Employment chat with...

Get to know Esther Undunty, International Consultant

Esther works for Healthcare Australia.

Healthcare Australia connects healthcare professionals, organisations, and people to provide end-to-end healthcare solutions as needed.

What’s the coolest thing about working here?

If you're a Kiwi nurse thinking about crossing the ditch, one of the coolest things about working in Australia is the incredible variety of opportunities both professionally and culturally. You’ll find roles in everything from bustling metro hospitals to remote outback clinics, aged care, mental health, and even community-based nursing. The healthcare system is well-resourced, and there's a strong focus on work-life balance, with flexible rosters and generous leave. But what really stands out is the chance to experience a culture that’s “same-same but different”. Australia and New Zealand share a lot values, humour, and a laid-back vibe but working here gives you a fresh perspective. You’ll encounter a broader mix of cultures, including a strong Indigenous presence and a diverse migrant population, which adds depth to your nursing practice and cultural competency.

Plus, the pay is often higher, the weather’s warmer, and the beaches aren’t too bad either!

What types of roles are you currently offering or looking to fill?

If you're a nurse from New Zealand thinking about making the move, Healthcare Australia (HCA) has a huge variety of roles that could be just what you're looking for. Whether you're after a short-term adventure or a long-term career shift, HCA offers:

Acute Medical & Surgical Nursing  – High demand across public and private hospitals, especially in metro and regional areas.
Mental Health Nursing  – Opportunities for those with psych assessment and emergency department experience.
Aged Care & Community Nursing  – Perfect for nurses passionate about continuity of care and working closely with clients.
Rural & Remote Contracts  – For the adventurous, HCA offers surge deployments and travel nursing gigs in some of Australia’s most unique and rewarding locations. 
Midwifery & Maternity Care  – Especially in regional centres and growing urban hubs.
Clinical Care Management  – For experienced nurses ready to step into leadership roles, with relocation support and career progression pathways.

What makes HCA especially appealing for Kiwis is the flexibility—you can choose casual shifts, locum contracts, or permanent placements. Plus, they offer support with AHPRA registration, visa guidance, and even help you connect with other travelling nurses, making the transition smoother and more social.

Whether you're chasing sunshine, career growth, or a bit of both, HCA helps you turn your Aussie dream into a reality—with great pay, lifestyle perks, and a supportive team behind you.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to students wanting to work in your industry?

If you're a student studying nursing in New Zealand and thinking about heading to Australia, the best advice is: be open to stepping outside your comfort zone and say yes to new experiences.

Australia’s healthcare system is similar in many ways to New Zealand’s, but it also offers a broader scope of practice, more diverse patient populations, and opportunities to work in everything from high-tech city hospitals to remote Indigenous communities. That means you’ll grow fast both professionally and personally.

Start preparing now by:

Getting familiar with AHPRA registration requirements.
Building your clinical confidence and get post graduate experience—ask questions, take initiative, and make the most of your placements.
Networking—connect with Healthcare Australia, attend virtual info sessions, and talk to other Kiwi nurses who’ve made the move.

And remember, moving to Australia isn’t just about work—it’s about lifestyle. You’ll gain independence, meet new people, and experience a culture that’s “same-same but different” in the best way.

What can students do now to make themselves stand out when applying for jobs like yours?

To stand out when applying for nursing roles with Healthcare Australia, show that you’re adaptable, enthusiastic, and ready for a challenge. Be open to working in different settings whether it’s a busy city hospital or a rural community and highlight your soft skills like communication, flexibility, teamwork, and cultural awareness.
Start connecting with Healthcare Australia early, attend info sessions, and let your passion for nursing and adventure shine through. Showing that you’re proactive and genuinely excited about working in Australia can make all the difference.