Types of Nursing Jobs and Their Highest Salaries in Australia Year 2023

Are you curious about the highest-paid nurses in Australia because you plan to study one? We have you covered, so stop looking elsewhere!

In Australia, nursing is a profession of great importance. Nurses are vital in giving patients the care they need, especially when in need. Nurses provide various services, from keeping track of their health to emotional support.

Because older people frequently need more care and assistance, Australia’s aging population also contributes to the rising demand for nurses. In Australia, nursing is a highly regarded profession that offers competitive pay and the chance to improve patients’ lives significantly.

Given the high demand for nurses worldwide, including in Australia, the nation has implemented several measures to draw in many nursing professionals. These include offering alluring compensation packages and making obtaining permanent residency in Australia easier by pursuing nursing studies.

In this article, brought to you by education ONE, we will delve into the 19 highest-paid nursing positions in Australia for 2023. Get ready to explore the rewarding possibilities that await you in the nursing field! Here is the list of the 19 highest-paid nurses in Australia:

1. Nurse Practitioner – $129,500
2. Nurse Consultant – $118,721
3. Nurse Manager – $116,441
4. Emergency Room Registered Nurse – $108,784
5. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) – $104,018
6. Clinical Nurse Specialist – $102,708
7. Nurse Educator – $102,343
8. Mental Health Nurse – $97,891
9. Travel Nurse – $96,616
10. Public Health Nurse – $95,935
11. Paediatric Nurse – $91,444
12. Cardiac Nurse – $88,879
13. Nurse Midwife – $84,611
14. Oncology Nurse – $83,372
15. Perioperative Nurse – $82,979
16. Orthopaedic Nurse – $80,963
17. Nurse Case Manager – $80,963
18. Registered Nurse (RN) – $80,015
19. Home Care Registered Nurse – $78,964

Keep reading to discover the detailed qualifications needed for each position, the job forecast in the field, and the senior-level salaries associated with these roles. Our comprehensive analysis will give you a thorough understanding of what it takes to excel in these high-paying nursing positions.

Exploring Lucrative Nursing Careers: Unveiling the Highest-Paid Nurses in Australia

Nurses are experts in the health sector with many roles in it. Of course, they will have a very significant influence by treating and meeting patient needs. There are many types of nursing jobs around the world that require different degrees of study and experience.

Studying nursing in Australia can be an enriching and educational experience. Australia boasts some of the highest quality nursing education in the world, with universities and colleges offering a range of degree and diploma programs to suit your individual needs. Nursing in Australia is highly respected and offers excellent career prospects. 

You will also benefit from Australia’s unique cultural and social environment, with various activities and experiences to enrich your learning. With its stunning natural scenery, diverse population and welcoming culture, Australia is a fantastic place to study nursing.

Suppose you love to help others and are interested in channelling it through nursing. This list of the highest-paid nurses in Australia might help you plan your future career.

There are various types of nurses and salaries in Australia. The salary range is taken from Talent. Check out the 19 highest-paid nurses in Australia for 2023 below.

Nurse Practitioner – $129,500

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a healthcare professional trained to provide a range of healthcare services to patients, including diagnosis and treatment of illnesses, promotion of health and prevention of disease, and coordination of care. 

NPs have advanced knowledge and skills in diagnosing and managing common medical conditions, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and prescribing medications. That’s why NP is one of the highest-paid nurses in Australia for 2023.

They often provide complete health care to patients in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and private practice. NPs strive to provide holistic, evidence-based, patient-centred care and focus on improving outcomes.

• Entry-level salary potential: $126,676.00
• Average salary: $129,500.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $135,726.00
• Educational requirements: Minimum of graduate certificate in specialty area in addition to specific NP master’s level education
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Nurse Practitioner in Australia per hour: $62.26
• Salary of Nurse Practitioner in Australia per month: $10,791.67

Nurse Consultant – $118,721

The second highest-paid nurse in Australia in 2023 is a Nurse Consultant, and they provide advice, guidance, and support to healthcare professionals, organisations, and patients. They may provide expert advice on various topics, including medical and nursing practice, clinical casework, patient care, legal and ethical issues, and health policy. 

Nurse Consultants are often respected as leaders in their field, with the ability to review and evaluate existing practices, create new programs, and provide solutions to problems. They may also work to provide education and training to other nurses within their organisation, helping to ensure the quality of care.

