Enrolled Nurse Jobs in Australia
Healthcare Australia (HCA) supports enrolled nurses through every step of their career journey. Here, we explain how to become an enrolled nurse in Australia, what the job involves, how much you can earn and how we support enrolled nurses across metro, regional and remote areas.
What is an enrolled nurse?
Enrolled nurses (ENs) are an essential part of the care team. They work under the supervision of Registered Nurses to provide hands-on support for patients in a variety of settings.
Core duties include monitoring vital signs, helping with hygiene and mobility, supporting patient comfort, managing documentation and administering medications. ENs help ensure safe, effective care in hospitals, aged care homes, community clinics and rehab centres.
Working as an EN means every day is different. With HCA, you can choose placements that fit your schedule and goals, from short-term contracts to longer-term roles across city and country locations.
How to become an enrolled nurse
Starting your career as an enrolled nurse is a practical and rewarding way to join Australia’s healthcare workforce. Here are some typical enrolled nurse requirements.
Step 1: Complete a Diploma of Nursing
To qualify, you’ll need to complete the Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) through a TAFE or approved Registered Training Organisation (RTO). The course typically runs for 18 to 24 months full-time and includes both classroom learning and practical clinical placements.
Step 2: Register with AHPRA
Once you’ve completed your diploma, registering with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as an enrolled nurse is the next step.
You’ll need to show:
- Evidence of course completion
- English language proficiency (IELTS or OET)
- Identity documents and a criminal history check
Step 3: Find work with Healthcare Australia
Once you’re qualified and registered, you can apply for roles with HCA. We offer access to EN positions in hospitals, aged care, community health and more. Our team supports you through onboarding and connects you with roles that match your experience, location preferences and lifestyle.
The typical salary of an enrolled nurse in Australia is $67,959 per year.
Here’s a rough guide by state:
- TAS: $68,000 – $81,000
- QLD: $71,234 – $82,599
- SA: $62,642 – $71,835
- NT: $67,000 – $77,000
- VIC: $54,672 – $57,517
- NSW: $62,914 – $70,454
The enrolled nurse wage is typically higher for evening, weekend and public holiday shifts. Rural and regional placements may also offer additional allowances. It’s also important to note that these salary ranges are only rough estimates. Other factors that influence pay include years of experience and whether you work in the public or private sector.
Working with HCA means more competitive wages and a range of added benefits:
- Higher agency pay rates
- Salary packaging and tax-effective benefits
- Paid CPD training and ongoing development
- Free uniforms and travel subsidies
- Flexible rosters to suit your lifestyle
Visa information for overseas enrolled nurses
If you’re trained outside Australia, there are several visa options that may allow you to work as an EN here:
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462) —For nurses aged 18–35 from eligible countries.
- TSS 482 Visa — Employer-sponsored, ideal for nurses with work experience.
- Skilled Migration (GSM, ENS) — This is for nurses looking for permanent roles in Australia, depending on eligibility for the skills list.
Registration for overseas ENs
To practise, your qualifications need to be assessed through the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) and AHPRA. Depending on your training country, you may need to complete additional studies or a bridging course as part of your enrolled nurse requirements.
How we help international ENs
For international enrolled nurses, HCA provides:
- Step-by-step visa guidance
- Help with paperwork and registration
- Job matching across all states and territories
- Relocation tips and accommodation advice
- Ongoing onboarding and support
Resume and cover letter tips for enrolled nurses
A strong application helps you stand out from other candidates. Here’s how to make yours count.
What to include in your enrolled nurse cover letter
Your cover letter should be short, clear and tailored to the role. Mention:
- Your clinical placement or work experience
- Why you’re applying for the role
- Your availability and preferred location
- An example of your care skills, such as teamwork or compassion in action
What to include in your enrolled nurse resume
- Career summary
- Completed qualifications (Diploma of Nursing)
- Clinical placements or past roles
- Practical skills
- AHPRA registration number
- Any extra training or certifications
- Locations or shift types you’re open to
We can help fine-tune your application to make it employer-ready. Just speak to your HCA consultant.
Becoming a registered nurse after working as an EN
For those interested, you can build on your EN qualification to become a registered nurse. Many nurses follow this path by enrolling in a Bachelor of Nursing and applying for credit based on their diploma and work experience.
If you’re wondering how to become a registered nurse from an enrolled nurse position, our team can guide you through your options and help you keep working while you study.
We offer:
- National job access across the public and private sectors
- Flexible shifts and contract types
- Expert support with applications, registration and onboarding
- Travel and relocation options
- A team that stays in touch and listens to your goals
Get started with HCA today
Now that you know how to become an enrolled nurse, it’s time to take the next step. Sign up with HCA, and we’ll help you find a job role that suits your skills, lifestyle and ambitions. Whether you’re looking for your first job, a flexible new opportunity or a path towards becoming an RN, we’re ready to help you make it happen.
