travel nursing in australia reddit

Community tours

Our Packages

AUSTRALIA DESTINATIONS

Who Are We?

Travel Resources

• Start Your Adventure

Employment in Australia

How to get a job as a nurse in australia.

Darryl Newby

Posted on 28 september 2020.

Confused about how to get a job as a nurse in Australia? Read on!

Moving abroad is always going to be challenging, especially when you plan to go on a Working Holiday type adventure. The Holiday part is arguably the more appealing part of such a visa, with the Working part being a major point of stress for most travellers. Finding a job in a completely new country can be a daunting task. Especially if you do not have the resources or knowledge to point you in the right direction when you find yourself looking for a job abroad. With that said, we thought it would be helpful to our wonderful nurses out there to share some tips from our travellers on how to get a nursing job while travelling in Australia.

In Australia, most working holiday visa holders are finding it relatively easy to obtain a job within the hospitality/retail sectors or trade services . Despite these being the most common roles you should not be deterred from applying for a more specialized role/industry if you feel you have the skills or qualifications needed to fulfil such a job. Many WHV holders are mid-late 20s and early 30s who already have a degree/qualifications and a few years minimum experience in a specific field.

Here at Welcome to Travel we offer each of our travellers the support, resources and contacts they need to begin their job hunt in Australia. We’ve seen our travel community obtaining jobs in a range of industries all over the country and a few have agreed to share their experiences with us. So without further ado, here are the steps you need to take to find a nursing job while travelling in Australia.

The following tips were shared with us from two wonderful ex-travellers, Gemma Thompson and Ruth Dickinson.

Gemma Thompson

What is your profession? Registered nurse

What is your home country? Northern Ireland

How long have you worked in this profession? I have been nursing for 4 years

Did you need to get any qualifications updated or translated or changed to Australian qualifications standard?

The most difficult part of getting set up to nurse in Australia was getting my AHPRA registration . Which is the regulatory body for registered nurses in Australia (equivalent to the NMC in the UK). It is a long a costly process and took me nearly 8 months in total from applying for AHPRA to getting on the register. For anyone that is planning to come out to Australia to nurse I would recommend applying for AHPRA around 6 months before flying out. Another thing to note is a full medical is required when applying for your visa if you state on your application you are planning to work in a health care setting. There are a small amount of approved visa medical testing centres in the UK and Ireland and it costs approx. £350.

Did you have to pass any new tests/exams? No exams thankfully

How easy did you find getting work in your profession, in Australia ? I wanted to work casual agency shifts to give me the freedom to travel and have time off when i wanted. So I’m not really able to give much advice on finding permanent jobs. I did find it difficult getting nursing work initially. If you are working for a nursing agency sometimes there are not many shifts going in the cities, particularly in the inner suburbs as there is high demand for these shifts. A lot of nurses I met in Melbourne found the same problem. However, there are still loads of job opportunities available. The best thing I did was join the casual pool at one of the private hospitals. They are also always looking for rural and remote nurses.

Who was it that you worked for? I signed up for a few nursing agencies when I arrived to Australia and applied to the casual pool/bank in a few of the private hospitals giving me access to work shifts where and when suited me which was great. When lockdown hit, I managed to get regular agency work COVID-19 screening.

How does the standard wage compare from your profession in your home country? The wage is definitely better than in the UK. You can expect to earn around 40-55 AUD per hour depending on how long you’ve been qualified, where and what shift you are working. There are also enhanced rates for nurses in specialised areas such as ICU, CCU and emergency nursing.

What advice would you give to someone looking to work in your profession, in Australia? Like I said previously, getting set up to nurse is a very long and expensive process and I would highly recommend applying for AHPRA around 6 months before flying out. Be prepared for a lot of hidden costs that I know I wasn’t expecting including solicitors fees for certifying documents, the medical and applying for a working with children’s check when I arrived in Melbourne. I would also recommend getting in contact and signing up with few nursing agencies prior to flying out. A few agencies are I signed up with are Healthcare Australia, Swing Shift Nurses and YNA . It’s really easy to sign up and all these agencies will help you with the AHPRA process before you arrive in Australia. It’s been a great experience and once you get working will easily earn the money back.

Before we jump onto Ruth’s insight we just want to say thank you to medical professionals have unselfishly given so much in this global pandemic.

Whether you’re coming over to work or need a getaway, we have had nurses at all stages of their careers on our award winning tours.

If you’re thinking of coming over to Australia, we’ll send you a discount code and some more helpful tips.

Now back onto some more helpful nursing tips…

Ruth Dickinson

What is your profession? Nursing

What is your Home Country? UK

How long have you worked in this profession?   Worked for 11 years in adult nursing in total but worked in Australia for about 6 months.

Did you need to get any qualifications updated or translated or changed to Australian qualifications standard? For myself, I didn’t need to get any qualifications updated or translated but depending on which country you are from or level of qualification you hold from your home country, this may need translating or converting (Australia has a degree type system for nursing qualification, so if you hold a diploma, as an example, you may need to top up with an extra course to make it an equivalent to the Australian qualification).

Did you have to pass any new tests/exams? For myself I didn’t need to pass any extra tests or exams, but this may be required depending on the qualification you hold and how this translates to the Australian qualification.

How easy did you find getting work in your profession in Australia? Fairly easy as I had to have a letter of an offer of employment as a minimum, or a definite job to arrive to in order to complete my Australian Nursing registration with the Australian Nursing Registration board. I unfortunately arrived at a time when there was a lull in agency work (I arrived in late October) so ease in. Getting agency shifts or contracted work may depend on the time of year that you arrive.

Who was it that you worked for? I worked for an agency called Swing Shift Nurses which is an agency that is based in Melbourne only.

How does the standard wage compare from your profession in your home country? Australia wins certainly in terms of agency.

What advice would you give to someone looking to work in your profession in Australia? 1) Be prepared to move around for work as there may not always be work in one particular area, whether that is geographical area or area of expertise.

2) Be mindful of the time of year that you arrive in Australia, as there are peak seasons for agency and contracted work which may impact on your plans for work and travel . This may be hard to accomplish depending on how quick you get your registration in principle, how much longer you have left to physically land in Australia before your visa runs out etc so be aware that your plans may change due to these factors.

3) Embrace opportunities that are given to you whilst ensuring that you are safe to practice. It’s an interesting place to work and found that there times where people were happy to support, encourage and give advice.

Profession Checklist: are you able to give us a step by step checklist for finding work?

Apply for your Nursing Registration via the AHPRA website. This is where you will find all the information for applying for your registration and what requirements you need.

Ensure all documents are in place (qualifications/translations if appropriate, proof of identification etc)

Have an address that post can be forwarded to (this can be a hostel that you have stayed/staying at or friends house) so that your registration card and details can be posted to you.

Once your application is processed, ensure you have got your registration in principal prior to arriving.

Once you have arrived, ensure you retain documentation of proof of arrival to Australia as you will be given a period of up to about 6 weeks to physically go to the AHPRA offices to present remaining documentation (such as proof of arrival) to complete your registration. Proof of arrival can either be in the form of a stamped passport (which will be needed anyway for identification) or in the form of plane tickets. The documents that you require will be outlined prior to arrival and you must present yourself to the offices of the state that you applied to. As an example, I knew that wanted to start in Melbourne, so my AHPRA application went to the offices for the state of Victoria (in Melbourne city centre) and therefore I had to go to these offices once I landed to finalise my application.

