Training the nurses of the future

The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) has highlighted the important role Wyong TAFE is playing in addressing a skills shortage on the Central Coast and help future-proof the local nursing workforce.

The national peak body for nurses said there was never a more important time to invest in the future of nursing.

Research by Health Workforce Australia found that due to an ageing workforce and growing population, there could be a national shortfall of 100,000 nurses by 2025, APNA said.

CEO Ken Griffith said Wyong TAFE’s role in training the next generation was a “positive sign for Australia’s health”.

“It’s essential that nurses entering the health system are trained well and can have the opportunity to develop their skills where we need them most, particularly in primary health care and in rural and remote settings,” he said.

“We know that nursing is a fulfilling career.

“The role that Enrolled Nurses play in the health care system is vital and this will only grow over the coming years.”

The NSW Government is investing $3M over the next three years to upgrade nurse training facilities at TAFE NSW campuses across the state.

Benjamin O’Moore, 38, is one of many Wyong students being armed with the practical skills and work experience to make a running start into his nursing career.

He is studying a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance and works as a Health Care Assistant at Gosford Hospital.

One of a growing number of Australian men entering nursing, he plans to apply to continue with a Diploma of Nursing later this year.

“Being a mature-aged student has been an advantage, helping with the communication and negotiating skills that are integral to caring for patients, especially those with cognitive impairments,” he said.

“I strive to be the nurse that I would want to look after me, and TAFE NSW drives the importance of dignity of patients and caring for humans in a vulnerable state.

“Nursing is hard work, but it’s so satisfying and rewarding.

“Beyond the Diploma, I hope to continue with a Bachelor of Nursing and get into executive administration so I can effect real change for nurses.”

The APNA says data from Economy ID reveals the health care and social assistance workforce is the largest industry by employment in the Central Coast, with the workforce set to grow by nearly 16 per cent in the five years to 2026.

TAFE NSW Nursing Lead Dr Zach Byfield said the institution worked closely with health providers and organisations such as APRA to help ensure it was keeping pace with workforce needs.

“We meet regularly with all our industry partners to come up with new and innovative ways to keep learners in communities and create a constant pipeline of new nurses,” he said.

“Nurses are an indispensable part of the healthcare system, as was again highlighted during the pandemic and TAFE NSW is committed to continue training the nursing workforce of the future.”