New Funding Announced for Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placement Program

Media Statement: 30 January 2025

The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) welcomes the Albanese Government's continued investment in the Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placement Program (ACNCPP) with the announcement of an extra $5.1m in funding.

This will allow APNA to support 1,980 undergraduate nursing students in experiencing high-quality placements in aged care settings over the next two and a half years.

They will join over 1,100 Bachelor of Nursing students who have already completed placements with the program's support since its launch in 2023.

The ACNCPP gives student nurses the opportunity to learn how rewarding a career in aged care can be, allowing them to make an informed choice about which career path to follow after graduation.

By increasing the number of graduates entering the sector, the program also helps futureproof the aged care nursing workforce by addressing predicted shortfalls.

Feedback from students who have participated in just one aged care placement indicated they are 63% more likely to consider a career in aged care.

‘Students who have taken part in the program tell us how it changed their perception of nursing in aged care and see it as a valuable career opportunity’ says APNA’s President, Karen Booth.

‘They are given hands-on opportunities to develop their clinical skills, as well as engage with residents and contribute to their wellbeing, something they tell us is both educational and rewarding.’

‘Students are also fully supported by APNA Clinical Nurse Facilitators to ensure they have a high quality, engaging experience as well as reaching their learning outcomes and assessments.’ says Karen.

‘As a result, almost three quarters of students responded yes when asked if they had a positive experience on their placement.’

For the first time, placements will also be available for Diploma of Nursing students studying to become enrolled nurses.

“Enrolled nurses play a vital role in aged care, and being able to give them the opportunity to complete placements with APNA will go a long way to supporting the workforce.’

Workplaces hosting students on placements are also fully supported from start to finish with administrative, clinical and education support, ensuring they and their staff can focus on caring for their residents.

Both students and workplaces will continue to be able to access APNA’s Aged Care Knowledge Hub for added support during placements.

If you work in aged care and are interested in finding out more about hosting students or if you work in education and would like to learn more about how APNA can arrange placements for your students, please email placements@apna.asn.au.

About the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA)

APNA represents over 98,000 primary health care nurses in Australia working outside of hospitals, including those employed in general practice, schools, aged care facilities, correctional facilities and wider community settings.