In relation to finding work I searched on google for nursing agencies (although agencies such as Swing Shift Nurses, Geneva or HCA are just a few to look at) and then applied/contacted Swing Shift Nurses through their website in order to gain information and had a phone interview once committed to working for them. If there is a specific Hospital/Hospital group that you know you want to work for, then it would be worth looking online for contact information for their HR to then sort out application processes and gather information in regards to the sort of work they may be able to offer you.

Thank you to both Ruth and Gemma for helping future travelling nurses making it easier to come to Australia. You still may have some questions about visas or how to get set up in Australia, just go to our contact page and we will be more than happy to help.

Share This Post

5 thoughts on “how to get a job as a nurse in australia”.

Hi madam I’m tariq aziz from Pakistan I want to move as a registered nurse to Australia for a job I have done my bachelor’s and currently doing my job in the public sector in Pakistan with 3 years of experience. can I apply directly from my home country? and is there is any pre-exam? And what will be the total cost of this process? Regards,

Hi sir l am Amare Teferie from Ethiopia l want to move as an assistant nurse to Auestralia for a job l have done by bacheler degree and 10 year experiance.can l apply directly from Ethiopia?

I am interested to do by nursing in auestralia.because best country.

I am a registered nurse (BSc hons) in UK, 30yrs old, working in theatres for the last 6 years. I’m taking a year out in October to go travelling, mainly to Australia. I’m applying for the WHV (I think it’s the the 417) as theve changing rules next year, with not having to partake in the 88 days work. I mainly want to just travel, but have a feeling im going to want to not come home! So I am keen to potentially venture into some work, but just not sure “how easy” this will be? I know I need to get a AHPRA registration and shifts on agency’s can be regional, but after reading the post it seems quite strict such as do I need to let the government know? so just wondering if anyone has done anything similar, or had any advice please? Greatly appreciated

Hi, Im a Registered Nurse in Philippines and currently working now in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, planning to apply in Australia, anyone can help me here to to process and where I can get the agency? And what are those requirements? thank you

Comments are closed.

You Might Like...

Don’t Be Scared To Quit Your Job And Go Travelling

If you asked me five years ago where I’d be today, I don’t think my answer would have been working at a honey factory in Australia. In fact, I don’t

What You Need For A Working Holiday In Australia

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZm2jxi7iDU&t=1263s We had the privilege to catch up with Christianne Risman aka Backpacking Bananas and talked about exactly what you need for a working holiday for when you come to Australia.

Backpacken in Australië

Hoe mijn reis van 7 weken nu al 5 jaar duurt Je hebt de verhalen vast wel eens gehoord. Een vriend of vriendin gaat een tijdje backpacken, wordt verliefd (op

• [email protected]
• (03) 7065 9970
• 6b 300 King Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
• 812B, George Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000

Work With Us

BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN A 30 DAY EAST COAST TOUR

• Working Visa Australia
• Family Visa Australia
• Australia Business Visa
• Working Holiday Visa Australia
• Australian Tourist Visa
• Student Visa Australia
• Why Australia
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Our Legal Consultants

Ron Ford immigrated with his family to Australia in 2005 to work as a social worker. Following their difficult immigration process, he slowly turned to blogging and creating content about immigration: "…As a family of 5, we struggled to make ends meet. I was working around the clock and Clarissa was working in housekeeping any time she could spare. The move to Australia completely changed our lives, but it cost us a lot of money, time, and tears. Ever since I've wanted to help others on their journeys the way I wished someone had helped us".

If you would like to discuss your Aged Care Learning needs and how the HCA LMS might match your organisational requirements, contact us today.

Related insights

Ndia pace system - what it means for participants, sandy's shift: from a new zealand ed to travel nursing down under, kelly ramsdale, registered nurse sa, get in touch, what can we assist you with, get in touch.

What is 7+4?

Get Free NDIS advice

• Allied Services (E.g. physiotherapy / occupational therapy)
• Concierge Services
• Community Access (socialising, appointments etc)
• Nursing and complex care
• Personal Services (E.g. dressing / grooming / getting around etc)
• Supported Independent Living (SIL)
• I'm not sure

Get free Home Care advice

• Home Help (E.g. domestic assistance / meals/ medication support)
• Nursing& Specialist Care (E.g. nursing /. allied heallth)
• Family & Respite (E.g. In-home respite/overnight respite)
• Out & About (E.g. Social outings / transport)
• Flu Vaccinations
• Skin Checks
• Health Checks / Wellbeing Programs
• In Home - Disability
• In Home - Aged
• Community Access
• Supported Independent Living
• Specialist Disability Accommodation
• Youth Residential out of Home Care

Register to receive relevant jobs

By filling in this form, you are providing permission for Healthcare Australia to contact you via email, phone or SMS.

Request Demo

Enter some simple information and get your free demo.

Please complete the form below to apply for this position

• Recruitment
• Allied Health
• NDIS and Disability
• Corporate health
• Training your staff
• A & E, Critical Care & ICU
• Agency Nurses
• Clinical Coder
• Community, Maternal & Child
• Customer stories
• Disability services (NDIS)
• Falls and Balance
• HCA Rewards
• Healthcare Australia
• Human Resources & Recruitment
• ICU Nursing
• Marketing & Communications
• Occupational Therapist
• Overseas Applicants
• Overseas Nurses
• Permanent Nurses
• Rural and Remote
• Stories & news
• Support Worker Stories
• Support Workers
• Work in the UK

How to Become an International Travel Nurse

NurseJournal.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

• Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
• Provide specific, corrective feedback.
• Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for NurseJournal.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

• What Is an International Travel Nurse
• Steps to Become

Choosing a Specialization

• Credentials

Great pay and boundless opportunities are just some reasons why nurses choose travel nursing. The job options are a good fit for nurses who love to travel, discover new places, and want to broaden their skill set.

Travel nurses help temporarily fill shortages. In the U.S., assignments may range from 13-26 weeks, but international assignments are often at least one year.

European countries offer some of the highest-paying jobs. Benefits can include a housing stipend, travel costs, and partially covering food and other living expenses.

Travel nursing jobs within the U.S. are simple to arrange. Travel nursing internationally, however, has a few added prerequisites.

Discover how to become an international travel nurse, types of assignments available, and the required certifications.

How Long to Become: 4-6 years

Degree Required: ADN, BSN, or MSN

Job Outlook: 6% growth, 2021-2031 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

What Is an International Travel Nurse?

There is a global nursing shortage . Countries with shortages need to increase nurse graduates by an average of 8% annually. One out of every eight nurses works in a country where they were not born or trained. This is what international travel nursing looks like.

Travel nursing is available domestically. But you can also choose to travel and work internationally.

Nursing shortages have hit countries across the world and they require medical personnel to fill their needs. This offers travel nurses an opportunity to expand their skills and learn new medical techniques.

Many countries need to fill positions in nursing specialties . Hospitals, doctors’ offices, and outpatient care clinics are just some of the settings in need of international travel nurses.

The most sought-after nurses often have experience in emergency rooms (ERs)/ emergency departments (EDs) as an ER nurse , intensive care, and cardiac care. Nurses with experience as a labor and delivery nurse and in neonatal nurse care are also desirable.

Steps to Becoming an International Travel Nurse

Becoming an international travel nurse is much like working as a domestic travel nurse. However, there may be additional requirements depending on your destination.

