Western District Health Service EN Graduate Program


2026 EN Graduate Nurse Program

Program overview

WDHS offers graduates the opportunity to work in a rural setting where the breadth and diversity of services and case-mix provide a rich learning environment. For many, this is a time during which important lessons are learned and lifelong friendships are formed.

The 2026 Mid-Year Graduate Enrolled Nurse Program will commence on Monday 3 August 2026.

The Graduate Nurse Program is designed to support the Graduate Nurse transition from student to Enrolled Nurse, and it is recognised by WDHS as an opportunity to:

  • Develop clinical competence, confidence and skills while being supported by clinical educators, preceptors and transition to practice team.
  • Support the development of professionalism and collaborative practice
  • Create an environment that allows reflective practice and application of lifelong learning strategies.
  • Facilitate the advancement to independent practitioner.

Program Support

During the program you will receive support from:

  • Graduate Nurse Coordinator
  • Clinical Nurse Educators (PDN’s)
  • 4-week preceptorship program
  • Clinical and non-clinical staff
  • Structured Orientation week (4 days)
  • Supernumerary shifts
  • Up to five (5) paid study days
  • Access to E-Learning programs
  • Internal in-service programs
  • Formal & Informal feedback
  • Pathways to Bachelor of Nursing through CQU partnerships


How to Apply for the EN Graduate Program

Complete the WDHS application form online

Step 1:

Apply directly to WDHS: Read the ‘Preparing Your Application’ and ‘Key Criteria’ below. Then Complete the WDHS online application.

Step 2: Interview with WDHS: Shortlisted candidates will receive an email from the WDHS Graduate Nurse Coordinator inviting them to attend a face-to-face interview week commencing 8 June 2026.

Step 3: Application outcome: Successful candidates will be contacted.

Preparing Your Application

The following documents are required to complete your application.

Curriculum Vitae

  • Cover letter
  • Up-to-date resume/CV (maximum of 3 pages and include referees)
  • Most recent academic transcript/record (does not need to be certified)
  • Details of two (2) clinical referees. We recommend you check with your referees to ensure they are happy to provide you with a reference.

Clinical Appraisals

Include your three (3) most recent Clinical Appraisals. Attach summary pages of Formative & Summary Appraisals only and a feedback page containing comments. Approximately 3-5 pages are sufficient. These documents do not need to be certified.

Attend interviews

Shortlisted candidates will receive an email from the WDHS Graduate Nurse Coordinator inviting them to attend a face-to-face interview week commencing 8 June 2026.

Key criteria

Sound level of knowledge and skill relating to nursing care and the clinical environment appropriate to the position.

Commitment to ongoing learning and the ability to accept constructive feedback and appropriate direction.

Ability to set goals and objective and meet deadlines as required.

Commitment to working as part of a team and the ability to work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team.

Commitment to completing all requirements of the graduate nurse program continuing professional development.

Knowledge of contemporary nursing issues, trends and research.

Commitment to quality assurance and quality improvement activities.


Contact

Jessica Barry
Graduate Nurse Coordinator
jessica.barry@wdhs.net

Come work with us!

Last updated: May 27th 2025

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