As of 2023, New South Wales (NSW) had approximately 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) registered nurses and midwives1. The average salary for registered nurses in NSW varies based on experience and role, with entry-level positions starting around $71,906 and increasing to approximately $88,083 for those with five years of experience2.
The nursing workforce in Australia is projected to face significant shortages, with an anticipated shortfall of approximately 85,000 nurses by 2025 and 123,000 by 20303, highlighting the need for strategic workforce planning and improved working conditions.
Nurse License requirements in NSW
In New South Wales, nurses must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Eligibility for registration requires holding an NMBA-approved qualification and meeting specific registration standards, including assessments of criminal history, English language proficiency, recent practice experience, and Professional Indemnity insurance.
NSW Nurse insurance requirements
Professional Indemnity insurance is required by law for all practising nurses in NSW to ensure coverage against civil liabilities arising from professional practice. While many employers provide Professional Indemnity coverage, nurses must verify that their employment arrangements meet the NMBA’s insurance requirements.
For independent nurses or those without employer-provided coverage, obtaining individual Professional Indemnity is essential.
What types of insurance do NSW nurses consider?
Professional Indemnity insurance
An unfortunate mistake in your care could disrupt your career and possibly drain your bank accounts. Professional Indemnity insurance can help you cover the costs of negligence claims, mistakes, and omissions in your care or advice.
Professional Indemnity policies can cover full-time or part-time nurses, those in private independent practice, and medical volunteers working at events or with community groups.
Public Liability insurance
Buying a Public Liability insurance policy is an easy choice for many nurses, considering how closely they work with patients in a variety of settings (e.g., in a client’s home or aged care facility). If your actions result in an accidental injury or property damage to a member of the public, this insurance may help you cover the costs of setting things right.
Cyber Liability insurance
If you collect and store patient information, consider the consequences if that data is lost or stolen. Cyber Liability insurance could help you cover unplanned expenses related to cyberattacks, data loss, and more.
Personal Accident & Illness insurance
Independent nurses may want to consider what might happen if they could not work due to an injury or serious illness, especially if they do not qualify for worker’s compensation. Personal Accident & Illness insurance could help you continue to pay the bills while you recover.
How much does nurse insurance cost in NSW?
In New South Wales, insurance for nurses costs an average of $79 per month* with BizCover.
However, insurance premiums for nurses vary based on factors such as the level of coverage, the nurse’s role, and the insurer. It’s essential for nurses to assess their specific professional needs and compare quotes from multiple insurers to determine the most appropriate and cost-effective cover for themselves and their business.
1. Statista, Number of registered nurses and midwives in Australia in 2023, by state or territory
2. Pulse, Registered Nurse Salary in Australia 2025
3. Universities Australia, Universities Australia’s submission to the Commonwealth Department of Health & Aged Care’s consultation paper: Developing the national nursing workforce strategy
*Customer Average Monthly Payment Report is based on 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024 and presented as a guide only. It may not reflect pricing for your particular business, as individual criteria will apply.
This information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be relied upon as advice. As with any insurance, cover will be subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions contained in the PDS or policy wording.
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