Returning to nursing 

Getting back into nursing or midwifery

Clinical care, knowledge and skills are changing rapidly and you need much more than the ‘basics of care’ to be able to work safely and effectively. So when you’re exploring a return to practice, remember that getting back on the register is not an automatic entitlement, and that most public health services run programs and courses only when they need to recruit nurses and midwives to general or specific areas.

To find out more about returning to practice (or if you are thinking of having a break), you should read the Returning to Nursing Factsheet first.

Nurses and midwives with current registration

You can check the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency website to see if you’re registered as a nurse and/or midwife – http://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registers-of-Practitioners.aspx

If you’re currently registered but have had a break from practice, consider a refresher program to update your knowledge and clinical skills. Some Victorian public health services offer on-the-job refresher programs, allowing you to update while working and being paid a full salary.

To find out about refresher programs, speak with your prospective employer or refer to our fact sheet

Nurses and midwives with lapsed registration

If you’re a former registered nurse, enrolled nurse or midwife, contact the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) to find out how to regain your registration or endorsement. http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/

NMBA may advise you to complete a re-entry course. Find a list of approved public and private providers on the NMBA web site at http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Accreditation/Approved-Programs-of-Study.aspx

Contact course providers to find out if and when places are available.

Funding support

The Department of Health’s Return to nursing program has previously assisted with funding public health services who wish to employ former nurses and midwives through a re-entry program or refresher programs. Please note this program is currently under review.