Healthcare and Nursing Job Vacancies in Australia for Foreign Workers
Australia has one of the fastest-growing healthcare sectors in the world. With an aging population, expanding hospitals, and increased demand for healthcare services, there is a significant need for international talent. The healthcare and nursing job vacancies in Australia for foreign workers offer an excellent opportunity for skilled professionals to work, live, and grow in a thriving environment.
From registered nurses to allied health professionals, hospitals and clinics across Australia are actively hiring foreign workers with visa sponsorship options. This guide provides a detailed overview of job requirements, salary & benefits, how to apply with official career links, and FAQs for overseas healthcare professionals.

Why Australia Needs Foreign Healthcare Workers
Australia is experiencing a shortage of healthcare professionals due to:
- Rapidly aging population
- Increased patient demand
- Expansion of rural and metropolitan healthcare facilities
- Shortage of trained nurses and specialists in regional areas
To address this gap, Australian hospitals, aged care centers, and health services actively recruit foreign workers. These roles are essential for maintaining high-quality healthcare and supporting the country’s healthcare infrastructure.
Top Healthcare and Nursing Job Vacancies Australia
Here are the most in-demand healthcare and nursing jobs for foreign workers in 2026:
1. Registered Nurses (RN)
- General wards, ICU, and emergency departments
- Aged care nursing
- Community health nursing
2. Midwives
- Hospital and clinic-based maternity care
- Antenatal and postnatal support
- Neonatal intensive care
3. Allied Health Professionals
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational therapists
- Speech pathologists
- Radiographers and lab technicians
4. Medical Specialists
- Doctors in shortage specialties such as psychiatry, anesthesiology, and geriatrics
- Surgeons and general practitioners
5. Support Staff
- Personal care assistants
- Nursing aides
- Hospital administrative staff
Requirements for Nursing Job Vacancies Australia for Foreign Workers
While specific roles may have unique requirements, most healthcare and nursing job vacancies Australia require:
1. Educational Qualification
- Nursing degree or diploma recognized in your home country
- Must meet the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) standards
2. Work Experience
- Minimum 1–3 years of clinical experience for most roles
- Specialist roles may require 5+ years
3. English Proficiency
- IELTS Academic minimum 7.0 overall (or equivalent)
- Required for ANMAC registration and visa eligibility
4. Registration with Nursing Board
- Must register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
- Allied health professionals may require other boards depending on their role
5. Skills Assessment
- Required for overseas applicants through ANMAC
- Confirms your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards
6. Visa Eligibility
- Employer-sponsored visa (Subclass 482) or skilled independent visa (Subclass 189/190)
- Some employers provide relocation support
7. Background Checks
- Clean criminal record
- Medical and health check
Salary & Benefits for Healthcare and Nursing Jobs Vacancies in Australia
Australia offers competitive compensation for foreign healthcare workers, reflecting both skill and demand.
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary (AUD) | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $70,000 – $110,000 | Visa sponsorship, relocation support, superannuation |
| Midwife | $75,000 – $120,000 | Paid annual leave, professional development |
| Allied Health Professional | $65,000 – $105,000 | Health insurance, relocation support |
| Medical Specialist | $120,000 – $250,000 | Visa support, bonuses, housing assistance |
| Nursing Aides & Assistants | $55,000 – $75,000 | Paid leave, relocation, training |
Additional Benefits Include:
- Health insurance and superannuation contributions
- Paid leave (annual, sick, parental)
- Relocation assistance for overseas hires
- Career development and training programs
- Opportunities for long-term contracts and permanent residency
How to Apply – Official Career Links
Applying for healthcare and nursing job vacancies Australia for foreign workers is straightforward if you use official channels:
1. Government Portals
- Australian Public Service Health Jobs: https://www.apsjobs.gov.au
- State health services portals (e.g., NSW Health, Victoria Health, Queensland Health)
2. Hospital & Company Career Pages
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Ramsay Health Care: https://www.ramsayhealth.com.au/careers
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St John of God Health Care: https://sjog.org.au/careers
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Bupa Aged Care: https://www.bupa.com.au/careers
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Medibank Health: https://www.medibank.com.au/careers
3. Steps to Apply
- Create an account on the portal or hospital career page
- Search for jobs that match your qualifications and experience
- Prepare documents: resume (Australian format), cover letter, certificates, English test results
- Apply online and submit supporting documents
- Attend interviews or skills assessment if required
- Receive job offer and employer-sponsored visa assistance
Conclusion
The healthcare and nursing job vacancies in Australia for foreign workers present excellent opportunities for skilled professionals looking to work abroad. With competitive salaries, visa sponsorship, relocation support, and a stable work environment, Australia is an ideal destination for nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, and medical specialists.
Foreign workers who meet education, experience, and registration requirements have a high chance of securing employment in reputable hospitals and health services across the country. By following official application procedures and preparing required documents, overseas workers can enjoy a rewarding career in Australia’s thriving healthcare sector.
FAQ
1. Can foreign nurses work in Australia?
Yes, registered nurses and other healthcare professionals can work in Australia with ANMAC assessment and AHPRA registration.
2. Are visa sponsorships available?
Many hospitals offer employer-sponsored visas (Subclass 482) and relocation support.
3. What qualifications are required?
A nursing degree or diploma, clinical experience, and English proficiency are essential.
4. Where can I apply?
Official government portals (https://www.apsjobs.gov.au) and hospital career pages.
5. How long is the hiring process?
It generally takes 4–8 weeks, depending on registration and visa processing.