Paediatric nursing is a rewarding and vital specialty within Australia’s healthcare system, focusing on the care of infants, children, and adolescents. It’s a field where compassion meets clinical skill—offering stable careers, competitive salaries, and the chance to make a real difference in young lives. If you’re considering joining this profession or simply curious about the financial and professional outlook, here’s an up-to-date, practical guide to what you can expect.
How Much Do Paediatric Nurses Earn in Australia?
Salaries for paediatric nurses vary based on experience, location, and qualifications. Here’s a clear breakdown of typical earnings at different career stages:
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary (AUD) | Average Monthly Salary (AUD) | Average Hourly Rate (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $78,964 | ~$6,580 | ~$38 |
| Mid-level | $91,444 | ~$7,620 | ~$44* |
| Senior-level | $120,619 | ~$10,050 | ~$58 |
*Mid-level hourly rate estimated from annual averages; actual rates may differ based on overtime, penalties, and employer.
Disclaimer:
Salary values are estimates and may vary depending on employer, market conditions, and individual experience. Always check with your employer or the latest industry reports for the most accurate figures.
Regional Differences
Paediatric nurse salaries can differ across Australia’s states and territories due to cost of living, demand, and local healthcare budgets. Here’s a snapshot of regional average annual salaries for nurses (general figures, which closely align with paediatric specialisation):
| State/Territory | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Western Australia | $93,500 |
| New South Wales (NSW) | $91,000 |
| Queensland | $90,500 |
| Victoria | $88,000 |
| South Australia | $86,000 |
Nurses in rural and remote areas often receive additional benefits such as housing allowances and higher pay rates to compensate for isolation and higher living costs. Urban nurses, while earning competitive salaries, may face higher living expenses in cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
Disclaimer:
These figures are estimates and can fluctuate based on employer, experience, and current market conditions.
How to Become a Paediatric Nurse in Australia
Educational Pathway
To become a paediatric nurse in Australia, you must first qualify as a Registered Nurse (RN) by completing a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) or equivalent degree from an accredited Australian university. After graduation, you’ll need to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
Specialisation
Once registered, gaining experience in paediatric settings (such as children’s wards or neonatal units) is essential. Many nurses pursue postgraduate qualifications in paediatric nursing or child health to enhance their skills and employability. Universities across Australia offer postgraduate certificates, diplomas, and master’s degrees in paediatric nursing.
Certification & Licensing
All nurses must hold current registration with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). Specialised certifications, such as Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) or paediatric advanced practice qualifications, may be required or preferred by some employers.
Alternative Pathways
For those seeking non-traditional routes, some institutions offer online postgraduate courses in paediatric nursing or child health. However, clinical placements are usually required, so distance learning options often include in-person components.
Useful Links
- AHPRA Registration: Visit the official AHPRA website for registration requirements.
- Postgraduate Courses: Check university websites (e.g., University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Queensland University of Technology) for details on paediatric nursing specialisations.
- Advanced Certifications: Explore programs like APLS Australia for specialised training.
Duties of a Paediatric Nurse in Australia
- Assessing and monitoring the health status of infants, children, and adolescents.
- Administering medications and treatments as prescribed by doctors.
- Providing emotional support to young patients and their families.
- Educating families on managing illnesses, medications, and preventive care.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams including doctors, allied health professionals, and social workers.
- Documenting patient care and maintaining accurate health records.
- Responding to emergencies and providing critical care when necessary.
Where Can a Paediatric Nurse Work in Australia?
Paediatric nurses are in demand across a variety of healthcare settings:
- Public and private hospitals (children’s wards, emergency departments, intensive care units)
- Specialist paediatric hospitals (e.g., The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Sydney Children’s Hospital)
- Community health centres and general practices
- Schools and early childhood centres
- Non-government organisations supporting children with chronic illnesses or disabilities
- Rural and remote health services (often with additional incentives)
Job Prospects for Paediatric Nurses in Australia
Demand
Australia’s healthcare system continues to experience strong demand for skilled paediatric nurses, driven by population growth, advances in paediatric medicine, and an emphasis on child and adolescent health. Specialised roles, such as neonatal or paediatric intensive care nurses, are particularly sought after.
Career Progression
With experience and further qualifications, paediatric nurses can advance to clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner, or managerial roles. Opportunities also exist in education, research, and policy development.
Future Scope
The outlook for paediatric nursing is positive, with ongoing investment in child health services and a growing recognition of the importance of early intervention and family-centred care. Nurses willing to work in regional or remote areas may find even greater opportunities and benefits.
In summary:
Paediatric nursing in Australia offers a fulfilling career with competitive salaries, diverse work settings, and strong prospects for growth. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to specialise, this field provides stability, satisfaction, and the chance to shape the health of future generations.
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.