Nursing in Australia: Real Stories from the Heart of Care

Nursing in Australia isn’t just a job — it’s a calling. Whether in hospitals, homes, rural clinics, or city hubs, nurses play a critical role in every aspect of care. As of late 2023, there are more than 480,000 registered nurses and midwives across the country. Yet despite these numbers, Australia is still heading toward a projected shortfall of over 70,000 nurses by 2035. The need for skilled, compassionate professionals has never been greater.

It’s a challenge that affects us all — and one of the reasons Australia has long welcomed nurses from around the world. At Lumia Care, we’re proud to support not only locally trained professionals but also those who’ve chosen to bring their experience, care, and commitment to Australian communities. Because no matter where your journey starts, nursing is about people — and people need people everywhere. 

Two of those people — Scott and Aimee — recently shared their stories with us, offering a glimpse into life as a community nurse and what makes the work so rewarding. 

Meet Scott: A Nurse Who Sees Every Wound as a Puzzle to Solve

Scott is part of our Specialised Wound Assessment Team, where he brings precision, care, and curiosity to every case. With a passion for clinical challenges and a belief in getting the fundamentals right, Scott shares his nursing journey with us. 

What area do you specialise in, and what drew you to it? 

I specialise in wound care, and I have always found wounds interesting as they are like puzzles and you gotta try and solve them. 

What do you love most about being a nurse? 

I love seeing my clients have a good outcome with their health. 

What’s one health tip you wish more people knew? 

Moisturise your legs! Dry skin isn’t just uncomfortable — it can lead to cracks, irritation, or even ulcers in older adults or people with limited mobility. It’s one of the simplest ways to support skin integrity and prevent complications.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a nurse? 

My advice would be to start as a personal care worker and really get the basics of personal care down — that's half the job. 

What drew you to working at Lumia Care? 

I chose to work at Lumia Care because I wanted a change and a challenge. 

Meet Aimee: A Nurse Who’s Passionate About Preventative Health and Care at Home

Aimee works in our Community Nursing Program, where she focuses on preventative health and empowering clients to stay well at home. Her commitment to accessible, holistic care is at the heart of what Lumia Care stands for. 

What area do you specialise in, and what drew you to it? 

I specialise in community care and preventative health. What drew me to this area was the chance to help people in their homes. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about empowering individuals to take control of their health — helping people stay out of hospital beds, instead of only treating them once they're already in one. 

What do you love most about being a nurse? 

It’s the privilege of being there for people in their most vulnerable moments. Whether it’s offering comfort, support, or education, every interaction is meaningful. No two days are the same, and that constant variety keeps me inspired. 

What’s one health tip you wish more people knew? 

Drink more water than coffee! Hydration really is the unsung hero of good health. Bonus tip: if you’re feeling tired, start with a glass of water before reaching for caffeine. Your kidneys and your skin will thank you. 

What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a nurse? 

Do it for the passion, not just the paycheck. Nursing is equal parts science, empathy, and stamina. If you’re in it for the right reasons, it will challenge you, reward you, and change how you see the world. 

What drew you to working at Lumia Care? 

The innovative approach. Lumia Care brings healthcare directly into communities in a way that’s accessible, inclusive, and genuinely patient-focused. It’s not just about treating illness; it’s about building trust and promoting overall wellbeing from the ground up. 

What Makes Nursing in Australia So Rewarding? 

Ask any nurse what keeps them going, and you’ll rarely hear the word “routine.” That’s because nursing in Australia offers incredible variety — not just in the work itself, but in where and how it’s done. From bustling hospitals to home visits, from remote communities to urban clinics, no two days are the same — and that’s part of the appeal. 
 
Whether you're drawn to aged care, wound management, mental health, disability support, or something entirely different, there’s a path for you here. And with growing demand for skilled nurses, your expertise won’t just be welcomed — it will be essential. 
 
Many nurses also value the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with diverse communities and work in flexible environments that support work-life balance. For those looking to create long-term impact, it’s a career that offers both personal and professional fulfilment. 

Build Your Nursing Career with Lumia Care 

At Lumia Care, we provide more than just employment — we offer a career pathway built on care, clinical quality, and community impact. Whether you're looking for community nursing jobs, hospital-in-the-home roles, or want to explore nursing opportunities in aged care, we’ve got a place for you. 

If you're a nurse or midwife thinking about a fresh start in Australia, there's more than just opportunity waiting — there's also a warm welcome. When you join Lumia Care through our International team as a Registered Nurse or Midwife with AHPRA registration, and complete 400 hours within your first six months, we’ll thank you with a $1,000 bonus*. It’s a small way to say: we’re glad you’re here. Click here to learn more. 

 *Terms and conditions apply. Offer ends June 2026.  
 

Sources

• ANMF Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Overview (2023) 

• Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), September 2023

• Department of Health and Aged Care, Nursing Supply and Demand Study 2023–2035