Meet Claire, an Oncology Nurse from Donegal, Ireland, who leaped to work in Australia with Healthcare Australia (HCA). From her initial aspirations to explore to her experiences as a travel nurse across multiple states, Claire’s story is both inspiring and practical for anyone considering making the move.
Here, she shares her motivations, challenges, and unforgettable moments working as a travel nurse in Australia, as well as advice for anyone following in her footsteps.
Why Australia?
For Claire, the decision to move was driven by her love of travel and adventure.
“I’ve always wanted to explore the world,” she reflects. “One of my favourite sayings is, ‘The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.’”
After earning her nursing degree from Glasgow University, she gained experience in London at King’s College Hospital. With two years of expertise under her belt, she felt ready to book a one-way ticket to Australia.
“I didn’t overthink it,” Claire shares. “Once a friend recommended HCA to me, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue.”
Her path to Australia included a stop in Vietnam, where she immersed herself in a rich cultural experience before arriving in Brisbane, ready to take her first shift just two weeks later.
Preparing for the Move
Moving countries is no small feat, but Claire credits HCA and her preparation for making the process smooth.
“HCA supported me from the beginning,” she says. “My consultant helped with my AHPRA registration, which took about six months, so getting started early is crucial.”
Thanks to thorough preparation, Claire was job-ready as soon as she landed in Australia.
Life as a Travel Nurse in Australia
Claire has worked across several states during her time in Australia, including the Sunshine Coast, Melbourne, and Darwin.
“I loved the flexibility to work in different locations and gain a wide variety of experiences,” she says. “While working in Darwin, I got the unique opportunity to connect with the Aboriginal community and contribute to their healthcare services, which was incredibly rewarding.”
Not every moment is without its challenges, though. Claire notes that quiet periods, such as the Christmas season, can be slower for travel nurses. “My advice is to work hard during the busier winter months and take time off to explore and relax when things quieten down. There are so many beautiful places to discover in Australia!”
Being a travel nurse also offers endless opportunities to meet new people, both on the wards and in the wider community. For Claire, these connections added immense value to her experience.
Memorable Work Placements
During her nearly four years in Australia, Claire has developed a broad skill set through various roles.
She fondly reflects on her time in the Paediatric Unit at Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital and the Emergency Department on the Sunshine Coast. She also spent time with 13 Health, a phone-based health service, supporting callers with a wide range of queries.
“I’ve spoken to anxious mums worried about their babies and helped individuals struggling with their mental health,” Claire explains. “This role was intense at times, but gave me invaluable experience in a totally different environment.”
One of her most touching memories involved caring for a six-day-old baby with respiratory issues, the same week she nursed a 100-year-old woman. “Experiencing both the beginning and near end of life in such a short time was incredibly touching. It highlighted the breadth of what nursing offers.”
What Makes Australia Special?
For Claire, the sunny weather, excellent coffee, and laid-back attitude of Australians are major highlights.
“The lifestyle here is truly something to enjoy,” she says. “The sunny climate combined with a more relaxed approach to life creates a fantastic work-life balance.”
Tips for Aspiring Travel Nurses
Reflecting on her time as a travel nurse, Claire offers this practical advice for nurses considering making the move to Australia with HCA.
- Start Early with AHPRA: The registration process can take time, so start as soon as possible to ensure you’re ready to work when you arrive.
- Be Honest About Your Experience: “When I worked in an ICU, I wasn’t familiar with some of the equipment, so I spoke up and asked for assistance. Always prioritise safety, even if it means admitting you need help.”
- Stay Open and Flexible: Challenges like shift cancellations or unfamiliar tasks can arise. Keeping an open mind and adapting is part of the experience.
- Seize the Opportunity: “You won’t know if a new role or location is for you until you try. Never let fear stop you from taking the leap!”
Heading Back to Familiar Shores
After years of adventure, Claire is preparing to return to Ireland to reunite with her family and begin a role in oncology in England.
“I’ve met so many incredible people and worked in such varied settings here,” she says. “These experiences have made me a better nurse, and I’ll always be grateful for my time in Australia.”
Final Thoughts
Claire’s story is a testament to the opportunities and personal growth travel nursing offers. From connecting with new cultures to expanding her professional expertise, Claire’s Australian nursing experience has been life-changing.
If you’re a nurse considering the leap to working abroad, Claire’s advice is clear–be open, prepare thoroughly, and never miss the chance to turn ambition into action.
Interested in exploring nursing opportunities with HCA? Contact us to start your travel nursing adventure today.
