RN from US looking to move to AU

[kmc469]

I have read a few of the threads about other US nurses looking to relocate as well. I was originally considering a suburb of Sydney, but it looks like in addition to being a little expensive to live, there is about $5000/year I would have to pay for schooling for my daughter in NSW. I am leaning toward the Brisbane area, as it seems like it would be close to the beach and central to lots of other things as well.

I was wondering what the hours/shifts are likein hospitals?... (I work 3 12-hour shifts/week in the US)...when the school year starts?... how the school system is in that area?... as well as any general nursing info.

I was considering going thru an agency, as they help with a lot of the immigration legwork as well as placement.

Any comments/suggestions would be helpful.

Thanks :)

[ghillbert, MSN, NP]

Don't have kids, so I can't help about schools. School year starts February usually.

Hours/shifts depends on where you work. Most critical care areas let you do 8/12 hr shifts. Some other places do, many do 5x8s with 10hr nights rotating. Just have to check with employer.

Prince Charles Hospital is in Brisbane, you could google others and apply online and they can help you through the system. I personally wouldn't bother using an agency, but many people like the assistance with accommodation etc. I know some hospitals (I can think of SAN in Sydney) that have nurses accommodation, but I expect you'll be renting if you have a child.

Rentals: http://www.domain.com.au or http://www.realestate.com.au

[kmc469]

Thanks for the info :)...

I was just looking at the Queensland health system website... what do the grades mean for posted postions (ie: nurse grade 6)

[ghillbert, MSN, NP]

I am from VIC so not entirely sure how QLD works. In VIC, grade 1 = new grade, then you go to grade 2, year ----. So for example, I would be Grade 2, Year 10 if I had been out for 11 years. The QLD BON website probably explains the grades.