AUSTRALIA | More than AUD $18 million has been pledged by the Government to support nursing students entering the aged care sector.
The Albanese Government is investing $18.4 million to support thousands of nursing students through the Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placements Program.
This renewed funding will support up to 8,000 nursing students to develop practical skills in the care of older people to manage their unique clinical care needs.
The program provides students an opportunity to experience the benefits of working in the care and support sector early in their career with the aim of increasing the supply of skilled and dedicated nurses in aged care.
The program is available to Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Nursing students and is now also open to Diploma of Nursing students, allowing more students to gain practical skills.
Students are supported by trained clinical facilitators and have access to an online resource hub throughout their placement. These dedicated resources enable students to further enhance their skills in gerontological care.
Funded organisations include the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association, Pop-Up Health, University of Canberra, Hunter Primary Care and Brightwater Care Group.
Minister for Aged Care Hon Anika Wells said that it was essential to support nurses in aged care.
“Skilled nurses play an integral role in aged care, helping keep residents safe while reducing medical emergencies through early intervention,” said Minister Wells.
“During 2023-24, we supported over 2,000 students to build these specialised skills through high quality, on-the-job, training and the ability to better understand and address the unique health needs of older people in care.”
Minister Wells added that the funding would support future generations of nurses entering the aged care sector.
“The Albanese Government’s $18.4m investment means an additional 8,000 nursing students will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the rewards of providing quality care to older people.
“Our continued support of this program demonstrates the Albanese Government’s commitment to attracting nurses to aged care and building a skilled and supported workforce to meet the needs and rights of older people.”
More news here.
