GUIDE FOR NURSES TO WORK IN AUSTRALIA

 REGISTER WITH AHPRA

AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing health practitioners in Australia. Registration with AHPRA is mandatory for international health practitioners who wish to work in their respective professions within Australia.

Overview of AHPRA Registration

AHPRA works with 15 National Boards (e.g., Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, Medical Board of Australia, Pharmacy Board of Australia) to regulate specific health professions. Each board has its requirements and processes for registration.

---

Steps for International Practitioners to Register with AHPRA

1. Confirm Eligibility

Check the requirements for your specific profession under the respective National Board:

• Review the standards, codes, and guidelines for your field.
• Verify if your qualifications are recognized or if additional assessment is required.

2. Determine Registration Type

AHPRA offers various types of registration:

• General Registration: For fully qualified practitioners.
• Limited Registration: For practitioners requiring supervision (e.g., undergoing further training).
• Provisional Registration: For those completing supervised practice as a requirement.
• Non-Practicing Registration: For those not currently practicing but wish to remain registered.

---

3. Complete the English Language Requirements

Most professions require proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests include:

• IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 7.0 (with no band lower than 7.0).
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum overall score of 94.
• OET: B score in each component.
• PTE Academic: Minimum overall score of 65 (with no communicative skill below 65).

---

4. Apply for Qualification Assessment

Submit your educational qualifications for assessment:

• Provide certified copies of academic transcripts, degrees, and certificates.
• Include evidence of your curriculum or syllabus, if required.

---

5. Gather Required Documents

Prepare documents such as:

• Passport (certified copy).
• Proof of identity (birth certificate, etc.).
• CV/Resume.
• Evidence of professional practice (e.g., reference letters, work experience).
• Certificates of Good Standing from regulatory authorities in other countries.
• Police clearance certificates (from all countries where you have resided).

---

6. Submit an Application

• Create an account on the AHPRA website.
• Fill out the appropriate application form (available on the AHPRA website for each profession).
• Pay the application and registration fees.

---

7. Await Assessment Outcome

• AHPRA will assess your application and may request additional documents or clarification.
• If successful, you’ll receive your registration details.
• If further steps are required (e.g., bridging courses, supervised practice), AHPRA will provide instructions.

---

Special Notes for Nursing and Midwifery Applicants

For nurses and midwives:

1. Apply under the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
2. Complete the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) if your qualification is not considered equivalent to Australian standards. The OBA includes:
   • Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ) Test.
   • Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
3. Undertake a bridging program (if needed).

---

Additional Resources

• AHPRA website: www.ahpra.gov.au
• National Board pages: Specific requirements and resources for your profession.
• Immigration and Visa: Ensure you apply for the appropriate visa to work in Australia after registration.

---

Tips for Success

• Start early: The registration process can take months.
• Ensure all documents are certified and translated (if not in English).
• Maintain communication with AHPRA for updates on your application.

Would you like assistance with preparing an application or addressing specific concerns,contact Madame Ritha Academic Services.