A nurse must hold licensure from the state board of nursing , which confers the registered nurse (RN) credential.

Earning this requires passing the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN). Some states have additional requirements.

To start your journey as an international travel nurse, take the following steps:

Earn a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree.

International travel nursing demands high-level nursing skills in your specialization. This starts with earning a four-year bachelor of science in nursing degree from an accredited school.

A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) improves patient care and prepares you for leadership and management positions.

Nurses with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) may enroll in an RN-to-BSN degree bridge program to complete their BSN. If you are entering a BSN program with a bachelor’s in another field, consider accelerated nursing programs .

Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing offers the NCLEX exam . It is a national exam all U.S states accept. The test demonstrates your clinical competency in nursing and decides if your state will issue you a nursing license.

To take the exam, you must hold either an ADN or BSN, which can also help you develop a NCLEX study plan . You are tested on care management, pharmacology, and safety and infection control, among other areas. NCLEX practice questions are available through various study sites.

Gain experience.

To work and travel domestically, the best travel nursing agencies may want you to have at least one year of experience in your specialty. However, international travel nursing positions may require even more experience or nursing certifications . This depends on the country and the facility you’ll work from.

Earn proper credentials.

Domestic travel nursing requires that you have a nursing license in the state where you will be working. For international travel nursing, your destination country may have a longer list of requirements.

This list can include a valid passport, visa to work in the country, and vaccinations needed before traveling . Some facilities may require special certifications. Others may require a language test to demonstrate proficiency before travel.

Find employment.

International travel nurses may work in hospitals, doctors’ offices, or outpatient clinics. While it’s not necessary to work with a travel nursing agency, it can help you look for work, finalize your contract, and move.

Note the length of your contract as you decide on your location. Domestic travel nurses often work 13-26 weeks. International nurses may be offered one- or two-year contracts.

International Travel Nurse Schooling

As you consider your options as a travel nurse, know the educational and skill requirements you may need. Most organizations prefer a BSN degree.

To work internationally, you need an undergraduate degree in nursing from a four-year program, such as an in-person or online BSN program . To apply for a graduate-level program, students often must hold a BSN.

Admission Requirements

Program curriculum, time to complete, skills learned.

Whether choosing to work in a nursing specialization or advancing your career through a graduate program , nursing offers the opportunity to specialize. Nurses graduating from a BSN program can choose to become certified in a specialty, which demonstrates their advanced knowledge.

For example, nurses may choose certification as a rehabilitation nurse , a pain management nurse , or in cardiac care.

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) can choose to practice as a family nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology nurse practitioner , acute care nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, certified registered nurse anesthetis t, and more.

The specialty you choose will help determine your opportunities as an international travel nurse.

International Travel Nurse Credentials

International travel nurses need a nursing license in the U.S. An APRN needs to take the certification exam in their specialty. After these two requirements, you will need a passport, visa, work permit, and any sponsorship for your destination country.

Each country may have its own list of necessary documentation. This can include professional references, birth certificates, immunization records, and proof that you can speak the language.

Certifications

APRNs need certification in their specialty field. For example, those who want to become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) must pass the FNP certification exam. This is a valid, reliable demonstration of your competency in the field.

An RN may choose to have certifications that demonstrate advanced knowledge in rehabilitation nursing, pain management, or other specialty areas. Professional associations offer certifications that have specific requirements to maintain the credential.

Nursing requires state licensure that confers the credential of RN on the nursing candidate. To get the license, nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN.

Additional requirements depend on the state, including background and fingerprint checks, or school transcripts. Each state board of nursing has requirements to maintain licensure, including continuing education .

Working as an International Travel Nurse

Nursing gives you a unique opportunity to work and travel the world. The severe global nursing shortage has opened up opportunities for nurses who work in operating and emergency rooms, cardiac and neonatal units, and other specialties.

Countries with the highest salaries for travel nurses are Luxembourg, Switzerland, and the United States. However, they also have the highest cost of living. The average salary is $115,020 per year according to ZipRecruiter as of January 2023, or about $2,210 per week.

The simplest way to get into international travel nursing is to sign up with an agency that works with international organizations. They help refine your travel search based on your skills and past work experience.

Consider testing the waters as a travel nurse within the U.S. before exploring long-term contracts overseas.

Another option is working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD, which has international jobs for nurses. The DoD works with you to ensure you have the necessary documentation to work overseas. You can receive job alerts for their international postings.

Beyond documentation, you need skills. Nurses should have communication, conflict resolution, and team player skills. Without a strong command of the local language, it is impossible to be successful.

The following are some common workplace settings for international travel nurses. Note that your specializations and certifications will help determine the positions available to you.

Organizations seek nurses who have specialty skills in the intensive care unit, emergency room, telemetry, or the operating room. These areas require critical thinking for nurses , initiative, and leadership.

Outpatient Care Clinics

In an outpatient setting, nurses must be proficient at triage, assessment, educating patients, starting IVs, and RN case management .

Doctors’ Offices

In a doctor’s office, a nurse needs mastery of communication, assessment, medication administration, wound management, and minor medical procedures.

Becoming an International Travel Nurse: FAQs

Do travel nurses go internationally.

Travel nurses can choose to travel domestically or internationally. To travel and work overseas, you need a license and certification in your specialty, passport, and work visa. You may also need to take a language test to prove proficiency and provide reference letters. While domestic travel assignments can last up to 26 weeks, international ones can last up to two years.

How much do international travel nurses make?

Travel nurses are well paid to offset the stress of living and working away from home. Travel nurse salaries depend on your nursing specialty and country placement. Your compensation package includes an hourly salary, housing stipend, and travel expenses. It may also cover food and other living expenses.

How do I become an international nurse?

The first step is to earn your BSN from an accredited school. After graduation, you must pass the NCLEX-RN and apply for a license in your state. Most travel agencies want new nurses to have at least one year of bedside experience. Many recommend two years to gain proficiency in a specialty to practice internationally.

Once accepted by an agency, it can take up to one year to gather the necessary documents required by the country if you do not already have them. This can include a passport, work visa, recommendation letters, and testing in the language. Some countries may also require sponsorship.

Where is the best place to work as an international travel nurse?

International travel nursing is an opportunity to travel overseas while working. The best place depends on your goals. For example, Luxembourg is one of the highest-paying countries, but they also have a high cost of living. Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia do not require learning a new language. The Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, and Bolivia can offer a chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Learn More About International Travel Nurses

10 Tips for Nurses Interested in International Travel Nursing

International travel nursing offers you the chance to globe-trot while getting paid. These 10 tips can help you navigate travel issues that may arise.

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

Travel nurses can earn more than other RNs. Learn more about travel nurse pay rate, benefits, and tax breaks. Identify the highest-paying states and travel nurse specialities.

Military Nurse Career Overview

Military nurses work in fast-paced environments, caring for enlisted soldiers and their families. Learn about how to become one in the guide below.

Missionary Nurse Career Overview

Missionary nurses travel overseas to deliver nursing care and Christian counseling. See how you can become a missionary nurse and learn more about what they do.

Page last reviewed January 23, 2023

13 Pros and Cons of Being a Travel Nurse

So, if you have found yourself here, then you must be considering a career as a travel nurse. For starters, having a job as a travel nurse will enable you to see the country and all that it has to offer. This may sound like a dream to some people, but as with any job, you will find pros and cons, and travel nursing is no different. Mapping out the pros and cons of being a travel nurse can be a tedious endeavor, but rest assured I am here to help you out with that feat. If you keep reading below, you will find the top 13 pros and cons of being a travel nurse. This article will surely help you decide if this is the right career choice for you.

