33 Types of Nurses in Australia: Nursing Specialties

Overview

Registered nurses make up the bulk of Australia's nursing workforce, and each can choose from dozens of potential specialisations. They can also advance into specialist roles such as clinical nurse or nurse practitioner, or into management, education, or research positions. Along with RNs, we also have enrolled nurses, assistant nurses, dental assistants, not to mention vet nurses.

With an ageing population, Jobs and Skills Australia projects consistent growth in nursing jobs. Employment of registered nurses and midwives is expected to expand by around 12.2% from 2023 to 2028. Annual growth exceeding 2% is also anticipated for most other nursing categories.

Nurse salaries are well known as many nurses are employed in the public sector and paid under state and territory awards. Which specialisation an RN chooses often is not significant to their salary; more significant are postgraduate qualifications and career progression into specialised and senior roles.

Nurse Types and Popular Specialisations

Here are 33 of the most significant types of nurses in Australia, based on internet search volumes. If you're interested in becoming a nurse or choosing a speciality field, this list should help answer your questions or at least guide you towards the knowledge you seek.

Acute Care Nurse

An Acute Care Nurse treats patients with severe, short-term illnesses or injuries. Similar roles: Critical Care Nurse, Emergency Nurse.
Education: Nursing degree, plus postgraduate education in acute care nursing.
Job outlook: Solid growth of 12.2% over the next 5 years, in line with growinng demand for nurses generally.
Salary: Average salary of $86,861, consistent with pay rates for registered nurses.
Role: Acute Care Nurses perform rapid assessments, manage emergency interventions, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals. They typically work in hospital settings in Australia.

Advanced Practice Nurse

By definition, an Advanced Practice Nurse operates at a higher level of expertise and autonomy, managing patients with complex healthcare needs.
Education: Nursing degree followed by postgraduate qualifications, such as a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, or Master of Nursing in a specialty area.
Job outlook: 12.2% over the five years to 2028.
Salary: High due to advanced skills and leadership roles. In NSW, a Clinical Nurse Specialist Grade 2 earns $113,556 annually.
Role: These nurses lead and work autonomously in various healthcare settings. Their roles may include Clinical Nurse Specialist Grade 2, Nurse Practitioner, or Clinical Nurse Consultant. They do complex decision-making, integrate research into practice, and contribute to professional leadership and education.

Aged Care Nurse

Aged Care Nurses care for the elderly in community care, residential facilities, and health care institutions. Alternative name: Registered Nurse (Aged Care), Geriatric Nurse.
Education: A nursing degree, alongside specialist aged care experience. Enrolled nurses with a Diploma of Nursing often work in this sector also.
Job Outlook: The ageing population is expected to drive above-average increases in demand for this role. Residential aged care homes across Australia are required to have an RN on-site at all times.
Salary: Average salary of $86,861, consistent with pay rates for other registered nurses.
Role: Aged Care Nurses provide comprehensive care to the elderly, coordinating with health care teams, administering treatments, engaging in health education, and overseeing the work of other health professionals.

Anaesthetic Nurse

An Anaesthetic Nurse specialises in anaesthesia support during surgeries.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing, with perioperative and anaesthetic care experience. Postgraduate studies can be beneficial.
Job outlook: 12.2% growth expected over 5 years to 2028.
Salary: Similar to RN rates, average AUD $86,861, with additional allowances for postgraduate qualifications.
Role: Supports anaesthetists by managing equipment, assisting with anaesthesia, and monitoring patients. In Australia, roles such as 'Nurse Anaesthetist' do not exist; instead, medically qualified anaesthetists lead all anaesthesia procedures.

Assistant in Nursing

An entry-level support role in healthcare, known as an Assistant in Nursing (AIN). Alternative names: Nursing Assistant, Nursing Aide.
Education: Typically requires completion of a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance.
Job outlook: Stable employment levels projected, with 0.0% growth over the next five years.
Salary: The base income for a first-year AIN is $50,337 in NSW. With experience, this can increase to a maximum $55,226.
Role: AINs work under the supervision of Registered Nurses, providing essential support and care to patients. They assist with daily living activities, monitor vital signs, and contribute to the overall care plan. AINs maintain patient comfort and support the healthcare team in acute and aged care settings.

