The South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD) has this week welcomed the NSW government’s announcement that the district is the recipient of 10 scholarship positions to study nursing and start a career with NSW Health.
District director of nursing and midwifery, SESLHD, Kim Olesen, says the scholarships are aimed at school-leavers wanting to start nursing careers or people seeking an exciting career change.
“The NSW government Enrolled Nurse Scholarships are a great opportunity for anyone in the community, young or old, considering a career in nursing,” Ms Olesen said.
“If you’re looking for a rewarding job where you can give back to your community, don’t hesitate – apply for a nursing scholarship. Nursing is an exciting career with so much opportunity.”
Five of the SESLHD scholarships on offer are for general nursing, and five are for mental health nursing.
“The mental health scholarships are targeted for Aboriginal people as part of the district’s aim to continue to build our Aboriginal nursing and midwifery workforce,” Ms Olesen said.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard says more than $1.5 million will be spent by the NSW government on the 2019 Enrolled Nurse Scholarship program, with applications open as of Monday this week.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in pursuing a rewarding career as a nurse at one of our public health facilities or hospitals,” Mr Hazzard said.
“Not only does the scholarship include course fees for a Diploma of Nursing but there is a guaranteed job offer at the end of it.
“Enrolled Nurses are a valued part of the health care team, caring for people when they are feeling most vulnerable, across a variety of clinical settings including acute medical and surgical units, operating theatres and mental health.”
In 2018/19, the NSW government is boosting frontline clinicians across the state, with an additional 950 nurses and midwives. This includes investing an extra $8.1 million for 80 new specialised nursing midwifery and support positions.
To be eligible you must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident living in NSW.
Aboriginal people are particularly encouraged to apply for the scholarships, in line with a commitment to grow the Aboriginal workforce across NSW and improve local health outcomes.
The scholarships run in partnership with TAFE NSW and the NSW Health Registered Training Organisation.
Applications close February 19.