TOP CONS OF BEING A TRAVEL NURSE

1. you will always find yourself in an unfamiliar environment., 2. you will always be the new guy., 3. varying pay rates, 4. what do you do when your contract has ended, 5. not the best work assignments, 6. license issues, 7. floating, 8. your contract can be canceled., 9. you may not have your dream schedule., 10. you may become homesick., 11. where are you going to live, 12. your taxes could be a nightmare., 13. you may not have paid time off., top pros of being a travel nurse, 1. great pay., 2. you will have a tax-free living stipend., 3. you get the chance to travel., 4. you will make new friends., 5. you can avoid all the politics at work., 6. you will gain experience., 7. flexibility, 8. you can try before you dive all in., 9. travel nursing can be a networking event., 10. you can choose your adventure., 11. you will learn life skills., 12. job security, 13. reimbursement, the bottomline.

Travel Nursing in Australia

Home » Travel Nursing in Australia

Travel nursing in Australia is a great option in international travel nursing if you want to be both adventurous and speaking English.  Nursing in Australia is possible only if you’ve registered through the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency, or AHPRA. Like the US, each Australian state capital has its own office, but there is no exam you have to pass to become a Registered Nurse in Australia. In order to go travel nursing in Australia, you just have to have the proper schooling and experience with verifiable proof of both.

Just hearing back from the AHPRA can take months so if you’re interested in travel nursing in Australia you should start the application right now. You’ll be sent a list of all the necessary documents from your employers and nursing school. Some of these documents include your nurse school transcript where they expect to see that you’ve taken a class in Medication Administration and Pharmacology. They’ll want to see over 800 hours logged in a clinical setting.

The board will also need employment verification from your current employer and your last 5 years of employment. The AHPRA does require letters from your employers that must include information about your employment such as the length of your employment if your employment was part time or full time and it must be on a company letterhead. You will have to sign each and every page of your Resume/CV as well. The AHPRA will want to see all the different state licenses you’ve obtained.

The AHPRA may also ask for details of your clinical time and a letter from your high school to ensure that your education was in English. If you cannot get this letter from your high school you can take the IELTS. Most travel nurses also must take the International English Language Testing System exam, or the IELTS, to prove they can speak English, but US citizens are exempt.

The application fee is $576 AU and the application process usually takes around 7 months. Once you’ve gotten your license, you’re free to look for a job ! Your Australian registration also enables you to apply to be a travel nurse in New Zealand with relative ease. That process is kind of like nursing in one US state and getting a license to work in another state.

You will have to obtain a Visa to work. The varying types of Visas you can apply for depend on your age. If you are under 30 you can successfully apply for a Work-Holiday Visa if you can pass a criminal background check. These Work-Holiday Visas usually last for up to 12 months and the only caveat is that you may not work for the same employer for more than 6 months. Essentially after working at a hospital for 6 months, you have to switch to another hospital for the next 6 months.

If you are over 30 years old you have to apply for a Sponsorship Visa. In order to obtain a Sponsorship Visa, a hospital has to sponsor you and Sponsorship Visas will be valid for up to 4 years. If after 4 years you still want to live and work in Australia you can apply for a permanent residency. The island is sparsely populated so they’re very open to immigration these days.

There are 2 ways travel nurses can go about taking nursing assignments. One is per diem and the other is by taking lengthy contracts. If you work Per Diem you get the flexibility of switching locations much more easily. While contract working does provide stability, those contracts can tie you down to one location for the duration of your visa.

Switching facilities every day is made easier by the fact that the majority of hospitals in Australia still use paper charting. Only a handful of the hospitals situated around universities has electronic health records. But since you don’t have to learn a new computer charting system each time, switches occur much more seamlessly than in the United States as new nurses hardly need a five-minute orientation. Just good luck making out everyone’s handwriting! 😉

Depending on your nursing specialty , travel nursing in Australia offers pay rates that aren’t as high as California, but are relatively close to the pay rates in Florida. If you want to take the next step for travel nursing in Australia, finding an agency is just a google search away and every website is in English.  We’d recommend searching for Healthcare Australia’s Nursing Down Under!

Australia Nursing Council: 683 Murray Street West Perth, 6005 WA, Australia +61-8-9481-2488

http://www.australia-migration.com/page/Nurses_ANC/257

General Information Email:  [email protected]

Overseas Information Email:  [email protected]

PC:  @kaylaahussey

Related Posts:

• Travel Nursing in New Zealand
• International Travel Nursing 101
• Travel Nurse FAQ
• All Aboard! The Travel Nursing Europe Express!
• How to Become a Travel Nurse
• How to Become a Vocational Nurse: Steps, Training,…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• General Nursing
• Nursing Specialties
• Nursing Students
• United States Nursing
• World Nursing
• Boards of Nursing
• Breakroom / Clubs
• Nurse Q&A
• Student Q&A
• Fastest BSN
• Most Affordable BSN
• Fastest MSN
• Most Affordable MSN
• Best RN to BSN
• Fastest RN to BSN
• Most Affordable RN to BSN
• Best LPN/LVN
• Fastest LPN/LVN
• Most Affordable LPN/LVN
• Fastest DNP
• Most Affordable DNP
• Medical Assistant
• Best Online Medical Assistant
• Best Accelerated Medical Assistant
• Most Affordable Medical Assistant
• Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric NP
• Neonatal NP
• Oncology NP
• Acute Care NP
• Aesthetic NP
• Women's Health NP
• Adult-Gerontology NP
• Emergency NP
• Best RN to NP
• Psychiatric-Mental Health NP
• RN Specialties
• Best RN Jobs and Salaries
• Aesthetic Nurse
• Nursing Informatics
• Nurse Case Manager
• Forensic Nurse
• Labor and Delivery Nurse
• Psychiatric Nurse
• Pediatric Nurse
• Travel Nurse
• Telemetry Nurse
• Dermatology Nurse
• Best NP Jobs and Salaries
• Family NP (FNP)
• Orthopedic NP
• Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP)
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Administrator
• Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
• Best Free Online NCLEX-RN Study Guide
• The Nursing Process
• Question Leveling
• NCLEX-RN Question Identification
• Expert NCLEX-RN Test-Taking Strategies
• Best Scrubs for Nurses
• Best Shoes for Nurses
• Best Stethoscopes for Nurses
• Best Gifts for Nurses
• Undergraduate
• How to Become an LPN/LVN
• How to Earn an ADN
• Differences Between ADN, ASN, AAS
• How to Earn a BSN
• Best MSN Concentrations
• Is an MSN Worth It?
• How to Earn a DNP
• MSN vs. DNP

Canadian Nurse Interested in Australia

World Immigration

Published Apr 23, 2012

I am a Canadian nursing student (graduating May 2013) interested in working and living in Australia. It has been my goal for several years now to work/live in Australia and I have a few questions. My ideal location to live in Australia would be QLD.

First some background info on myself:

I am a 21 year old nursing student enrolled in a top Canadian University in an accelerated BScN program. The educational prerequisites for the accelerated program was a previous university degree with specific science courses (physiology, statistics, biochemistry, etc). The accelerated program is 2 years and I will be graduating in May 2013 with a Bachelors of Science in nursing, as fully qualified RN (after I take my qualifying exam). I have also have a previously earned bachelor's of science degree in biological science.