• Entry-level salary potential:: $114,400.00
• Average salary: $118,721.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $125,776.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor of Nursing, often at a master’s level
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Nurse Practitioner in Australia per hour: $57.08
• Salary of a Nurse Practitioner in Australia per month: $9,893.42

Nurse Manager – $116,441

A Nurse Manager is responsible for managing the nursing staff and overseeing the daily operations of a healthcare facility. This role is multifaceted, requiring strong leadership and clinical skills. 

Nurse Managers are responsible for providing high-quality patient care, developing and implementing policies and procedures, managing budgets, and ensuring that all facility regulations are met. They also serve as a liaison between the nursing staff, the medical staff, and the administration, which requires excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

• Entry-level salary potential: $102,311.00
• Average salary: $116,441.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $128,341.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor of Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 6%
• Salary of a Nurse Manager in Australia per hour: $55.98
• Salary of Nurse Manager in Australia per month: $9,703.42

Looking to embark on a nursing career in Australia through education? Eager to join the ranks of the highest-paid nurses in the country? Look no further – we’re here to assist you! Take the first step by scheduling a FREE CONSULTATION session with our Career Development Consultant. Discover how you can study, work, and successfully migrate to Australia. Don’t miss out on this opportunity – book your session today!

Emergency Room Registered Nurse – $108,784

Emergency Room Registered Nurses (ER RNs) are another highest-paid nurses in Australia because they play a vital role in providing life-saving care to patients in the emergency room. 

They assess patient needs, provide medical treatments and medications, order and interpret lab tests, monitor vital signs, and provide emotional support to patients and their families. 

ER RN must have excellent communication and critical thinking skills and a strong understanding of emergency procedures and protocols. You will also need strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with patients, families, and coworkers. ER RNs collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide the best care possible.

• Entry-level salary potential: $82,472.00
• Average salary: $108,784.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $135,069.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor of Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 6%
• Salary of Emergency Room Registered Nurse in Australia per hour: $52.30
• Salary of Emergency Room Registered Nurse in Australia per month: $9,065.33

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) – $104,018

A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is an advanced practice registered nurse specialising in administering anaesthesia for surgical and medical procedures. 

CRNAs work with anesthesiologists and other medical staff to assess the patient’s health, develop an anaesthetic plan, and provide the necessary care and monitoring before, during, and after the procedure. 

CRNAs are highly trained and experienced healthcare professionals responsible for providing safe and effective anaesthesia care to patients of all ages.

• Entry-level salary potential: $77,000.00
• Average salary: $104,018.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $258,000.00
• Educational requirements: Masters in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) in Australia per hour: $50.01
• Salary of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) in Australia per month: $8,668.17

Clinical Nurse Specialist – $102,708

A Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice registered nurse with specialised knowledge and experience in a particular area of patient care. They provide direct care to patients and families and support and education to other healthcare providers. 

CNSs are experts in their field and can provide evidence-based practice to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes. They often act as a liaison between the patient, family, and healthcare team to ensure that the care provided is individualised and meets the patient’s needs. 

They may also conduct research and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop new standards of care. Clinical Nurse Specialist is on our highest-paid nurses in Australia list.

• Entry-level salary potential: $101,010.00
• Average salary: $102,708.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $121,184.00
• Educational requirements: Masters in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Clinical Nurse Specialist in Australia per hour: $49.38
• Salary of Clinical Nurse Specialist in Australia per month: $8,559

Also Read: Your Frequently Asked Question About Courses That Can Lead To Australian PR

Nurse Educator – $102,343

A Nurse Educator is among the highest-paid nurses in Australia; why? Because Nurse Educator is a Registered Nurse responsible for educating nurses and other healthcare professionals. They are responsible for creating educational materials, conducting in-service training, and providing continuing education opportunities. 

They also provide guidance and assistance to nurses in developing their clinical skills. Nurse Educators often act as mentors and advisors to nurses, providing support and guidance in their professional development. 

They are an essential resource in the healthcare community, helping to ensure that healthcare professionals are adequately trained and knowledgeable about current medical practices.

• Entry-level salary potential: $99,460.00
• Average salary: $102,343.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $124,091.00
• Educational requirements: A master’s in nursing with either a specialty in nursing education, a post-master’s certification in nursing education or coursework in specific nursing education topics.
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Nurse Educator in Australia per hour: $49.20
• Salary of Nurse Educator in Australia per month: $8,528.58

Mental Health Nurse – $97,891

A Mental Health Nurse is a professional healthcare provider specialising in treating clients with mental health issues; this has become one of the highest-paid nursing jobs in Australia.

Mental Health Nurses provide compassionate, individualised care to clients and their families while providing treatment and support. They work closely with psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals to ensure their clients receive the best care. Mental Health Nurses may also provide education and support to family members and caregivers of those with mental health issues. 

