Nurse Salary in Australia in 2025: Skills, Benefits, Eligibility & More

The nurse salary in Australia varies based on experience, location, and specialization. With a strong demand for healthcare professionals, nurses in Australia receive competitive salaries and benefits. Understanding these salary trends can help aspiring and current nurses plan their careers effectively.

From entry-level registered nurses to specialized roles, salaries differ across states and healthcare sectors. Factors such as overtime, shift allowances, and workplace settings also impact earnings. Let’s explore the salary structure, influencing factors, and growth opportunities for nurses in Australia.

Scope for Nurses in Australia

Nursing is a highly rewarding and in-demand profession in Australia, offering career growth and opportunities for employment in Australia. With an increasing need for healthcare services, nurses play a crucial role in hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health centers. The profession continues to expand, providing a promising future for those pursuing a career in nursing.

• Currently, 346,700 nurses are employed across various healthcare sectors in Australia.
• The median weekly earnings for nurses in Australia is approximately AUD 2,156, reflecting competitive pay.
• The annual employment growth for nurses stands at 11,600 ensuring a steady demand for professionals.
• Registered nurses are among the top professions, with an anticipated 13.9% job growth in the next five years.
• Nurses have diverse job opportunities in hospitals, aged care facilities, community health centers, and private practices across the country.

Nurse Salary in Australia: Based on Experience

The nurse salary in Australia varies depending on experience, with higher earnings for those with advanced skills and expertise. Entry-level nurses start with a solid income, while experienced professionals earn significantly more. The table below provides an overview of average salaries based on experience.

Here is a detailed article on Average Salary in Australia Per Month.

Nurses Salary in Australia: State-Wise Salaries

Nurse salaries in Australia vary by state, influenced by factors such as cost of living, demand, and workplace settings. While some states offer higher wages, others provide additional benefits like allowances and incentives. Here is the list of average salaries for nurses across different states.

Read this article to learn about the top 10 highest paying countries for Nurses.

Nurse Salary in Australia: Highest Paying Cities

Nursing salaries in Australia differ across cities, influenced by factors like demand, experience, and cost of living. Some cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, offer higher wages to attract skilled professionals. Check out the top-paying cities for nurses in Australia below.

Nurse Salary in Australia: Highest Paid Nurses in Australia

Curious to know which are the highest-paid nurses in Australia and what is the subsequent nurse salary in Australia in Indian rupees and AUD. The table below is equipped with all the details like nursing assistant Australia salary, EN nurse salary in Australia, etc, just for you.

Explore the best universities for nursing in Australia here!

Nurses Salary in Australia: Average Salaries for Different Job Roles

Nurses in Australia earn varying salaries depending on their job roles, experience, and work settings. Specialized roles typically offer higher pay, reflecting the advanced skills and responsibilities required. Here is an overview of the average salaries for different nursing job roles in Australia.

Explore the average cost of living in Australia with this blog!

Healthcare Industries Hiring Nurses in Australia: Top Recruiters

Australia offers numerous job opportunities for nurses, with top healthcare providers actively recruiting skilled professionals. Leading hospitals, aged care organizations, and private healthcare groups provide competitive salaries and career growth. Below is a list of top recruiters hiring nurses in Australia.

Read this article and learn how to get a job in Australia from India!

Factors Influencing Nurses Salary in Australia

A nurse’s salary in Australia depends on various factors, including experience, location, and specialization. Different healthcare settings and work conditions also influence earnings. Understanding these factors can help nurses maximize their salary potential.

• Experience Level: Senior nurses with years of practice earn significantly higher salaries than entry-level professionals. Pay scales increase with additional training, certifications, and expertise.

• Work Location: Nurses in metropolitan areas often earn more than those in rural regions due to higher demand and cost of living. However, rural nurses may receive incentives like relocation bonuses and allowances.

• Specialization: Specialized nurses in areas like ICU, anesthesia, and mental health earn higher wages than general registered nurses. Advanced skills and certifications make them more valuable in the healthcare industry.

• Workplace Setting: Salaries vary across public hospitals, private hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health centers. The private sector and specialized facilities often offer higher pay and additional benefits.

• Shift Allowances and Overtime: Nurses working night shifts, weekends, or public holidays receive extra compensation. Overtime opportunities also increase earnings, making flexible work schedules financially rewarding.

How to Become a Nurse in Australia from India? Eligibility & Requirements

Becoming a nurse in Australia from India requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and registration requirements. Indian nurses must complete the necessary qualifications, gain relevant experience, and obtain approval from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Below are the key eligibility criteria and requirements to start a nursing career in Australia.

1. For Qualification Requirements
1. Successful completion of all nursing education components.
2. Qualification equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Australia, including a minimum of 800 hours of workplace experience in diverse healthcare settings.
3. Consistent evaluation of work and recognition by an external nursing regulatory body with accreditation standards equivalent to those in Australia.
4. Maintenance of professional knowledge and skills in alignment with current healthcare practices, nursing research, and health policies.
5. Certification from an educational institution confirming the completion of an assessment in medication administration and management.
2. Criteria for Meeting Registration Standards
1. Attainment of an overall score of 7 or higher in each component of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) OR
2. Achievement of an overall score of 65 or more in the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic OR
3. Earning a total score of 88 or above in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT.
4. Demonstration to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) that professional skills and knowledge are current by meeting recency of practice registration standards.
5. Undergoing a criminal history check considering various factors, including the nature of any offenses committed, pending charges, or sentences served, among others.
3. Essential Skills Needed to Become a Nurse in Australia

Explore different types of Australian visa options in this article!

Applicable Tax Rates in Australia for Nurses (Updated)

Applicable tax rates in Australia vary based on income levels. The tax system operates on a progressive scale, meaning higher incomes are taxed at higher rates.

Individuals earning up to $18,200 annually are exempt from income tax, with rates increasing gradually for higher income brackets up to 45% for incomes over $180,000.

Want to calculate your nurse salary in Australia after tax, you can now do it easily with the above-mentioned tax slabs.

Nurses Salary in Australia: Unleash Your Potential

Nurses' salaries in Australia vary based on various factors, despite which, the profession offers competitive pay and numerous opportunities for career advancement. While financial rewards are significant, nursing remains a deeply fulfilling profession driven by the desire to improve patient lives and contribute to healthcare.

Explore the possibilities for your nursing career in Australia with GetGIS. Our immigration experts understand that the journey to secure the ideal nursing position in Australia can be complex. We are committed to offering personalized support to streamline your transition and facilitate a smooth process as you pursue your nursing career Down Under.

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Useful Links

• Australia Point System for Subclass 188, 189, 190 and 491
• Work and Settle in Australia With Australia Skilled Visa