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Mental Health Nurse

A Mental Health Nurse provides care to patients with mental health issues, working in various settings and collaborating with healthcare providers to administer treatments.

How do I become a mental health nurse

Get qualified to work as a mental health nurse with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Mental Health Nurse generally earns $1,800 per week ($93,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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The number of people working in this profession has grown strongly in recent years. There are currently 14,100 people employed as a Mental Health Nurse in Australia compared to 9,200 five years ago. Mental Health Nurses may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If a career as a Mental Health Nurse interests you, consider enrolling in an Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Mental Health). This course will give you the skills to conduct clinical assessments on mental health patients. You’ll choose electives to suit your career plans such as case management or recovery facilitation.

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Further reading

How to start a career in Mental Health

5th August 2021

What can you do with a Diploma of Mental Health?

13th January 2021

What can you do with a Diploma of Nursing?

2nd February 2021

Mental Health Nurse careers

A Mental Health Nurse provides care to patients dealing with mental health issues. You might work in a hospital, in a community care environment or in a facility designed especially for mental health care. Mental Health Nurses may deliver care according to health plans and administer medication if required. You’ll work closely with other health care providers to determine required treatments.

Mental Health Nurses should be good communicators and be able to listen to patient concerns. You’ll need to be patient and have strong observational skills. Mental Health Nurses must be able to work as part of a team and follow correct procedures at all times.