My plan has been to work in Canada for 2 years as an RN before working in Australia. However, is it necessary that I have previous work experience in Canada, or would I still be able to be qualified in Australia to work as an RN without it?

Another question is, since I am Canadian, I am able to apply for a 1 year work visa. Would it be easiest to, upon graduation, seek accreditation from the AHPRA then apply for the 1 year working visa? Then I could find an employer to hire (and sponsor me) for a longer term (possibly permanent) visa. I feel that this may be the best option, as I will be able to meet employers face to face and therefore have a better shot at obtaining a job. Would this be an acceptable route to living/working in Australia as a nurse?

Also, there are many companies that assist in (for a fee) relocating foreign nurses to Australia and organizing their visa and work placements. Are these companies a waste of money, or is it manageable to work through acquiring international visas and nursing accreditation on one's own?

Last question: Since my degree is an accelerated one, will this have any bearing on acquiring accreditation in Australia?

Sorry for the wall of text, but if anyone has any insight into how to begin the process of immigrating from Canada to Australia as a nurse please let me know! I visited Australia a couple of years ago, and ever since I have been dreaming of coming back.

Thank you so much.

• + Add a Comment

stephanie2012

Is Australia so charming ?

HandsomeLegs

You'll love Australia! I'm a British Nurse and made the move 10 years ago, firstly to Sydney in New South Wales and now to the Gold Coast in Queensland.

I'm not sure if you're aware of it, but the Gold coast gets a brand new tertiary hospital due to open in April 2013 and Queensland Health are about to start a recruitment drive to obtain about (sorry aboot :-) ) 200 Nurses.

If you can get an agency to help with your accreditation, sponsorship visa and recruitment I would recommend it. Try and go for an agency that won't charge a fee, to you (they charge a finders fee to the hospital). The application process can otherwise seem a bit daunting.

Even if you can't find an agency and that ascent to accreditation and sponsorship looks a little steep, go for it. Plenty of people do it on there own. First get your accreditation from AHPRA. Having it under your belt will look very good on a job application. Most hospitals in Australia are very happy to sponsor your visa. It costs them money though so may try and get you into a contract that secures a partnership with a penalty should you not stay. Not good if you end up wanting to leave and work elsewhere. They will also probably insist on you having private health cover because as your sponsors they would otherwise be responsible for all your healthcare if you became sick or injured.

On a work visa, you would of course get that freedom to work wherever your heart might take you but its worth remembering that you won't be able to work anywhere for longer than three months. Depressing if you just found your dream job and made great friends. Perhaps you should look into obtaining Permanent Residency. It's what I have. It lets you live here indefinitely and you can work wherever you like. And oh... your accelerated degree won't be a problem.

This is an amazing country and Queensland is probably the best state. The Gold Coast is a great place to live and the new University Hospital looks like it's going to be a great place to work.

Hope this is a bit of help. Good luck.

Have a look at the website Welcome to the Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH)

In the last 2 years Australian Universities have supplied more graduates than there were positions for graduate nurses in the health system. Therefore it would be better to get experience before applying to work in Australia.

I realize this is over a year since you posted now but if you have questions I'm happy to help. The process is beyond tedious and I am going through it now. Sent my application after over a month of collecting data then once it went through they asked for even more things beyond the initial application form. You could apply for places to relocate you but I don't know of anyone who has done this. There's tons of nursing agencies here who pay well but choose wisely. I can't work here yet because of the stupidly complicated application process & they are still demanding more details from me. But in my experience so far there's jobs to be applied for. Some places like I know the Children's Hospital seem to encourage intl applicants. No idea where you're at now but I HIGHLY recommend having experience beforehand which I think you would have by now. Anyways feel free to message me if you have questions about the application process. If you download the intl application form on the AHPRA website you'll see what I mean & what kinds of things you need. Not fun but it is truly a beautiful place to live & work! I'm here primarily for school (masters) but hope to work soon if they ever let me do so :)

francoisdemers

Hi, my name is Francois. I am a RN from Quebec and am starting the application process to work in Australia. OMG. This is way more complex then I tough. Could someone help me with the different steps, perharps somebody whOs done it already.

I have a bachelor in Nursing and 1 year of internal med + 6 months of E.R. + 4 months of volunteer medical work in Africa and India.

Thank you for your help!

Silverdragon102, BSN

1 Article; 39,477 Posts

Starting point would be the AHPRA website

Hi ! my boyfriend and I would like help in the process. It's the first time i heard about agencies

I just came across your post and would love for you to give me some details and advice on travelling in australia... I am graduating in 2018 from a Canadian University and will have my bachelor of Science in Nursing. I aspire to move to Australia as soon as I can. What is the process like and what do I need to do? If you have the time I would love to correspond by email : [email protected]

Hope to hear from you!

dishes, BSN, RN

3,950 Posts

@abmac Does your nursing school have a study abroad program? If so, do they have placements in Australia that you can participate in? The university of Saskatchewan nursing college has a 5-week clinical experience exchange program with a university in Australia. It seems like a great opportunity to learn about nursing in Australia before making a decision to move there as a nurse.

For those who have gone through the AHPRA application process, just working on the skills section for my resume. Did you do more general skills such as:

• Assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care for patients according to accepted nursing practice and standards
• Working in collaboration with a multidisciplinary healthcare team to coordinate the care of patients in an acute care environment

Or more specific skills like:

• Medication administration via oral, rectal, topical, subcutaneous, intramuscular, and intravenous routes
• Urinary catheter insertion, care, and removal

Thanks for your advice!

To come to Australia, it is easy.

Your Registration and English is ok under mutual agreement with your Board.

You can apply directly for job under 457 visa

Go to Australian immigration site, register under 'skill select' on-line for PR, then you can find a job wherever you like.

Working Holiday is an easy way to enter and fish out the best visa for you.

QlD is tropical and good place and lot of opportunities in rural settings

How to Make the Most Money as a Travel Nurse

What is a travel nurse.

• How to Become
• Travel Nurse Salary
• Salary by State
• Travel Nurse vs Staff Nurse Salary
• Salary Factors
• Making the Most Money
• Highest Paying Assignments

A  travel nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who works in short-term roles at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities worldwide. Daily  travel nurse duties are often similar to traditional RN roles, but their flexibility allows them to fill gaps in areas with nursing shortages. As a result, the average travel nurse's salary can be quite high!

>> Click here to see available high-paying travel nurse opportunities!

During the COVID-19 pandemic, travel nurses were seeing some of the highest pay packages ever because of the overwhelming need for nurses, especially in hot spots like New York, Florida, and California. While pay packages might not be as high as they were a few years ago, there is still significant money to be made for those interested in pursuing travel nursing.

But, there are still a number of factors you need to consider when it comes to your travel nurse salary. Here's what you need to know to navigate pay as a travel nurse.

Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Enrollment: Nationwide

• MSN - Family NP
• MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Education
• MSN - Health Informatics
• MSN - Public Health Nursing
• MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
• MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
• See more GCU nursing programs

At Purdue Global, discover a faster, more affordable way to earn your Nursing degree. Purdue Global is committed to keeping your tuition costs as low as possible and helping you find the most efficient path to your degree.