Clinical Nurse Consultant

A Clinical Nurse Consultant is an advanced practice nurse who leads nursing care and upholds quality standards within a specific nursing field.
Education: Nursing degree, with postgraduate qualifications preferably to master's level.
Job outlook: Expected 12.2% growth over 5 years to 2028.
Salary: Averages around $128,802 annually, varying across states and territories.
Role: Coordinates and leads nursing care, provides expert support, manages complex cases, and enhances patient care quality. The role combines clinical expertise with leadership, akin to a store manager or project manager in other fields.

Clinical Nurse Educator

A Clinical Nurse Educator is a nurse who develops and implements training programs for nursing staff. Other names: Nurse Educator, Staff Development Nurse.
Education: Requires a nursing degree and postgraduate qualifications, starting with a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education. A Master's in Nursing Education is becoming increasingly essential for the long term.
Job outlook: Steady growth of 12.2% over 5 years is projected.
Salary: On average, $120,637 in Australia, subject to regional and experiential differences.
Role: They may directly teach and supervise nursing staff, focusing on specialty areas. Nurse educators also assess nursing competencies, create educational resources, and lead training programs. The role ranges from clinical teaching to educational leadership.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

A Clinical Nurse Specialist is a senior-level Registered Nurse with specialised expertise. Alternative names: Clinical Nurse, Level 2 RN.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing and postgraduate qualifications, such as a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nursing.
Job outlook: 12.2% growth expected over 5 years to 2028.
Salary: Average salary across Australia is $107,382 per year. They are just above the most experienced RNs in the nurse salary structure.
Role: Specialising in areas like Anaesthetic, Critical Care, Emergency, Mental Health, Paediatrics, and Perioperative Nursing, CNSs provide advanced care, mentor staff, and lead healthcare improvement initiatives.

Community Nurse

A Community Nurse provides health services outside of hospital settings. Alternative name: Community Care Nurse.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing, with additional training or qualifications in community health nursing.
Job outlook: Increasing demand due to an ageing population and a shift towards community-based health care.
Salary: Comparable to general RN rates, starting at about $72,118 per year.
Role: Community Nurses offer diverse services to patients at home or in residential facilities, including wound care, continence management, palliative care, and post-surgical support.

Continence Nurse

A Continence Nurse aids adults with bladder and bowel management. Alternative names: Continence Nurse Specialist.
Education: Registered Nurse (RN) degree with further specialised training in continence care.
Job outlook: Demand is expected to rise with the ageing population.
Salary: Earnings may be higher than general nursing because role relies on experience and specialisation.
Role: Continence Nurses address issues such as incontinence, frequent toilet needs, leakage during physical activities or sexual intercourse, and bowel complications like constipation or diarrhoea. They provide expert advice on continence aids and offer support for caregivers. Services are delivered through clinic-based visits, home visits, and within residential aged care facilities.

Cosmetic Nurse

A Registered Nurse specialising in non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing, registration with AHPRA, and a postgraduate qualification in cosmetic nursing (such as the Graduate Diploma of Cosmetic Nursing and Injectables).
Job outlook: Growing, driven by demand for cosmetic procedures.
Salary: Varies based on location, experience, and the range of services provided.
Role: Cosmetic Nurses perform procedures like dermal fillers, Botox injections, non-surgical facelifts, and laser treatments. They consult with patients, assess skin conditions, assist in surgeries, and handle administrative tasks. Requires clinical experience and specialised training in cosmetic nursing.

Critical Care Nurse

A nurse providing care of critically ill patients, known as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN). Alternative names: ICU Nurse, Intensive Care Nurse.
Education: Nursing degree and postgraduate qualifications in critical care, acute care, or emergency nursing.
Job outlook: 12.2% growth expected over 5 years to 2028.
Salary: Average of $86,861, with potential for higher earnings in specialised roles.
Role: Critical Care Nurses work in various high acuity settings such as intensive care units, emergency departments, and specialised care units, providing essential care to patients with life-threatening or complex conditions. They are skilled in advanced medical equipment use.

