn’t guaranteed, preferences are carefully considered, giving you the opportunity to work in an area that aligns with your interests.

2. Mentorship and support
   While each graduate nurse program differs, most include a graduate nurse coordinator who provides support, guidance and leadership throughout the program.

   Additionally, nurse educators are available to assist with professional development and clinical skill-building, ensuring graduates receive the training and knowledge needed for their role.

   Extensive clinical support is also typically provided during each rotation, with most programs assigning a preceptor, an experienced nurse who supervises and supports graduate nurses, ensuring they become confident and competent enough to deliver quality care.

3. Education and development
   Most graduate nurse programs incorporate training sessions, study days and workshops designed to support graduates in developing the clinical competence and skills required to become capable and confident nurses.

   For example, the graduate nurse program at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Victoria includes a clinical skills workshop at the start of the program along with two short courses throughout the year. These courses cover topics such as cancer care emergencies and the assessment and management of acutely ill oncology patients, allowing graduates to develop cancer nursing skills.

Key dates and application process

Application timelines vary but most follow a mid-year recruitment cycle for programs commencing the following year.

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Typical application timeline:

Between May and July
Applications open.

Between July and September
Invitations to interview are emailed and interviews are held.

Between September and October
Offers are made to successful applicants.

Between January and March
Programs commence. Some nurse graduate programs also have mid-year intakes with programs commencing between May and August.

Application process
While the application process may vary, it typically includes the following steps:

1. Determine where to apply
   If you’re applying for a graduate nurse program in a public health service, you will typically need to apply through a centralised system such as GradStart for programs in New South Wales and the Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria (PMCV) for programs in Victoria.

   For graduate nurse programs in a private health service, applications are usually submitted directly to the health service through their website or recruitment portal.

2. Prepare your documentation
   Ensure you have all the required documents ready before submitting your application. Most programs will require:

   • A curriculum vitae (CV)

   • An official copy of your academic transcript

   • Details of two clinical referees

3. Program-specific requirements
   In addition to the standard documentation, certain graduate nursing programs may have specific requirements, such as:
   
   • A letter of application explaining why you are interested in the program

   • Your two most recent clinical placement appraisals

   For specialised graduate programs, specific documentation may be required. For example, if you’re applying for a mental health graduate nurse program, you may need an appraisal from a mental health placement.

4. Submit your application and await interview invitations
   Once your application is submitted, shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview as a part of the selection process. Depending on the program, interviews may be conducted in-person or online.

5. Notification of outcome
   After the interview process, successful candidates will be notified of their acceptance into the program.

   If you are unsuccessful and applied through a centralised portal, you may automatically progress to a second round of matching, or be placed in the eligible applicants’ bank to fill any remaining vacancies.

Do you have to do a graduate nurse program?

While graduate nurse programs are not mandatory, they are highly beneficial for new ENs and RNs transitioning into the workforce.

While some nurses may secure employment without completing a formal graduate program, a graduate nurse program may offer the following advantages:

1. Support system
   Most graduate nurse programs typically come with a support system to help ease the transition from academia to clinical practice.

   At Alfred Health in Victoria, for example, graduates are assigned a ward preceptor, a dedicated resource and mentor who assists with orientation to the clinical area. In addition, graduates also receive ongoing support from a clinical support nurse, a clinical support and development nurse and a nurse educator.

2. Diverse clinical experience
   Most programs offer at least two clinical rotations, allowing graduates to gain experience in different specialties. At Knox Private Hospital in Victoria for instance, graduates will be offered two rotations through ward areas such as oncology, rehabilitation, orthopaedics and advanced surgical.

3. Professional development
   Throughout the graduate nurse program, most hospitals provide professional development opportunities and training days to support both clinical and professional growth.

   At The Royal Melbourne Hospital, graduates participate in a clinical skills workshop and a multi-professional program designed to train staff in recognising patient deterioration and responding effectively to acute patient needs.

4. Job security
   Many graduate nurse programs offer ongoing employment opportunities after completion. While employment is not always guaranteed, hospitals often prefer to retain nurses who have successfully completed their graduate program, providing a stable career pathway.

5. Networking
   Graduate nurse programs provide valuable opportunities to build professional connections within the healthcare setting as graduates work closely with multidisciplinary teams and different types of nurses which may include clinical nurse specialists, associate nurse unit managers and nurse unit managers.

