Nurse practitioners are highly qualified registered nurses who have completed advanced clinical training and hold a master’s degree. They are authorised to diagnose and treat health conditions, prescribe medications, order tests and refer patients to other health professionals.
Nurse practitioner models of care increase access to care and support health services to deliver care that is timely, cost effective, and appropriate to the needs of the patient.
Purpose
The purpose of the Victorian Nurse Practitioner Program is to:
- Provide a state-wide policy focus for the development and implementation of the nurse practitioner role and,
- Assist Victorian public health services to establish new and innovative nurse practitioner roles and models of care.
Funding for 2025-26
We know that rural and remote communities are disproportionately impacted by workforce shortages that can lead to inequitable access to healthcare. Therefore, in 2025-26 the Victorian Nurse Practitioner Program is supporting 34 Victorian small rural health services to embed nurse practitioner models of care.
Registered nurses from eligible health services interested in becoming a nurse practitioner should speak directly with their workplace.
Postgraduate Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Program
Registered nurses employed by a Victorian public health service may also be able to access government scholarships for postgraduate studies leading to nurse practitioner endorsement. Applications for this funding will be co-ordinated by public health services.
To find out more, contact the Nursing and Midwifery Education Team at your organisation.
Reviewed 12 November 2025
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