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

• Accelerated BSN-to-MSN
• MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• MSN - Nurse Educator
• MSN - Executive Leader
• MSN - Nurse Informatics
• MSN/MBA Dual Degree
• See more Purdue nursing programs

Capella’s online RN-to-BSN degree is an accredited program designed for working nurses. Thousands of nurses have completed their BSN program with FlexPath, that allows you to control your pace and set your own deadlines. With FlexPath, you can complete your RN-to-BSN program in 9 months and under $10,000. Fastest 25% of students. Cost varies by pace, transfer credits, other factors. Fees apply.

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Capella for details.

• MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Informatics
• MSN - Care Coordination
• MSN - Nursing Leadership & Admin
• See more Capella nursing programs

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• BSN-to-MSN - Family NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management
• See more WGU nursing programs

How to Become a Travel Nurse 

Travel nurses do need a few requirements before being considered, including being a registered nurse with a license in good standing, and typically 2 years of nursing experience. They don't need any additional certifications or credentials other than the ones they need for their specific specialty. 

While a BSN is not required to become a travel nurse, it will open more opportunities to nurses such as Magnet hospitals and Level 1 trauma centers. Without a BSN, your options might be more limited. 

How Much Money Do Travel Nurses Make? 

Under normal circumstances, many travel nurses have the potential to earn over $3,000 per week. Travel nurses can bring in over  $50 per hour, plus company-paid housing accommodations. Making it entirely possible for travel nurses to make well over $100K per year.

Travel Nurse Salary by State

Source:  Ziprecruiter

>> Show Me Online Nursing Programs  

How Does Travel Nurse Pay Differ From Staff Nurse Pay? 

Staff nurses  in a hospital are usually paid a set salary based on education and experience. They typically receive incremental pay increases at various time frames. Staff nurses can also see pay increases with overall cost of living increases.

Travel nurse pay is totally different and can be a bit of a gray area. Typical pay packages are composed of various components, including hourly pay, non-taxed travel nurse housing stipends, non-taxed per diems, travel reimbursements, and more. It’s important to speak to your recruiter about specific pay package breakdowns. 

>> Related: Top 10 Six-Figure Nursing Jobs

What Factors Impact Your Pay as a Travel Nurse?

There are a number of factors that can influence how much you can expect to make as a travel nurse. These include:

Location -  The specific location of the assignment most heavily influences travel nurse pay. Simply put, pay rates often reflect the cost of living in the area and also regional trends.

Which states pay the most for travel nurses?  Historically speaking, the highest-paying states for travel nurses include California, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington, and New York.

Southern states  tend to have lower living costs and, in turn, lower travel nurse pay.

Areas that are considered “destination locations”  (like, Hawaii and Florida) may pay lower. Though, with rapid-response assignments, this isn’t always the case.

Specialty -  The travel nurse’s specialty also impacts pay. Non-specialty nurses, such as the medical/surgical and psychiatric specialties, are typically paid a lower rate than specialized nurses. Furthermore, specialized nurses with highly sought-after skills  and credentials have the ability to earn more lucrative pay with seemingly endless opportunities. 

• Shift -  If you haven’t noticed, night shift assignments are more prevalent in the world of travel nursing. The good news is that many hospitals offer higher rates for their night shift assignments. If you want to make the most money, flexibility is key. A word of caution, if the night shift is not your thing, no amount of money is worth your safety, happiness, or license. If you provide better patient care during the day shift, stick to that. Your patients will thank you. 
• Practice level/Education - Travel RNs make more money than stationary RNs. But those who also pursue advanced practice nursing credentials stand to earn even more. For example, the average travel nurse practitioner's salary is around $131,543 per year but can go up to $218,000.

>> Show Me Online Nursing Programs

How To Make The Most Money As A Travel Nurse 

While the factors listed above do influence travel nurse pay, the following types of assignments almost always pay exceptionally well. Oftentimes, these types of assignments are not influenced by location, specialty or shift.

Everything else aside, if you’re looking to make the most money as a travel nurse, seek out these specific assignments: 

1. Rapid Response and “Crisis” Assignments

These assignments boast some of the highest rates in the travel nursing industry due to their urgent requirements. As the name suggests, these assignments require nurses to arrive at work fast -- usually within 2 weeks.

Nurses working in these assignments may have limited options in terms of location. They are also typically shorter than the general 13-week assignment - if you're ready to go, you can get started right away  in areas that need you the most. 

Assignments range from 36 to 48 hours per week but are certainly more lucrative for the nurse working 48, particularly given overtime pay rates. 

Crisis Examples

• A crisis assignment is not always because of a natural or man-made disaster. However, in some cases they are. For example, one agency was able to send nurses within 48 hours to provide support to hospitals treating patients in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.  
• More often, though, facilities in need of rapid response solutions include those managing unexpected census spikes, unit openings, emergency responses, EMR upgrades, and more.
• However, some facilities may leverage flexible-length assignment options to manage patient care during short-term staff shortages.
• Crisis assignments might also occur if a large number of nurses on the unit are on maternity leave at the same time, or can occur if there is an outbreak on the unit (GI illness) and the hospital needs staff immediately.

This type of assignment may be appealing to hospitals because they do not require the 13-week commitment that many other travel companies require. This means that agencies offering these types of assignments have the ability to offer travelers a larger selection of shorter and higher-paying assignments. A great option especially if you’re looking for a position to better fit your lifestyle. 

So, what's the catch? 

As mentioned, rapid response assignments require a quick turnaround. Therefore, it is absolutely crucial for nurses to have their paperwork in order if they want to reap the benefits of top pay. Credentials, tests, licenses, and other documents should be submitted to the agency as quickly as possible. Frequently, there are a limited number of positions available for these types of assignments and some agencies will be first-come, first-serve.

What Travel Nurse Agencies Say About Rapid-Response Assignments

We reached out to travel nursing agencies for more information about their rapid-response assignments. They said that most agencies will occasionally help nurses acquire licenses and certifications, including paying for new state licenses for nurses who complete an assignment with the company there. 

Agencies also offer the option to cover housing costs if the nurse stays in one of their preferred hotels. Alternatively, many travel nursing agencies provide a housing stipend calculated to cover the cost of a nurse acquiring his or her own housing during the assignment. Lastly, they also cover the travel costs nurses incur at the start and end of an assignment. 

Hospital vs Agency Bonuses

Hospital bonuses  are paid separately from the bill rate, are usually offered as completion bonuses. This means they are not paid until after you complete your assignment. These bonuses usually range from  $250-$5000.

Agency bonuses  may be taken out of the bill rate and affect your overall pay. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, especially if you enjoy getting a large amount of money as a lump sum. 

How do you know the difference between hospital and agency bonuses? For starters, you can ask your recruiter where the bonus comes from -- hospital or agency? 

• Retention Bonus

Some agencies will pay nurses bonuses once they end up working with that agency for multiple assignments. This is commonly referred to as a retention bonus and each agency will have its own requirements. These bonuses usually range from $100-$2,000 or more. 

• Referral Bonus

A referral bonus is a fee the agency pays to travel nurses who refer other nurses to work for their agency. The funds often come out of a separate budget allocated to referral fees and should not affect the travel nurse’s pay package. 

Referral bonuses typically range from  $500-$4,000  per nurse referral. Some of the best agencies in the industry pay nurses lucrative referrals bonuses once their referral completes an assignment.

Strikes occur when a labor contract or bargaining agreement between a hospital and a union is up for renewal. When the two sides aren’t able to come up with an acceptable compromise, the union may strike. 