6. Dedicated learning environment
   Many graduate nursing programs offer supernumerary time, where graduates are not counted as part of the staffing numbers. This allows new nurses to observe, learn and practise essential skills in a lower-pressure environment before fully assuming their responsibilities.

Is it difficult to get into a graduate nurse program?

Yes, securing a graduate nurse program in Australia can be challenging due to high demand, limited positions and additional barriers that make entry competitive.

Some of these reasons include:

1. Limited positions with high demand
   According to the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA), more than 17,000 undergraduate nursing students graduate each year. However, the number of available graduate nurse program positions remain limited, making entry into these programs highly competitive.

   In Victoria, for example, over 3,000 students complete nursing and midwifery courses annually, yet there are only around 1,590 graduate positions available in public health services. Although private health services offer additional placements, the demand for spots still outweigh the supply.

2. Stringent requirements for graduate nurse programs
   Due to the high level of competition, health services typically have strict eligibility criteria and are highly selective when choosing candidates for their graduate nurse programs.

   Many programs seek applicants who excel across multiple areas such as having good grades, a well-structured CV and strong interview skills.

3. Hiring freezes
   While hiring freezes may not apply to all states and territories, they have had an impact in certain regions. In Victoria, for example, several hospitals announced temporary hiring freezes in 2024 due to budget constraints.The hiring freeze may have affected the number of graduate positions available, further increasing competition for spots in graduate nurse programs.

Tips on securing a spot in a graduate nurse program

While securing a spot in a graduate nurse program can be hard, you can increase your chances by using the right strategies. Here are some tips to help you stand out:

1. Make a strong impression during your clinical placement
   Your clinical placement isn’t just about gaining hands-on experience, it’s also an opportunity to build professional relationships and leave a positive impression on potential employers.

   During your clinical placement, it’s important that you demonstrate professionalism, enthusiasm and a strong work ethic. You should also take this opportunity to foster positive relationships with the team that you’re working with.

   A strong clinical placement performance also translates into a positive clinical placement report which is a key component of graduate nurse program applications.

   Most employers request for these reports as they provide insight into your skills, professionalism and ability to work in a clinical setting. A well-regarded report can set you apart from other applicants and strengthen your chances of securing a place in a graduate nurse program.

2. Customise your application
   A generic cookie-cutter application won’t help you secure a graduate nurse program as health services want to see why you’re the right fit for their program. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, take the time to research the health service, understand what they value and tailor your application accordingly.

   If you’re applying to a hospital known for oncology care, for example, don’t just mention your qualifications, explain why you’re interested in that specialty and how your clinical placements or personal experiences have influenced your decision. Make your application authentic and specific to you rather than using generic statements.

   If possible, you can also have a career coach or mentor review your application to ensure it’s compelling, highlights your strengths and is tailored to the health service you’re applying for.

3. Prepare for your interview
   Interviews can be nerve-wracking and many candidates struggle because they don’t know what to expect or are unsure of how to prepare. To start, you’ll want to see if you can find out what the interview format is, whether it’s one-on-one, panel-based or a group interview so you can prepare accordingly.

   You’ll also want to research common interview questions, structure your responses and practise them with someone you trust. Employers want to see your passion for nursing, adaptability and problem-solving skills, so focus on answering with real-life examples that showcase your strengths.

   According to the nursing and midwifery new graduate guide by the Department of Health in Victoria, hiring managers also look for graduates who:

   • Show enthusiasm for the role
   • Have considered their career path
   • Understand the importance of communication and teamwork
   • Can problem-solve and seek help when needed

4. Apply to multiple graduate nurse programs
   To increase your chances of securing a spot in a graduate nurse program, it’s recommended to apply to a variety of programs across both public and private health services. The more applications you submit, the greater your chances of being accepted into a program.

   If you’re open to relocating, consider applying for rural, remote or regional graduate nurse programs as these often have less competition and also come with additional benefits.

5. Network and seek advice
   One of the best ways to gain an advantage in the application process is to connect with those who have been through it before. Consider speaking with graduate nurses who have completed the program or senior nurses who can provide valuable insights into what to expect in the interview, how to navigate the process and what makes an application stand out.

What should you do if you didn’t get into a graduate nursing program?

Not securing a graduate nurse program can feel disheartening, especially after all the effort you put into your applications. Don’t worry, however, as there are still plenty of options available.

