Division One Registered Nurses (RNs) in Australia play a vital role in healthcare, delivering frontline patient care across hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Their expertise and commitment make them essential to the health system, and understanding their earning potential can help both current nurses and those considering this career path.
How Much Do Division One Registered Nurses Earn In Australia
Salaries for Division One Registered Nurses vary by experience, reflecting growth in responsibility and skill over time. Below is a clear breakdown of estimated annual, monthly, and hourly salaries for different experience levels:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary (AUD) | Monthly Salary (AUD) | Hourly Rate (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $72,700 – $78,000 | $6,058 – $6,500 | $38 – $41 |
| Mid-Level | $85,000 – $90,000 | $7,083 – $7,500 | $44 – $47 |
| Senior-Level | $95,000 – $108,000 | $7,916 – $9,000 | $49 – $56 |
These figures represent estimates and can vary based on employer, location, market conditions, and individual experience.
Regional Differences
Salary levels for Division One Registered Nurses also fluctuate significantly across Australian states and territories, influenced by local demand, cost of living, and healthcare budgets.
| State / Territory | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | $90,000 – $99,000 |
| Victoria (VIC) | $85,000 – $92,000 |
| Queensland (QLD) | $80,000 – $88,000 |
| South Australia (SA) | $78,000 – $85,000 |
| Western Australia (WA) | $88,000 – $96,000 |
| Tasmania (TAS) | $75,000 – $82,000 |
| Northern Territory (NT) | $90,000 – $97,000 |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | $88,000 – $95,000 |
Note: Salaries are approximate and can vary by specific location, employer, and work setting.
How to Become a Division One Registered Nurse in Australia
To become a Division One Registered Nurse in Australia, the typical pathway includes:
- Educational Requirements: Completion of an approved Bachelor of Nursing degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized university or nursing school.
- Registration: Nurses must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) under Division 1 of the register, usually after passing the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) requirements.
- Licensing and Certification: This includes a valid nursing license and completion of the National Criminal History Check as required.
- Training: Most nurses gain practical clinical experience through supervised clinical placements during their degree.
- Alternative Pathways: For those with overseas qualifications or non-traditional routes, bridging courses and recognition of prior learning programs are available. Online programs and industry-specific short courses also support continuing education and specialization.
For detailed certification and registration information, you can visit the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
Key Factors Impacting Income
Several factors influence how much a Division One Registered Nurse can earn:
- Industry Demand & Skill Shortages: Areas with nurse shortages or high demand—such as rural or remote regions—often offer higher pay or incentives.
- Educational Background: Higher qualifications, such as postgraduate degrees or specializations, can lead to higher salaries.
- Experience Level: More years in clinical practice often translate into better pay.
- Healthcare Sector: Public vs. private sector employment might slightly affect income, but differences are generally small in Australia.
- Work Hours and Overtime: Shift work, night shifts, and overtime attract additional allowances.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the healthcare and social assistance sector is one of Australia’s fastest-growing industries, underpinning sustained demand for qualified nurses.
Future Scope of Division One Registered Nurse in Australia
The outlook for Division One Registered Nurses in Australia is positive, with the Australian healthcare sector experiencing steady growth due to factors like an aging population, increased chronic disease prevalence, and expanding healthcare services. This translates into:
- Job Demand: Expected to grow robustly over the next decade.
- Salary Trends: Salaries are anticipated to rise moderately in line with inflation and demand.
- Emerging Opportunities: Expansion of nurse practitioner roles, advanced clinical specializations, and leadership positions.
- Challenges: Workforce retention, rural healthcare shortages, and increasing care complexity.
This role remains a promising long-term career with strong job security and progressive earning potential.
Overall, Division One Registered Nurses in Australia can expect competitive salaries that grow with experience and specialization, opportunities varying by region, and a bright future in a vital profession.
Sufiyan, a passionate IT professional and finance enthusiast dedicated to simplifying financial clarity for every Australian. With years of experience in both tech and personal finance, Sufiyan oversees all content to ensure accuracy, usability, and relevance.