30 May 2025

We are excited to have welcomed 102 early career registered nurses to Austin Health into our General and Perioperative Graduate Nurse Programs!

Over the next two weeks they will complete a comprehensive orientation program before starting in various clinical areas in early June. 

Jane Warneke, Early Career Nurse Program Coordinator, says the top priority is ensuring our graduate nurses feel genuinely welcome and supported from day one.

“We are committed to equipping them with the tools, strategies, and confidence to deliver exceptional care to our patients and consumers," says Jane.

“As emerging professionals, graduate nurses are the future of Austin Health’s nursing workforce and play a vital role in shaping compassionate, high-quality healthcare.”

Nonie Rickard, Acting Chief Nursing Officer, says she's delighted to welcome the 2025 cohort.

“We are confident they will be supported by our nursing and multidisciplinary teams to ensure they enjoy fulfilling and successful professional careers at Austin Health," says Nonie.

CEO Jodie Geissler also shared her excitement at the beginning of this new chapter.

“I am thrilled to welcome our graduate nurses as they begin their careers," says Jodie. 

"I’m excited for them, and all the joys that will unfold across their nursing careers – including the deep satisfaction of caring for patients, all the achievements and successes they will have, growth and experiences, and of course friendships that will be formed. We wish them well for the coming months."

Please join us in giving a warm welcome to our new early career nurses!