Major investment to draw nursing students to aged care sector
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A significant boost to the aged care workforce has been announced by the Albanese Government, committing a total of $18.4 million to the Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placements Program. The funding aims to attract more nursing students into the sector by offering hands-on experience and specialised training in gerontological care.
An additional $5.1 million has been earmarked specifically for the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) to continue supporting undergraduate placements. APNA President, Karen Booth, says the program makes “students who have taken part in the program tell us how it changed their perception of nursing in aged care and see it as a valuable career opportunity.”
The overall funding will facilitate clinical placements for up to 8,000 students, including those pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, and—for the first time—Diploma of Nursing. Students are backed by trained clinical facilitators and can access an online resource hub, which APNA also provides, to ensure a comprehensive and rewarding learning experience.
“Skilled nurses play an integral role in aged care, helping keep residents safe while reducing medical emergencies through early intervention,” says Minister for Aged Care and Sport, Anika Wells. “During 2023–24, we supported over 2,000 students to build these specialised skills through high quality, on-the-job training and the ability to better understand and address the unique health needs of older people in care.”
According to Booth, students have found it particularly valuable to engage with residents: “They are given hands-on opportunities to develop their clinical skills, as well as engage with residents and contribute to their wellbeing, something they tell us is both educational and rewarding.” She adds, “Enrolled nurses play a vital role in aged care, and being able to give them the opportunity to complete placements with APNA will go a long way to supporting the workforce.”
Minister Wells explains the government’s broader goal: “The Albanese Government’s $18.4m investment means an additional 8,000 nursing students will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the rewards of providing quality care to older people. Our continued support of this program demonstrates the Albanese Government’s commitment to attracting nurses to aged care and building a skilled and supported workforce to meet the needs and rights of older people.”
Aside from APNA, other organisations funded to deliver the program nationally until 30 June 2027 include Pop-Up Health, the University of Canberra, Hunter Primary Care, and Brightwater Care Group. All workplaces involved in the program receive administrative and educational support, helping them focus on delivering quality care while hosting future nurses.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