They strive to empower their clients to take an active role in their mental health care by providing them with the tools and resources to make informed decisions. Ultimately, Mental Health Nurses work to promote proactive recovery and preventative care for their clients.

• Entry-level salary potential: $80,000.00
• Average salary: $97,891.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $119,394.00
• Educational requirements: Master of Mental Health Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 15.6%
• Salary of Mental Health Nurse in Australia per hour: $47.06
• Salary of Mental Health Nurse in Australia per month: $8,157.58

Travel Nurse – $96,616

A Travel Nurse is a Registered Nurse (RN) who works in various healthcare settings for a predetermined amount of time, usually for 13 weeks. Travel Nurses care for patients needing short-term medical attention and typically work in hospitals, medical centres, and other healthcare facilities. 

They may care for patients with various medical conditions, illnesses, and injuries. Additionally, Travel Nurses assist in implementing care plans, monitor patient health, and provide education and support to patients and their families.

That’s sure a lot of expertise and time is needed to become a Travel Nurse, no wonder why they are on our highest-paid nurses in Australia list.

• Entry-level salary potential: $88,452.00
• Average salary: $96,616.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $155,552.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 7%
• Salary of Travel Nurse in Australia per hour: $46.45
• Salary of Travel Nurse in Australia per month: $8,051.33

Public Health Nurse – $95,935

A public health nurse is a Registered Nurse (RN) who works to improve the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. 

Public health nurses provide health assessments, screenings, educational services, and resources to help individuals and families lead healthier lives. They work with local health departments and community organisations to ensure access to quality health care. 

Public health nurses are dedicated to creating a healthier world and deserve to be among the highest-paid nurses in Australia. 

They strive to reduce health disparities, promote health equity, and foster healthy environments and lifestyles. Public health nurses also work to identify health risks and promote health education.

• Entry-level salary potential: $78,964.00
• Average salary: $95,935.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $123,590.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 5.4%
• Salary of Public Health Nurse in Australia per hour: $46.12
• Salary of Public Health Nurse in Australia per month: $7,994.58

Contact us today to discover how you can seize this incredible opportunity. Check your qualification for FREE and take the first step towards a brighter future.

Paediatric Nurse – $91,444

A Paediatric Nurse is a Registered Nurse (RN) with a good salary in Australia. 

They specialise in providing care to infants, children, and adolescents. They are responsible for assessing patients’ physical, mental, and emotional health, providing preventive care and treatments, and educating families on how to care for their children. 

Paediatric nurses work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practices. They are dedicated to providing the highest quality care to their young patients and their families.

• Entry-level salary potential: $78,964.00
• Average salary: $91,444.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $118,820.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 13.9%
• Salary of Paediatric Nurse in Australia per hour: $43.96
• Salary of Paediatric Nurse in Australia per month: $7,620.33

Cardiac Nurse – $88,879

A Cardiac Nurse is a registered nurse who specialises in caring for patients with heart-related conditions. Their role involves providing thorough assessment, diagnosis, treatments, and long-term care for patients with heart problems.

As one of the highest-paid nurses in Australia, Cardiac Nurses also educate patients and families about cardiac conditions and treatments. They are a valuable resource to the healthcare team and play a vital role in helping patients understand their situation and manage their care.

• Entry-level salary potential: $78,964.00
• Average salary: $88,879.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $109,580.00
• Educational requirements: Graduate Diploma in Nursing Science (Cardiac Nursing)
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Cardiac Nurse in Australia per hour: $42.73
• Salary of Cardiac Nurse in Australia per month: $7,406.58

Nurse Midwife – $84,611

Nurse midwives are advanced practice registered nurses specialising in providing women with obstetric, gynaecological, and newborn care. They provide primary care for women throughout their lifespans, from adolescence through menopause. 

In addition to providing preventive care and gynaecological exams, nurse midwives are trained to diagnose clinical conditions, prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and perform minor procedures. 

They can also provide family planning services, support, and education to pregnant women and their families. Nurse midwives work in various settings, including hospitals, health clinics, private practices, and home birth settings.

• Entry-level salary potential: $78,964.00
• Average salary: $84,611.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $118,125.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• The salary of a Nurse Midwife in Australia per hour: $40.68
• Salary of a Nurse Midwife in Australia per month: $7,050.92

Oncology Nurse – $83,372

An Oncology Nurse is a highly skilled and trained nurse who specialises in caring for patients with cancer and their families. Oncology Nurses provide physical, emotional and psychological support to patients undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. 

