The federal government has launched a $50.2 million scholarship program to upskill registered nurses and midwives to become nurse practitioners and endorsed midwives in primary care and aged care settings.

The Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Program will provide 1,850 postgraduate scholarships over four years and be managed by the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners (ACNP).

The program will aim to strengthen the health workforce in rural and remote communities by giving preference to applicants currently living, or working, in these areas. ACNP will soon set up an advisory group to ensure scholarships are awarded to areas of most need, including First Nations students.

“As a former nurse, I know the impact further study can have on enhancing leadership and clinical skills. This program will not only develop our nursing and midwifery workforce, but also see improved care for all Australians across the country,” Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney, said.

“We know that attracting and retaining nurses and midwives in primary and aged care has been a challenge – particularly in our regions. This program will go a long way to ensuring Australians can get the best quality care regardless of where they live.
“Nurse practitioners and midwives are so important – they have a unique connection to their community and increasing our support for them is key to a stronger, healthier community.”

As the peak body for nurse practitioners, ACNP said it was proud to lead the scholarship program to help further educate nurses and midwives towards advanced and autonomous roles. The program will strengthen the health workforce and help achieve objectives such as the Nurse Practitioner Workforce Plan.

“We know that nurses and midwives working in primary care improve access to health care, and health outcomes.  Supporting and enabling their development and full scope of practice will ensure more want to work in primary care, and it will also attract many more people into the workforce,” ACNP CEO Leanne Boase said.