BHSc Nsg - Bachelor of Health Science—Nursing Nursing Qualification for RNs in Australia

To become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia, the course of study is like that in the US. RNs in Australia must attend a college or university and obtain a Bachelor of Nursing, Bachelor of Science (Nursing), or Bachelor of Nursing Science degree. Most programs require three years of education.

Licensed RNs in Australia determine, coordinate, and provide safe, quality nursing care to patients in various settings. Nursing practice includes comprehensive assessment, care planning, and evaluation of outcomes. RNs may have administration, research, education, and direct care roles.

After completing the bachelor’s-level nursing degree, graduates must pass a computerized exam that determines their ability to practice entry-level nursing. Australia’s National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is administered by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to determine if nursing school graduates should be licensed. 

Nursing school graduates who successfully pass the NCLEX-RN can apply to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). The board will issue an RN license when requirements are met.

Here are steps to becoming an RN in Australia:

1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.

2. Earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

3. Apply to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

4. Study and pass the Australian NCLEX-RN.

5. Apply to the NMBA for an RN license.

Australia offers five types of RN registrations. The nursing and midwifery registration types are:

• General registration

• Limited registration

• Non-practicing registration

• Student registration

• Provisional registration 

Applicants must apply online within two years of completing a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing program.

License Fees

The application fee for general RN registration with the NMBA is $309.

Australian national law requires all registered health practitioners, including RNs, to renew their registration annually with their National Board. NMBA requires nurses to renew by May 31 each year. Nurses must also show proof of address with renewal for randomized criminal background checks.

The requirements for renewal of the Australian RN license include:

• 20 hours of continuing professional development (CPD) 

• 10 hours of continuing education on obtaining, supplying, and administering scheduled medications

• Attestation of changes to criminal history

• Current professional indemnity insurance (PII)

• Renewal fee is $180. There is a $30 fee for late renewals.

Aphra National Boards
Registration and endorsement for the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia
Fees for the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia
Contact information for the Board of Australia by the NCSBN