They monitor the patient’s progress, teach them about their disease and treatments, provide comfort and emotional support, and help with pain management. Oncology Nurses also help patients and families with end-of-life decisions, grief counselling, and other aspects of palliative care. 

It is a rewarding job that requires a high level of empathy and compassion for those in need. That’s why Oncology Nurses are sitting as one of the highest-paid nurses in Australia.

• Entry-level salary potential: $78,964.00
• Average salary: $83,372.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $118,790.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of an Oncology Nurse in Australia per hour: $40.08
• Salary of an Oncology Nurse in Australia per month: $6,947.67

Perioperative Nurse – $82,979

A Perioperative Nurse is a Registered Nurse specialising in providing care to patients before, during and after surgery.

As one of the highest-paid nurses in Australia, they are responsible for assessing patients before surgery, preparing them for surgery, performing the surgery, and providing post-operative care. Perioperative Nurses ensure that the patient is safe and comfortable throughout the surgical process. 

They also know pharmacology, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and sterile techniques. Perioperative Nurses work closely with other healthcare professionals and are an integral part of the healthcare team.

• Entry-level salary potential: $77,393.00
• Average salary: $82,979.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $118,484.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Perioperative Nurse in Australia per hour: $39.89
• Salary of Perioperative Nurse in Australia per month: $6,914.92

Also Read: Permanent Residency Benefits In Australia 2022 Update!

Orthopaedic Nurse – $80,963

An Orthopaedic Nurse is a specialised nurse who provides care to patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions, such as broken bones, joint and muscle problems, spine and foot issues, and other bone and joint-related disorders. 

They provide comprehensive patient assessment and care, including pre-operative and post-operative care, physical and occupational therapy, pain management, and patient education. They also collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans and monitor patient progress. 

Orthopaedic Nurses must have a strong understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology to provide their patients with the highest quality of care.

• Entry-level salary potential: $77,386.00
• Average salary: $80,963.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $114,032.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Orthopaedic Nurse in Australia per hour: $38.92
• Salary of Orthopaedic Nurse in Australia per month: $6,746.92

Nurse Case Manager – $80,963

A Nurse Case Manager is another Registered Nurse with an exciting salary in Australia who works with individuals, families, and communities to coordinate and provide personalised, comprehensive care. They bridge the gap between medical and social services to ensure that the patient receives the best care. 

They help to identify patient needs, coordinate resources and develop care plans. They also provide patient education and advocacy and work closely with patients and their care providers to ensure the delivery of quality care.

• Entry-level salary potential: $77,386.00
• Average salary: $80,963.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $104,411.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Orthopaedic Nurse in Australia per hour: $38.92
• Salary of Orthopaedic Nurse in Australia per month: $6,746.92

Registered Nurse (RN) – $80,015

A Registered Nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional licensed and qualified to provide medical care and services to individuals of all ages. They are responsible for assessing patient needs, developing care plans, and providing education and support to patients and their families. 

RNs are a vital part of the healthcare team and are essential to providing comprehensive, quality care to all patients. RNs typically specialise in a field such as a paediatrics, geriatrics, oncology, or psychiatry. They may also assist doctors with procedures and manage medication.

• Entry-level salary potential: $76,147.00
• Average salary: $80,015.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $97,916.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Registered Nurse in Australia per hour: $38.47
• Salary of Registered Nurse in Australia per month: $6,667.92

Home Care Registered Nurse – $78,964

A Home Care Registered Nurse is the last in the “highest-paid nursing jobs in Australia” list. They are a professional healthcare provider who helps individuals and families manage their health and well-being in the comfort of their homes. 

This type of nurse provides a wide range of services, including monitoring vital signs, administering medications, providing wound care, and educating patients and caregivers about disease management and health promotion. 

Home Care Registered Nurses also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients.

• Entry-level salary potential: $77,022.00
• Average salary: $78,964.00
• Senior-level salary potential: $82,301.00
• Educational requirements: Bachelor in Nursing
• Job growth forecast: 9%
• Salary of Home Care Registered Nurse in Australia per hour: $37.96
• Salary of Home Care Registered Nurse in Australia per month: $6,580.33

Also Read: Powerful Benefits to Gain if You Study in Regional Australia in 2022

Your Nursing Studies in Australia Today. Get in Touch for Further Details

Nursing is a highly demanding and highly paid profession because it is an essential occupation requiring specialised knowledge and skills. Nursing professionals direct care to patients, often in challenging and life-threatening situations. 

The combination of high demand and specialised skills makes the list above the highest-paid nurse jobs in Australia.

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