Sexual and Reproductive Health Nurse Robyn Holmes is among hundreds of registered nurses on the journey to becoming a nurse practitioner thanks to a Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship. 

“It has eased financial pressures, allowing me to focus on both my education and clinical practice,” she tells the ANMJ. 

“The advanced clinical knowledge and leadership skills I’m gaining are directly enhancing my ability to provide evidence-based care and improve patient outcomes.” 

Funded by the Albanese Labor Government and administered by the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners (ACNP), the program is providing 1,850 postgraduate scholarships over four years from 2023-24 across the country, helping to grow the number of NPs and endorsed midwives working in primary care and aged care. 

Robyn developed a strong interest in sexual and reproductive health early on in her nursing career. 

At Peninsula Health’s nurse-led Women’s Health Clinic, working alongside nurse practitioner Cathy Halmarick, who was named Nurse of the Year at HESTA’s 2024 Australian Nursing and Midwifery Awards, Robyn provides access to high-quality women’s healthcare. This includes contraceptive advice, STI management, pregnancy options counselling, and various women’s health conditions. 

Securing financial assistance through the Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship enabled Robyn to pursue a Master of Advanced Nursing Studies at Monash University, specialising in women’s sexual and reproductive health. She believes becoming an NP will allow her to work to her full scope of practice, including being able to prescribe medicines, and improve access and continuity of care for women.  

“I hope to become an endorsed nurse practitioner specialising in sexual and reproductive health next year,” the ANMF (Vic Branch) member says. 

“This will enable me to take on an expanded role in advanced patient care, advocacy, and health promotion, particularly in improving access to care. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and excited about the impact I can make in the future.” 

Peninsula Health’s nurse-led Women’s Health Clinic was established in 2017, with Robyn coming on board a year later. 

Her advice to nurses and midwives considering studying to become an NP or endorsed midwife is – believe in yourself and your ability to grow into the advanced role. 

“It’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life,” she admits. 

“There will be challenges along the way, but each step brings you closer to making a real difference in patient care. Stay committed, seek support where needed, and remember that impact you’ll have as a nurse practitioner is well worth the effort.” 

Find out more information about the Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarships program here