How an Indian Nurse Can Get a Job in Australia: Step-by-Step Guide

Many Indian nurses dream of working in Australia because of the country’s great need for healthcare workers, good income packages, and higher quality of life. If you are an Indian nurse who wants to work in Australia, this comprehensive guide will bring you through the full procedure, from eligibility to employment

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Criteria

To begin the journey, an Indian nurse must fulfill the following basic requirements:

Nursing Qualification: A Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing.

Nursing Registration: Valid registration with the Indian Nursing Council (INC) or State Nursing Council.

Work Experience: At least 1 year of clinical experience (recommended, not always mandatory).

English Proficiency: Meet English language requirements (IELTS, OET, etc.).

Step 2: Pass an English Language Test

You must prove English proficiency with one of the following accepted tests:

IELTS Academic: Minimum 7.0 in each band.

OET (Nursing): Minimum B in each sub-test.

PTE Academic: Minimum 65 in each band.

TOEFL iBT: Minimum scores (L:24, R:24, S:23, W:27).

Note: Results must be no more than 2 years old.

Step 3: Apply to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

AHPRA is the authority that regulates nursing practice in Australia. You must apply for registration through the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).

Important Steps:

Create an account on the AHPRA website.

Submit Self-check: You’ll be assigned to a stream (most Indian nurses fall under Stream B).

Upload Documents: Educational certificates, passport, CV, registration proof, English test results.

Pay the assessment fee (around AUD 640).

Step 4: Complete the OBA (Outcome-Based Assessment)

As a Stream B nurse, you need to complete the OBA pathway, which includes:

NCLEX-RN Exam (Computer-based):

• Register with Pearson VUE.
• Cost: Around USD 200.
• Format: Adaptive multiple-choice test.

OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam):

• Conducted in Australia only.
• Tests practical clinical skills.
• Cost: Around AUD 4,000.

You can take NCLEX-RN from India but must travel to Australia for the OSCE.

Step 5: Get AHPRA Registration

After clearing both NCLEX-RN and OSCE:

• Submit the final registration application to AHPRA.
• Pay the registration fee.
• Receive Registered Nurse (RN) status in Australia.

Step 6: Apply for Jobs in Australia

Popular Job Portals:

• Seek (www.seek.com.au)
• Indeed Australia
• Health Workforce Queensland
• Nursing recruitment agencies (e.g., Healthcare Australia, Bupa, HealthStaff Recruitment)

You can apply for roles in:

• Public hospitals
• Aged care homes
• Private clinics
• Community health services

Step 7: Apply for an Australian Work Visa

Depending on your job offer and eligibility, you may apply for:

• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482)
• Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
• Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
• State Sponsored Visa (subclass 190)

A job offer from an Australian employer can significantly boost your chances.

Step 8: Move to Australia and Start Working

Once your visa is approved:

• Arrange accommodation.
• Familiarize yourself with Australian healthcare practices.
• Begin your career as a Registered Nurse in Australia.

Conclusion

Though the process can be long and requires investment, the rewards of working as a nurse in Australia are well worth it. From international exposure to excellent pay and a better lifestyle, it’s a dream many Indian nurses have successfully achieved.