Free mentoring program helps nurses move into general practice
Nurses new to general practice and other primary health care settings can now apply for the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association's (APNA) Transition to Practice Program, fully funded by the Australian Government.
Moving from a hospital ward or university into general practice brings a different pace, different patient needs and a different way of working. APNA's Transition to Practice Program (TPP) supports nurses making that move to build their skills, confidence and professional connections.
The program is fully funded through the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, so there is no cost to participate. Applications are now open.
Six months of online support builds confidence in primary health care
TPP is a 6-month program delivered entirely online, so nurses can take part from anywhere in Australia while working in their practice.
Participants receive:
access to exclusive educational tools and resources
mentoring from an experienced primary health care nurse
small group learning activities that build a peer support network lasting beyond the program.
Recent graduates and experienced nurses new to primary care can apply
TPP is open to nurses currently employed in primary health care who:
graduated within the past 2 years, or
are experienced nurses new to working in primary health care.
Practices that have recently welcomed a new nurse to their team are encouraged to share the program with them.
Experienced practice nurses can become paid mentors
APNA is seeking experienced primary health care nurses to mentor the next cohort. Mentors are paid for their time, and no previous mentoring experience is needed – APNA's program team provides tools, resources and support throughout.
To apply, mentors must:
hold current registration as a registered nurse or nurse practitioner
have at least 4 years of primary health care nursing experience
have worked in primary health care within the past 2 years
commit to the program for its full duration.
APNA also looks for broad primary health care knowledge, strong communication and leadership skills, and an understanding of effective mentoring relationships. Previous mentoring experience, rural and remote nursing experience, and experience across several primary health care settings are desirable.
Mentors from previous intakes are welcome to return without reapplying.
Find out more
Nurses and practices can explore the program and check eligibility online.
Check eligibility, apply and hear from past participants at APNA's Transition to Practice Program page.
Contact the APNA team at [email protected] or 1300 303 184.
Visit our Education Events page for similar professional development opportunities as they get posted to our website regularly.