Dental Assistant

Also known as a Dental Nurse, a Dental Assistant assists dentists in patient care.
Education: Certificate III in Dental Assisting (HLT35021) or Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (HLT45021), with options for specialisations such as Dental Radiography.
Job outlook: 13.4% growth in jobs over the 5 years to 2028.
Salary: The average annual salary is around $50-$60k.
Role: Dental Assistants prepare treatment areas, sterilise instruments, assist during dental procedures, educate patients on oral hygiene, and manage patient records and appointments.

Emergency Nurse

An Emergency Nurse is skilled in handling urgent and life-threatening medical conditions. Alternative names: ED Nurse, Triage Nurse.
Education: Nursing degree and postgraduate qualifications in acute care, critical care, or emergency nursing.
Job outlook: 12.2% growth expected over 5 years to 2028.
Salary: Median of $86,861, ranging from $72,118 to $107,382.
Role: Emergency Nurses work in hospital emergency departments, serving as the initial contact in crises and collaborating with other health professionals. They assess, triage, and treat patients with urgent medical needs, focusing on stabilising patients, managing pain, and preventing complications.

Enrolled Nurse

Enrolled Nurses have a support role, technically always acting under the supervision of Registered Nurses.
Education: 18-to-24-month Diploma of Nursing, followed by NMBA registration.
Job outlook: Projected employment growth of 10.7% from 2023 to 2028.
Salary: Starts at AUD $65,195, peaking at around $71,118 after five years.
Role: Enrolled Nurses provide direct patient care, administer medications, and assist with daily nursing tasks under the supervision of Registered Nurses. They are integral in patient support and often specialise in areas like aged care, mental health, and perioperative nursing.

Lactation Consultant

A Lactation Consultant, also known as a Breastfeeding Consultant, provides breastfeeding support.
Education: Typically involves health science education, such as nursing and midwifery, and specific lactation training. IBCLC® (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants) certification requires extensive coursework, clinical hours, and passing a rigorous exam.
Job outlook: Increasing, driven by the growing recognition of breastfeeding support's importance.
Salary: Variable, often higher for IBCLC®s due to their specialised training.
Role: Assists with breastfeeding issues like latching, milk supply, and special cases such as post-surgical breastfeeding. They work in hospitals, clinics, and provide direct home visits to new families. While IBCLC® is a protected title, there are also non-certified consultants.

Maternal and Child Health Nurse

MACH Nurses provide home and community-based support for mothers with children aged 0-5 years. Alternative names: Maternal Health Nurse, Child and Family Health Nurse.
Education: Nursing or midwifery degree with postgraduate qualifications in child and family health nursing. Midwifery qualifications are common.
Job Outlook: Expected growth due to focus on early childhood and family health services.
Salary: Comparable to RN rates, typically around AUD $72,118 to $86,861 per year.
Role: Focused on home and community visits, MACH nurses monitor infant development and guide parents during a child's early years. They perform health assessments, advise on nutrition and breastfeeding, and support parental health.

Mental Health Nurse

Mental Health Nurses attend to patients with psychological conditions, managing their overall care.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing, with mental health postgraduate qualifications such as a Graduate Certificate.
Job outlook: Demand for MHNs is high due to increasing mental wellness issues and awareness.
Salary: Comparable to general RN rates, with potential for higher earnings and qualification allowances through specialisation.
Role: Mental Health Nurses provide care and support to patients with psychological issues in different settings. They administer medication, counsell, and develop care plans. Graduate Diploma and higher qualifications can lead to roles like Credentialed Mental Health Nurse.

Midwife

Midwives specialise in pregnancy, labour, birth, and postnatal care for women and their newborns.
Education: Bachelor of Midwifery or equivalent qualification (refer to Degrees for Nursing).
Job Outlook: Projected growth of 12.2% over five years to May 2028, with 20,900 midwives to be employed in Australia.
Salary: Same as for registered nurses, averaging around $86,861 annually.
Role: Midwives provide comprehensive care during pregnancy, assist during labour and delivery, and support mothers and babies postnatally. They work in hospitals, birthing centres, and may provide home birth services.

