Working as an agency nurse in Australia offers flexibility, variety, and exciting opportunities to grow professionally. But with that freedom comes responsibility. Agency nurses are expected to step into new environments and deliver safe, competent care from the very first shift. To ensure this, there are several key certifications and checks that every agency nurse must maintain.
The most important requirement is registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Without this, nurses cannot legally practice in Australia. Registration verifies your qualifications and ensures that you are recognised under national standards. Maintaining this registration is a critical part of being an agency nurse, as it demonstrates both your competency and your commitment to professional standards.
In addition to registration, agency nurses are expected to have up-to-date police checks. Healthcare facilities have a duty of care to protect vulnerable patients, and background checks are an essential safeguard. Depending on where you work, you may also be required to hold a current Working With Children Check, particularly if you’re employed in facilities that care for younger patients.
Training in CPR and first aid is another non-negotiable requirement. Emergencies can arise at any time, and agency nurses must be equipped to respond quickly and effectively. Similarly, manual handling training and infection control certification are vital for both patient and staff safety. These courses ensure that you can provide care safely, minimise the risk of injury, and prevent the spread of infection in any environment.
Immunisation records are also increasingly important. Many facilities require proof of up-to-date vaccinations, including influenza and COVID-19, before allowing nurses to work on-site. These measures are designed to protect both staff and patients, particularly in aged care settings where residents may be highly vulnerable.
For new agency nurses, staying on top of these certifications can feel overwhelming, but the process doesn’t have to be complicated. At Crewe Sharp, we support our nurses through compliance, helping ensure that all checks and certifications are up to date. This not only makes placements smoother but also gives nurses peace of mind that they are fully prepared for every shift.
Ultimately, the certifications required of agency nurses are about more than meeting administrative requirements—they are about ensuring safe, high-quality care for patients. By maintaining these essentials, agency nurses can step confidently into any healthcare environment, knowing they are equipped to deliver the care that’s expected of them.
If you’re considering agency nursing and want guidance on certifications and compliance, Crewe Sharp is here to help. Visit crewesharp.com.au or call 1300 328 004 to speak with one of our team members about getting started.