Australia’s nursing crisis. Why nurses are looking for a career change.
Australia is facing a significant nursing workforce crisis, with a growing number of nurses leaving the profession due to various challenges. This exodus not only affects the healthcare system but also opens discussions about alternative career paths for nurses.
Why are nurses leaving the profession?
1. Inadequate recompense
A primary concern among nurses is the disparity in wages across states. For example, Queensland nurses have rejected a proposed pay rise of 3% in 2025, followed by two annual increases of 2.5%, considering it insufficient compared to the 7.1% annual increase secured by Victorian nurses. Similarly, New South Wales nurses are advocating for a one-off 15% wage increase to address financial stress and achieve pay equity with other states.
2. Burnout and overwork
The demanding nature of nursing, intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to extensive burnout. Nurses report working extra shifts, skipping meals, and facing tremendous workloads, particularly in emergency departments that resemble ‘war zones’.
3. Limited scope of practice
Policy and funding restrictions often prevent nurses from working to their full potential. Approximately one-third of primary healthcare nurses feel ‘held back’ by systemic barriers, leading to job dissatisfaction and thoughts of leaving the profession.
4. Workforce shortages
Australia is projected to face a shortfall of over 70,000 nurses by 2035. This deficiency increases the workload on existing staff, further contributing to burnout and attrition, not to mention the impact on patients.
Alternative career paths for nurses
1. Healthcare administration
Roles such as medical and health services managers involve overseeing healthcare facilities’ operations, requiring organisational and leadership skills intrinsic in nursing.
2. Education and training
Becoming a nurse educator allows professionals to train and mentor the next generation of nurses, often in academic settings, and can be rewarding.
3. Health informatics
Nurses can transition into health informatics, focusing on managing and analysing health information systems to improve patient care.
4. Medical writing and communications
With their clinical knowledge, nurses can pursue careers in medical writing, creating content for healthcare publications, educational materials, or pharmaceutical companies.
5. Public health and policy
Engaging in public health roles of policymaking allows nurses to influence healthcare systems and advocate for community health improvements.
Steps to Transition
- Self-Assessment: Identify transferable skills and interests to define suitable alternative careers.
- Education and Training: Gain relevant additional credentials or certifications.
- Networking: Connect with professionals in the chosen field to gain insights and opportunities.
- Professional Guidance: Seek career counselling to navigate the transition effectively.
While the challenges in the nursing profession are significant, they also present opportunities for development and diversification. By exploring alternative career options, nurses can continue to contribute purposefully to society while attaining personal and professional fulfilment.
Wanting to make a career change… we’ll help you get started.
Since 1989, Sydney Career Coaching has been guiding career change for teachers through career transitions and enabling them to improve their personal and professional lives. Our coaches are proficient in career counselling, executive coaching, outplacement services, and life coaching – helping nurses identify their strengths, explore options, and create a clear action plan.
Want to take control of your future?
Life doesn’t end here, and neither does your career! If nursing is no longer fulfilling, know that there is life beyond the hospital for nurses wanting a career change. You have skills that are valuable across multiple industries.
Are you ready to explore new possibilities? Get in touch!
Tina Monk
0413 000 010
help@sydneycareercoaching.com.au
Complimentary career coaching introduction
Take advantage of our complimentary career coaching session to determine whether coaching is for you. We provide career coaching advice throughout Australia remotely (Zoom), over the telephone and in person at our offices in Neutral Bay on Sydney’s North Shore.