In such a case, patients still need care. Therefore, hospitals will usually hire travel nurses to fill the temporary need. Due to the urgency, travel nurses who work strikes make much more money than they do when working on typical travel nurse assignments. 

How to Find the Highest-Paying Travel Nurse Assignments

First of all, you can always  ask recruiters directly about their highest-paying assignments.  Let them know that money is a motivator and that you are not interested in assignments that pay less than a certain amount. The best travel nurse recruiters will be honest with you about pay while giving you their best pay packages from the beginning. 

We suggest working with agencies that are known to pay high rates and who specialize in rapid-response and strike nursing. Hospitals pay these agencies higher rates to urgently provide highly specialized staff on a short-term basis. Those high rates are passed along to their travel nurses. 

Top 11 Tips For Travel Nurses (From a Travel Nurse Recruiter!)

1. crisis contracts.

Crisis contracts were extremely popular during the pandemic. Travel nurses were able to garner premium pay and had the opportunity to make significant amounts in a short period of time. While these specific types of crisis contracts are not readily available, healthcare companies around the country still need to fill gaps, especially for short periods of time. 

2. Find Your Own Housing

We suggest taking a housing stipend and securing your own housing. This will give you the freedom to choose your price point. Agencies will often house nurses in pricier accommodations (they have a reputation to uphold.) Additionally, agencies sign corporate leases -- leases that come with a “corporate” price tag. Some agencies are able to offer free housing if you stay in one of their preferred hotels. Most other agencies do not cover this cost outright, though, they’ll help you set it up.

3. Be Flexible

If money is your motivation, flexibility is key. Sometimes the highest paying assignments pay higher because they are not the most ideal. They may be in a less-than-desirable location or on a hard-to-fill time shift, such as nights or variables. Though it’s not always the case, nights, variables and weekends may come with higher pay or shift differentials.

4. Work With Agencies Who are Known for Their High Pay and Transparency

Every agency is different and will structure its pay packages differently as well. Transparency is key. The most trustworthy agencies will publish their compensation packages publicly and will disclose take-home pay. This focus on transparency allows nurses to skip the negotiating or fact-finding step and rapidly decide if the position is right for them. 

Industry jargon and terms like “blended rates” get confusing. Negotiations can increase confusion and lead to mistrust between nurses and recruiters. That’s why working with agencies that do not allow for negotiations may prove to be the best agencies to work for. They likely give the nurse their best rate from the “get-go” and therefore actually have no room left for negotiations. If you’re able to negotiate with a recruiter, why weren’t they offering you their best rate from the beginning? Something to consider.

5. Make Sure Your Profile is Up-to-Date

Top-paying travel nursing assignments come with a timestamp -- they are in high demand and competition is fierce. Truth is, agencies can’t simply submit you for a job just because you want to be considered. They literally have to “sell” your skills to the hospital.

How do they do this?  Through your paperwork, commonly referred to as your “profile” -- resume, references, skills checklists, license, etc. Having organized paperwork that can quickly (and easily) be submitted to a new agency will increase your chances of landing high-paying assignments. The quicker you get your paperwork to your recruiter, the faster they can submit you to a top-paying job.

Side note,  many nurse managers hire travel nurses on a "first come, first serve" basis. Why? Because your agency has already vetted you, the hospital doesn’t need to do more research to determine if you’re qualified. The hospital needs your skills to fill a temporary staffing need. If you treat every high-paying job with extreme urgency your chances of landing the job will increase. We recommend keeping your paperwork up to date and storing it online on the cloud using something like Dropbox or Google Drive. This will make it easy to simply share your paperwork folder with your recruiter.

Another tip, if you don’t have a scanner, download a scanning app -- works like a charm and you don’t have to lug around a bulky machine. Many agencies are getting tech-savvy and developing mobile apps that allow nurses to directly upload documents to their profile with the company, where they can be stored and updated when the app notifies nurses of their expirations, etc.

6. Work With Multiple Agencies

The truth is, no agency will have assignments available in every location in the US. More truth, some hospitals pay each agency at a different rate and local agencies may have better relationships with the hospitals in their area. Bottom line, it’s a good idea to work with multiple agencies, this will increase your opportunities.

Word of advice -- if you work with multiple recruiters, don’t be shady. Be honest with them about each other. Don’t "pit" them against each other. And, by all means, keep in touch with them even if you don’t choose their assignment (this time). Chances are they’ll want to work with you again in the future. Who knows, you might even make a new friend!

7. Maintain Multiple State Licenses

Did you know that many hospitals will not even look at your professional profile if you are not licensed in their state? It’s true. You’ll increase your chances of continuously landing high-paying jobs by maintaining active licenses in multiple states.

For example, rates in northern states usually increase during the winter months -- so, a license in Massachusetts is a must! If you want to work in a certain state, you need to have a license. Period. Even better – have a compact nursing license? This will automatically set you up for success. 

If you don’t have a license in that state, and you want to travel there soon, apply now! Some states have quick licensure turnaround of just 48 hours. Other states, like California, can take up to 6 months to process licensure paperwork.  Some agencies do assist or reimburse for licensing fees.

8. Work Agency Per Diem and Pick Up Extra Shifts

Travel nurses who want to make even more money will often work local agencies’ per diem shifts. They’ll also volunteer to work extra shifts during their assignments.

9. Communicate With Your Recruiter

Recruiters are the connection between you and the highest-paying travel nursing assignments. It’s important to communicate with them about your compensation needs. Looking for a high-paying assignment? Ask. Need a sign-on or completion bonus? Ask. Can’t live happily with an income below a certain amount? Tell them. Remember, a closed mouth doesn’t get fed.

10. Ask for Sign-On, Completion, and Retention Bonuses

Some travel companies may offer bonuses. Bonuses are paid either on day #1 of your assignment, upon completion of the assignment, or when you work multiple assignments with your agency. Inquire about bonuses. 

11. Refer Your Friends to Agencies

In the travel nursing industry, referrals are golden. Nurses are much more likely to trust their friend’s opinion of an agency they’ve actually worked for than they are an advertisement or recruiter. This is why agencies pay nurses referral bonuses to refer their friends. Referral fees differ but some agencies pay as high as $4,000 per nurse referral! 

Travel Nurse FAQs

What does a travel nurse do.

• A travel nurse is employed by a temporary staffing agency to work a contract with a healthcare facility for a short amount of time, usually around 13 weeks. 

What is the highest paid travel nurse? 

•  Any specialty area travel nurse, such as OR, ICU, MICU/SICU will have a higher earning potential. Additionally, APRNs such as a CRNA, will earn the highest wages. 

Is travel nursing worth the money?

• Travel nursing can be highly profitable, but you’ll want to consider all of the factors involved with the job, such as short-term contracts, inconsistent benefits and pay, new environments, and sometimes, high stress. 

What do you need to be a travel nurse? 

• In addition to being a Registered Nurse, typically, you need at least one year of experience on the floor to become a travel nurse. 

Is it hard to become a travel nurse? 

• Travel nursing can be competitive, but if you want to become a travel nurse, there are endless opportunities. You can increase your appeal by earning certifications in specialty areas. 

How much money do travel nurses make? 

• The take-home pay for travel nurses can vary widely based on the area’s need, the nurse’s specialty and any certifications, and other factors, but most travel nurses make well over six figures. 

Why do hospitals hire travel nurses? 