Nurse Practitioner

A Nurse Practitioner is a registered nurse with advanced training and endorsement to independently perform medical duties.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing, plus at least three years of specialised clinical experience, and a Master of Nurse Practitioner. Endorsement by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia is required.
Job outlook: 12.2% growth expected over 5 years to 2028.
Salary: Up to AUD $143,509 per year. NPs are the highest-paid nurses in Australia.
Role: Nurse Practitioners (NPs) autonomously diagnose, treat, and manage health conditions, and can specialise in any nursing field. They prescribe medications, conduct diagnostic tests, and make referrals. This role bridges nursing care and medical practice.

Nurse Unit Manager

A Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) leads nursing teams in hospitals, medical centres, and aged care facilities, optimising care quality and administrative efficiency.
Education: Often requires a Master of Nursing, particularly in management or a specialised field. A Graduate Certificate in Nursing Leadership and Management is a popular pathway course.
Job outlook: Projected to grow by 12.1% from 20,800 jobs in 2023 to 23,300 by 2028.
Salary: An average maximum of $133,952 in Australia.
Role: NUMs blend clinical expertise, administrative skill, and leadership to manage finances, personnel, and technological resources. They ensure compliance with healthcare standards, manage finances, develop staff, and adapt to technological changes in healthcare.

Occupational Health Nurse

An Occupational Health Nurse, also known as a Workplace Health and Safety Nurse, supports health and safety in work environments.
Education: A nursing degree, followed by nurse registration with the NMBA.
Job outlook: Projected to grow moderately, reflecting increased emphasis on workplace health and safety.
Salary: In line with RN salaries, though variable as it depends on location, employer, and nature of work.
Role: Conducts risk assessments, develops and implements workplace health policies, educates employees on health and safety practices, manages work-related injuries and illnesses, and collaborates with employers to maintain a healthy work environment.

Oncology Nurse

An Oncology Nurse cares for patients with cancer. Alternative names: Cancer Nurse, Chemo Nurse.
Education: Nursing degree, with postgraduate oncology training.
Job outlook: Expected to grow due to increasing need for cancer care.
Salary: Above median nursing salary of $86,861 per year, reflecting the specialised role.
Role: Oncology nurses assess patients, manage treatment side effects, provide education, and coordinate care within a multidisciplinary team. They administer chemotherapy, support patients emotionally, and may be involved in research and specialist areas like radiation therapy.

Paediatric Nurse

Paediatric Nurses specialise in the care of infants, children, and adolescents.
Education: Nursing degree and postgraduate qualifications, such as a Graduate Certificate in Paediatric Nursing.
Job outlook: 12.2% growth expected over 5 years to 2028.
Salary: Median of AUD $86,861, ranging from $72,118 to $107,382.
Role: Paediatric Nurses work in hospitals and clinics, focusing on children's health. Responsibilities include developmental screenings, vaccinations, and family support, with opportunities to specialise in neonatal care, intensive care, oncology, or emergency nursing.

Perioperative Nurse

Any of the nurses routinely involved in surgeries may be called a perioperative nurse. Perioperative nursing refers to the care of patients before, during, and after surgery.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing, NMBA registration, and postgraduate qualifications such as a Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing.
Job outlook: Expected to grow by 12.2% over the five years to 2028, reflecting the demand for RNs.
Salary: Starts at approximately $72,118 annually, with experienced nurses earning up to $107,382.
Role: Perioperative Nurses prepare patients for surgery, assist during the operation, and provide postoperative care. They handle surgical instruments, ensure aseptic techniques are maintained, and support patient recovery.

Anaesthetic Nurses prepare and manage anaesthesia equipment.
Circulating Nurses oversee the operation room environment and patient safety.
Instrument Nurses, also known as Scrub Nurses, manage surgical tools and assist surgeons.
Recovery Nurses (or Post Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurses) provide care as patients recover from anaesthesia.
Day Surgery Nurses get patients ready and provide necessary information for surgery.

