Nurse coordinators in Australia are vital professionals, bridging clinical care and management by ensuring efficient operations in hospitals and healthcare settings. As healthcare demands rise, they’re becoming one of the most sought-after roles, with salaries reflecting their critical—and growing—importance.
How Much Do Nurse Coordinators Earn in Australia?
Nurse coordinator salaries in Australia are among the most competitive in the healthcare sector, reflecting both responsibility and experience. Here’s a clear, easy-to-scan breakdown:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary (avg.) | Monthly (avg.) | Hourly (avg.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $80,000 – $90,000 | ~$6,700 – $7,500 | ~$40 – $45 |
| Mid-level | $99,000 – $110,000 | ~$8,250 – $9,200 | ~$48 – $52 |
| Senior-level | $120,000 – $130,000+ | ~$10,000 – $10,800+ | ~$58 – $62+ |
- Annual average (all levels): About $99,000 for nurse coordinators, and up to $120,000+ for clinical nurse coordinators, highlighting the impact of specialization and experience.
- Hourly pay: Around $41 per hour for nurse coordinators.
- Monthly: Approximately $8,000–$9,000 for mid-level roles.
Disclaimer: These figures are estimates and can vary based on employer, location, sector, and individual experience. Always check recent job listings for the most accurate, current information.
Regional Differences
Where you work in Australia can significantly affect your earning potential as a nurse coordinator. Big cities and certain states pay more due to demand and cost of living, while remote areas may offer higher base pay or additional incentives.
| State | Annual Salary (avg.) |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | $91,000 |
| Victoria | $88,000 |
| Queensland | $90,500 |
| Western Australia | $93,500 |
| South Australia | $86,000 |
| Northern Territory | $86,800 |
| Australian Capital Territory | $84,879 |
Regional note: Nurses in rural and remote areas often receive additional pay, housing, and travel allowances to compensate for isolation and higher demand.
Disclaimer: These are regional averages. Actual pay can vary depending on employer, market conditions, and experience. Salaries in major cities may be offset by higher living costs.
How to Become a Nurse Coordinator in Australia
Becoming a nurse coordinator in Australia requires a blend of clinical experience, leadership training, and formal education.
Education & Training
- Undergraduate degree: A Bachelor of Nursing (BN) is the minimum requirement.
- Registration: Must be a Registered Nurse (RN) with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Visit the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for details.
- Postgraduate study: Many employers look for candidates with a postgraduate qualification, such as a Master of Nursing (Clinical Leadership, Health Services Management, or similar).
- Certifications: Consider postgraduate certificates in health management, leadership, or clinical specialty (e.g., critical care, aged care).
Alternative Pathways
- Online courses: Many Australian universities offer online postgraduate programs in nursing leadership and management, providing flexibility for working professionals.
- Short courses: Look for industry-recognized short courses in healthcare administration, quality and safety, or project management.
- Professional bodies: Membership with the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) provides access to professional development and networking.
Licenses & Apprenticeships
- RN registration: Mandatory.
- Police checks and working with children checks: Often required.
- Apprenticeships: Not typical, but graduate programs in nursing leadership can provide structured pathways.
Useful Links
- Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA): ahpra.gov.au
- Australian College of Nursing (ACN): acn.edu.au
- AHPRA Registration: ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registration-Process
Duties of Nurse Coordinator in Australia
Nurse coordinators in Australia perform a mix of clinical, administrative, and leadership tasks, including:
- Overseeing clinical operations: Ensuring smooth day-to-day running of nursing units or clinics.
- Staff management: Supervising, rostering, and supporting nursing teams.
- Patient care coordination: Managing complex cases, liaising with specialists, and ensuring care continuity.
- Policy implementation: Developing, implementing, and reviewing clinical guidelines and procedures.
- Quality and safety: Monitoring care standards, leading audits, and driving improvements.
- Budget management: Assisting with financial planning for nursing services.
- Training and education: Facilitating ongoing professional development for staff.
Where Can a Nurse Coordinator Work in Australia?
Nurse coordinators work across a wide range of healthcare settings:
- Hospitals: In emergency, surgical, maternity, oncology, and more.
- Aged care facilities: Managing care for elderly residents.
- Community health services: Coordinating care for patients at home or in the community.
- Specialist clinics: Such as diabetes, renal, or mental health clinics.
- Education and research: In universities or research institutions, supporting clinical trials or nurse education.
- Government and policy: Advising on healthcare policy or program management.
Job Prospects for Nurse Coordinator in Australia
Demand is strong: Australia’s aging population, increasing chronic disease rates, and healthcare system reforms are driving demand for skilled nurse coordinators.
Job security: With nursing shortages and an emphasis on care quality, nurse coordinators are well-positioned for stable, rewarding careers.
Career progression: Nurse coordinators can advance to roles like nurse manager, director of nursing, or pursue further specialization.
Future scope: As healthcare becomes more complex, the need for coordinators who can bridge clinical care and management will only grow.
Nurse coordinators in Australia enjoy competitive pay, strong job prospects, and opportunities for career advancement. Whether you’re starting your nursing journey or seeking to step up into leadership, this role offers both professional satisfaction and financial reward in a dynamic, evolving healthcare landscape.
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.