Looking for aJob as a Newly Grad Nurse in Australia

Zana2 · Dec 30, 2008

I'm in the same boat as you there. What i know so far is that you can apply for new grad place within 12 months of qualifying. The places are advertised sometimes in the summer, the deadline for receiving the applications is sometimes in september and most hospitals i've looked into (SA) will let you know if you're in by the 3rd of Nov, for Jan, Feb or March intakes. They are meant mainly for Au new grads, as their practical experience is somewhat limited comparing to the Uk equivalent, for example. What draws me to the new grad program is the rotation, I'd have to have a 2 year contract, and I'm not particularly looking forward to put up with it for 2 years if the job is crap, at least with a rotational you'd get to see different things, see with whom you click and take it from there.

Never met anyone personally, but a friend of a friend of a friend apparently got a job straight from school, and there's another saying going around:if you've got a pulse and a pin, the job is yours.

I'm just going in with an open mind.

Good luck.

kit25 · Dec 30, 2008

I'm in the same boat as you there. What i know so far is that you can apply for new grad place within 12 months of qualifying. The places are advertised sometimes in the summer, the deadline for receiving the applications is sometimes in september and most hospitals i've looked into (SA) will let you know if you're in by the 3rd of Nov, for Jan, Feb or March intakes. They are meant mainly for Au new grads, as their practical experience is somewhat limited comparing to the Uk equivalent, for example. What draws me to the new grad program is the rotation, I'd have to have a 2 year contract, and I'm not particularly looking forward to put up with it for 2 years if the job is crap, at least with a rotational you'd get to see different things, see with whom you click and take it from there.
Never met anyone personally, but a friend of a friend of a friend apparently got a job straight from school, and there's another saying going around:if you've got a pulse and a pin, the job is yours.
I'm just going in with an open mind.
Good luck.

Thanks for the response. I am an overseas nurse and would be taking my chances after completing my licensure application. I am just curious if majority of Australian graduates opt for a grad year? I can see that placement is highly competitive especially in special areas.

talaxandra · Dec 31, 2008

There's a steep learning curve once you're on the floor for real - as a student you are shielded from a lot of the paperwork, difficult interactions and responsibilities you encounter once you're registered, and most students aren't really aware of this at the time, being occupied with managing what they have to do already.

A graduate year helps you to consolidate your undergraduate experience in a supportive environment - most programs include education days, preceptorship, supernumerary time, a graduate coordinator (someone not affiliated with the ward), and regular performance reviews.

It also helps subsequent employers have an idea of what kind of practitioner you are, enhancing your employability.

Graduate years aren't mandatory, and you can certainly get post-graduate experience without one, though major employers (like large public hospitals) tend to be wary and agency work is a scary and generally unsupportive way to start out. If it's possible I'd certainly recommend applying for a grad year program.

Hope that helps :)

kit25 · Dec 31, 2008

There's a steep learning curve once you're on the floor for real - as a student you are shielded from a lot of the paperwork, difficult interactions and responsibilities you encounter once you're registered, and most students aren't really aware of this at the time, being occupied with managing what they have to do already.
A graduate year helps you to consolidate your undergraduate experience in a supportive environment - most programs include education days, preceptorship, supernumerary time, a graduate coordinator (someone not affiliated with the ward), and regular performance reviews.
It also helps subsequent employers have an idea of what kind of practitioner you are, enhancing your employability.
Graduate years aren't mandatory, and you can certainly get post-graduate experience without one, though major employers (like large public hospitals) tend to be wary and agency work is a scary and generally unsupportive way to start out. If it's possible I'd certainly recommend applying for a grad year program.
Hope that helps :)

Thanks for the wonderful advice. But grad year usually have intake dates. And I think I cannot wait that long for the next intake. Though I would want to learn more and be supported, that wouldn't be feasible as of the moment. I hope to find work sooner after completing the licensure process. My worry is not finding work within a reasonable time period. And my cousins have advised me that I cannot do walk-in application in Australia. It has to be through e-mail/drop box. Unlike in my country, some would allow you to dash into interview whenever possible. Any other input will be highly appreciated. Thank you. :nuke:

angelfyre372 · Jan 6, 2009

Hi Kit

I am a new grad myself and will be starting my grad year this month. A friend of mine was looking for options in case she didn't get a grad year offer. She was seriously considering Melbourne Private because they offered a mentor program, as an alternative to a grad program. She said it's not heavily supported as a grad program, but it doesn't leave you to sink or swim either.

I think St. Vincent's & Mercy Private offer similar programs. Maybe the private hospitals are a good place to start :confused:

The nurse-patient ratios are still decent and the pay is comparable to the public hospitals from what I know.

Good luck in your search!

kit25 · Jan 8, 2009

Hi Kit
I am a new grad myself and will be starting my grad year this month. A friend of mine was looking for options in case she didn't get a grad year offer. She was seriously considering Melbourne Private because they offered a mentor program, as an alternative to a grad program. She said it's not heavily supported as a grad program, but it doesn't leave you to sink or swim either.
I think St. Vincent's & Mercy Private offer similar programs. Maybe the private hospitals are a good place to start
The nurse-patient ratios are still decent and the pay is comparable to the public hospitals from what I know.
Good luck in your search!

I'm looking to Queensland nursing since my relatives are all over there. Melbourne is a good place but it's too cold during the winter season. Thank you for your input.

angelfyre372 · Jan 9, 2009

Ooops, sorry. Good luck with your search anyway!