• Hospitals and other healthcare facilities may hire travel nurses when they are lacking their own staff, when the patient census becomes too high for their current staffing, or when a medical crisis, like COVID-19, or an emergency occurs. 

Angelina has her finger on the pulse of everything nursing. Whether it's a trending news topic, valuable resource or, heartfelt story, Angelina is an expert at producing content that nurses love to read. She specializes in warmly engaging with the nursing community and exponentially growing our social presence.

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

By clicking “Join Now”, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. We will not sell or distribute your email address to any third party, and you may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

You can now use digital statutory declarations for sick and carer's leave

Winter cold and flu season is in full swing and, with COVID in the mix too, a lot of workers may be seeking documented evidence when taking sick or carer's leave.

Many workplaces will accept a medical certificate or statutory declaration .

But an otherwise unnecessary trip to the doctor for a medical certificate can be time-consuming, costly, and take clinical time from people who need it.

And statutory declarations (or stat decs), while free, have always required finding a JP to sign them.

But now online statutory declarations are available, and can be used as evidence for personal leave from work.

Digital Commonwealth statutory declarations

Since early this year it's possible to make Commonwealth statutory declarations using your Digital Identity , by creating a myGovID and attaching it to your myGov account.

The documents are free, can be saved, emailed or printed, and once you are set-up take just a few minutes to create.

Veronica Taylor is a professor of law and regulation at the Australian National University (ANU) and was part of a federal government's task force created to help digitise everyday business documents — including statutory declarations.

As Professor Taylor explains, "a digital stat dec and the paper stat dec, which is still an option, have exactly the same effect ".

"What you are doing is saying, 'I declare the facts that I've written here to be true, and I've affixed my signature, and we know it's me — either because I've used a digital ID or because, on a paper form, the witness has watched me sign it — and I make the declaration knowing that a false declaration is a crime'.

"And of course, in an employment situation, your enterprise agreement or your contract with your employer generally has penalties baked in for making false declarations."

Is it easier to lie on a digital stat dec?

Professor Taylor says research she and her team undertook showed that the act of a JP witnessing a declaration did not have any bearing on its contents or substance.

"The witness (the JP) isn't guaranteeing that the contents are true — that burden falls on the person making the declaration.

"It's a kind of leftover ritual from the days when the stat dec was really a reform to get around having to make an oath."

It might feel like it's easier to lie when it's just you and your computer, but the consequences of doing so on a statutory declaration are exactly the same as with a paper one. And an employer may still question whether it constitutes reasonable evidence of your need for leave.

Shae McCrystal, a Professor of Labour Law at the University of Sydney Law School, warns providing any potentially false or misleading information to your employer could have serious consequences.

"If you go down the stat dec line, that's a legal document," she says.

"You never want to be telling untruths to your employer, but [doing so] in that very formal way could very much be grounds for a future disciplinary matter."

The real cost of medical certificates

University of Queensland labour law expert Graeme Orr believes there should be a bigger-picture approach to workplace requirements for personal leave.

"We've got to think about the system-wide effects on millions of people if they do think they have to get a medical certificate.

"They're either getting bulk-billed, or it's costing the Commonwealth revenue so much per visit — and some of the visits are essentially unnecessary and just for a formal purpose, rather than treatment.

"That's a problem," Professor Orr says.

And while he says it's important the solemnity of the statutory declaration process is retained with the online version, he points out that the documents are already often used in lieu of medical certificates — particularly when it comes to carer's leave .

"If you've got an elderly relative you're caring for and they're sick … it would be weird to have to push them in a wheelchair to a doctor to say, 'look, this frail person is struggling today'.

"So we already have a system where stat decs are maybe the only evidence that could be written reasonably required."

It's a sentiment echoed by Professor Taylor, who says "a trust relationship, where employees feel secure and supported, is going to boost productivity".

"When you signal on the one hand, trust and concern, and signal on the other hand, complete disregard for the person that you're putting the compliance burden on, you get very different results.

"So [the use of digital statutory declarations] is just a small way of … actioning what we already know to be true for everyone's benefit."

ABC Everyday in your inbox

Get our newsletter for the best of ABC Everyday each week

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

'i left my job because of it': workers who care for loved ones say leave requirements require too much paperwork.

Why crackdowns are on the way for the booming world of online healthcare

Is a positive RAT sufficient evidence for sick leave if you have COVID?

• Industrial Relations

Demi Moore on Full Frontal Nudity With Margaret Qualley in ‘The Substance’: ‘A Very Vulnerable Experience’ but I Had a ‘Great Partner Who I Felt Very Safe With’

Demi Moore ‘s new film, the feminist body horror “ The Substance ,” sees her bare it all, with several scenes featuring full nudity. At the Cannes Film Festival press conference for the film on Monday, the 61-year-old actor discussed the “vulnerable experience.”

“Going into it, it was really spelled out — the level of vulnerability and rawness that was really required to tell the story,” Moore said. “And it was a very vulnerable experience and just required a lot of sensitivity and a lot of conversation about what we were trying to accomplish.”

Related Stories

Car buyers want more screens as in-vehicle entertainment rises, francis ford coppola's 'megalopolis' lands at lionsgate for u.s. release after divisive cannes premiere, popular on variety.

“I had someone who was a great partner who I felt very safe with. We obviously were quite close  — naked — and we also got a lot of levity in those moments at how absurd those certain situations were,” she said. “But ultimately. it’s just about really directing your communication and mutual trust.”

As the film progresses, Moore becomes horribly disfigured thanks to the abuse her other half Qualley is inflicting on her. By the film’s last act, she quite resembles Anjelica Huston from the 1990 film “The Witches,” after she transforms into a humpback abomination.

Dennis Quaid also stars in the film as an “asshole,” as he described his character during the presser. The late Ray Liotta was meant to have the role before his passing in May 2022, and Quaid dedicated his performance to him.

“In my heart, I dedicated this role to Ray Liotta, who was set to play it,” Quaid said. “It was this week, two years ago that he passed, so I’d like to remember him. He was such an incredible actor.”

Cannes went wild for “The Substance” at its premiere on Sunday night, giving the film an 11-minute standing ovation , the longest of the fest so far.

In an interview with Variety , the French director discussed the film’s feminist themes, saying that body horror is “the perfect vehicle to express the violence all these women’s issues are about.”

With an undercurrent of #MeToo at this year’s festival as the movement grows in France, Fargeat hopes the film will shine even more light on the issue. “It’s a little stone in the huge wall we still have to build regarding this issue, and to be honest, I hope my film will also be one of the stones of that wall. That’s really what I intended to do with it.”

More from Variety

Nick mavar, star of ‘deadliest catch,’ dies at 59, what netflix learned from ‘fallout’ success apparent in new synced-up games & unscripted strategy, martin starger, ‘sophie’s choice’ and ‘nashville’ producer, dies at 92, teri hayden, talent agent for gabriel byrne and brendan gleeson, dies at 75, price chart for leading subscription video streaming services: updated with new max prices, anthea sylbert, costume designer on ‘chinatown,’ ‘rosemary’s baby’ and ‘shampoo,’ dies at 84, more from our brands, monica reflects on ‘closing the gaps’ with brandy after ‘the boy is mine’ remix, one of texas’s best distilleries just released a bourbon made from red corn, nixed land auction puts coyotes’ future in further jeopardy, the best loofahs and body scrubbers, according to dermatologists, ryan hadley, ink master contestant, dead at 46, verify it's you, please log in.