Post Anaesthesia Care Unit Nurse

A Post Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse attends to patients recovering from anaesthesia. Alternative names: Recovery Nurse, PACU Nurse, Perioperative Nurse.
Education: Nursing degree with postgraduate qualifications in anaesthesia or recovery room nursing.
Job outlook: 12.2% growth expected over 5 years to 2028.
Salary: Average of AUD $86,861, with potential for higher earnings in specialised roles.
Role: PACU Nurses monitor patients recovering from anaesthesia post-surgery. They assess respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological statuses, manage post-operative treatments like pain control, and respond to any complications.

Practice Nurse

A Practice Nurse works within General Practice, often referred to as General Practice Nurse (GPN). Alternative names: GP Nurse, Primary Care Nurse.
Education: Nursing degree with opportunities for specialised training in areas such as immunisation, chronic disease management, or health assessments.
Job outlook: 12.2% growth in the 5 years to 2028. Most general practices employ practice nurses.
Salary: Varied based on the practice and experience. Salaries generally align with standard nursing wages.
Role: Practice Nurses perform patient assessments, immunisations, wound care, chronic disease management, and patient education. They often enjoy flexible, family-friendly hours, and work closely with doctors in small teams.

Registered Nurse

Registered Nurse is the foundational nursing role in Australia, with greater than 9 out of 10 of nurses being RNs. Alternative names: Nurse, Division 1 Nurse.
Education: A nurse qualifying degree such as a Bachelor of Nursing, including clinical placements, followed by NMBA registration.
Job outlook: Expected growth of 12.2% from 2023 to 2028.
Salary: Starting at AUD $72,118, with a rise to around $98,692 for experienced RNs.
Role: RNs administer medications, monitor patients, develop care plans, and provide support to patients and families. Specialising into fields such as aged care, critical care or paediatrics, RNs lead in delivering patient care. They may advance to any of the specialist or senior nursing roles.

Scrub Nurse

A Scrub Nurse assists surgeons and the rest of the surgery team during operations. Alternative names: Instrument Nurse, Perioperative Nurse.
Education: Bachelor of Nursing, followed by postgraduate qualifications in perioperative nursing.
Job outlook: Steady growth in jobs, reflecting ongoing needs in surgical settings.
Salary: Around AUD $86,861 per year, comparable to general RN rates.
Role: Scrub Nurses prepare surgical instruments, support surgeons during operations, and maintain aseptic conditions in the operating theatre. They manage the sterile field, assist with surgical procedures, and help ensure smooth operations.

Surgical Nurse

Refer to: Perioperative Nurse
A Surgical Nurse, also recognised as a Theatre Nurse, plays a vital role in surgical procedures. They are responsible for pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative care, ensuring patient safety, managing surgical instruments, and assisting surgeons during operations.

Theatre Nurse

Refer to: Perioperative Nurse
A Theatre Nurse, also known as a Perioperative Nurse or Surgical Nurse, is dedicated to the operating room stage of surgery. Key roles include Scrub Nurse, who handles surgical instruments, and Circulating Nurse, who manages the surgery environment. These roles are crucial for patient care and ensuring procedural efficiency.

Triage Nurse

Refer to: Emergency Nurse
A Triage Nurse, also referred to as an Emergency Nurse, assesses patients as they enter the emergency department. They prioritise patient care based on the severity of conditions, symptoms, and potential for deterioration.

Veterinary Nurse

A Veterinary Nurse, also known as a Vet Nurse, provides medical care and support to animals within veterinary clinics.
Education: Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418), often following qualifications such as Certificate II in Animal Studies.
Job outlook: Steady growth with a projected increase of 5.9% from 2023 to 2028.
Salary: Entry-level positions start at $859.30 weekly under Award wages, with Level 3 Vet Nurses earning up to $995.00 weekly.
Role: Vet Nurses liaise with pet owners, assist in medical procedures, manage surgical equipment, and maintain the cleanliness of veterinary facilities. They are essential in the day-to-day operation of veterinary practices and often have a passion for animal welfare.