The lure of higher pay in Australia is drawing New Zealand nurses across the Tasman, but a recruitment specialist warns that many are feeling professionally unsafe and unsupported. Since August, almost 5,000 New Zealand nurses have registered to work in Australia, with many taking up short-term contracts in rural areas where they can earn two or three times their New Zealand wages. However, the pay equity boost in New Zealand means that base rates for more experienced nurses are now equal to or higher than those in some Australian states.
According to Kate Nattrass, the managing director of Tonix Health Recruitment, the increasing aggression of Australia and the UK in poaching New Zealand nurses is making it difficult for the country to retain its healthcare professionals. She also highlighted the issue of overseas-trained nurses using New Zealand as a backdoor to enter Australia more easily. Nattrass said that while Tonix Recruitment is working hard to support nurses in obtaining New Zealand Nursing Council registration, some are using this as a stepping stone to gain entry to Australia.
Despite the challenges, Nattrass believes that New Zealand has a lot to offer overseas nurses, including a unique culture and lifestyle. Tonix Recruitment is conducting a recruitment drive in Singapore next month, with a focus on sourcing nurses from the Philippines, which has the highest number of registered nurses in the world.
In conclusion, while the allure of higher pay in Australia may be tempting, New Zealand nurses should carefully consider their options before heading across the Tasman, as the grass may not be as green as it seems.
