A nurse from Brisbane has garnered attention for her move to the corporate sector, revealing that she now earns a base salary of $150,000. This shift came after she left her role as an intensive care nurse, a decision influenced by the challenges posed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Traditionally, discussing salaries in Australia has been considered sensitive, but an increasing number of Australians are now openly sharing their earnings online.
In an interview with the job app Getahead, the nurse explained her transition from bedside care to a corporate position. She mentioned that her current salary can vary based on factors including her role and the specific year, generally starting at $150,000 and potentially exceeding that amount.
In contrast, data from SEEK indicates that the average annual salary for a registered nurse in Australia ranges from $85,000 to $95,000. Becoming a registered nurse typically requires three years of full-time study, along with registration through the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
The nurse indicated that her decision to step away from direct patient care was driven by burnout, prompting her to pursue opportunities outside of the hospital environment. She secured a position with a dialysis company, first as a clinical sales specialist overseeing Queensland and South Australia, and later transitioning to a hybrid role involving both education and sales.
Expressing enthusiasm for her new career path, she conveyed her love for this role while also acknowledging her passion for nursing. Her experience has resonated with many Australians, who praised her for exploring a different career trajectory. Comments on social media reflected admiration for her success and highlighted the diverse opportunities available to nurses.
Critics have noted that her salary exceeds the average earnings for registered nurses, calling attention to the financial disparities within the industry. The nurse’s message to her peers is clear: for those feeling fatigued or unfulfilled in their nursing roles, exploring alternative paths might be a beneficial move. She encouraged fellow nurses to seek out careers that ignite their passion and excitement for work, reinforcing the importance of job satisfaction in maintaining professional fulfilment.