If you’re planning to reapply, there are several ways to strengthen your application and improve your chances. If not, there are also alternative pathways into nursing, including roles outside of traditional graduate programs. Whatever your decision, there are practical steps you can take to move forward in your career.

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What to do if you’re looking to apply again

If you plan on applying to the next round of graduate nursing programs, here are some things that you can do to bolster your application:

1. Strengthen and develop your skills
Since you’ll have about a year before the next round of applications, you can use this time to sharpen your nursing skills and make yourself a stronger and more competitive candidate.

2. Gain experience in related fields
If you plan to reapply, gaining experience in a care-related role may help strengthen your resume and make you a more competitive candidate as it allows you to further develop your skills in patient care, communication and teamwork.

Madeline Kessler, an experienced registered nurse and life coach, highlights the value of hands-on experience, “Working in a nursing home, NDIS, as a support worker or in patient transfer support are all roles that will stand out, even if you only work in them for a couple of months.”

3. Network and build professional connections
Building professional relationships may open doors to job opportunities and referrals and it’s also a great way to get valuable advice.

To expand your network, consider:

1. Joining professional organisations such as the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) and the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA). These organisations offer events, resources and networking opportunities.

2. Staying connected with nursing classmates who are already in graduate nurse programs as they can provide firsthand advice and potential job leads.

3. Engaging in online nursing communities where you can exchange insights and stay updated on industry trends.

4. Prepare for the next round of applications
This is a good opportunity to refine your application and learn from your previous experience. If you made it to the interview stage, that’s a strong sign that you have a solid written application and you should focus on honing your interview skills by practising potential interview questions, seeking feedback and perfecting your responses to ensure that you’re confident and well-prepared.

If you didn’t receive any interviews, your CV and cover letter may need more work. Take the time to refine your application and ensure that it reflects your personal experiences and strengths rather than being a generic nursing resume.

It should also show that you’ve researched the organisation and it’s important to match your language and terminology to the health service that you’re applying to. If you’re unsure of what to improve, consider seeking guidance from a career coach or mentor to fine-tune your submission.

What to do if you’re looking for alternative pathways

While missing out on a graduate nurse program can be disappointing, know however, that many nurses have been in the same position and plenty have gone on to build successful and fulfilling careers in different ways.

If you’re feeling uncertain about what to do next, here are some options to consider:

1. Apply for positions outside of graduate programs
   While hospitals are often the first choice for many graduates, there are plenty of other pathways to kickstart your nursing career.

   Consider exploring roles in:

   Aged care
   Aged care facilities are consistently hiring for nurses due to demand. These roles provide hands-on patient care experience, particularly in chronic disease management, medication administration and palliative care.

   General practitioner (GP) clinics
   Working in a general practice setting allows you to develop a broad skill set, including wound care, immunisations, health assessments and chronic disease management.

   Community health services
   Consider looking for opportunities in areas such as home health agencies, schools and community health centres.

   Other areas
   Some other areas for you to consider include working in medical imaging clinics, IVF clinics or telehealth.

2. Consider agency nursing
   Nursing agencies often hire casual and contract nurses for healthcare facilities that need extra staff. While most agencies prefer nurses with experience, some may accept new graduates, especially in high-demand areas like aged care or disability support.

3. Explore rural and remote nursing opportunities
   If you’re open to moving, working in rural or remote healthcare can be an excellent way to start your nursing career. Many rural and remote hospitals and aged care facilities are more willing to train new graduates due to the high demand for nurses in these areas.

   Rural nursing can also potentially offer more opportunities for hands-on experience, a broader scope of practice compared to metro settings and the potential for sponsorship, relocation assistance or financial incentives.

4. Reach out to your contacts
   Consider reaching out to the healthcare facilities where you completed your clinical placements to see if they’re hiring. Since you’ve already gained hands-on experience with them, they may be more open to considering you for a role.

   If that’s not an option, consider reaching out to mentors or fellow nursing graduates to see if they know of any potential job openings or have suggestions on alternative pathways to pursue.

Starting your nursing journey

Missing out on a graduate nurse program doesn’t mean your nursing career is over, it just means that your path may look different to others. Whether you choose to reapply next year or jump into the workforce, there are plenty of opportunities to build a successful and fulfilling career in nursing.

At GlobalHealth Education, our university partners offer a range of healthcare courses designed to help you develop skills in nursing, healthcare leadership and more. If you’re interested in exploring further study options, you can select a course and speak with a Student Enrolment Advisor to find out more.