Graduate Registered Nurse Program

Graduate Nurse Program at Yarrawonga Health

Yarrawonga Health offers first-year Registered Nurses a unique and enriching Graduate Nurse Program designed to build clinical knowledge, enhance confidence and dexterity, and support the development of professional resilience. Our goal is to empower graduates to practice autonomously, respond effectively to clinical challenges, and deliver safe, timely, and professional care across a variety of healthcare settings.

In partnership with Goulburn Valley Health (GVH) in Shepparton, our program provides graduates with the opportunity to broaden their skills and experience the diverse healthcare needs of both regional and rural communities.

Yarrawonga Health is also proud to participate in the Central Hume Graduate Nurse Program (CHGNP) — a collaborative initiative with Benalla Health, Northeast Health Wangaratta, Mansfield District Hospital, Tallangatta Health, and Cooinda Village.

The CHGNP supports early career nurses through a structured professional development program that includes regular study days, shared learning experiences, and group-based networking opportunities, all aimed at easing the transition into the nursing workforce and promoting career-long learning.

What our Graduate Nurses say…

For further information please contact:

Education Coordinator / Clinical Support Nurse
Ph: 03 5743 8166

Applications can be sent to:

Education Coordinator / Clinical Support Nurse

33 Piper Street
Yarrawonga VIC 3730
YHEducation@yh.org.au

Frequently Asked Questions – Graduate Nurse Program

How do I apply?

Graduate Nurse Program applications follow a two-step process:

  1. Apply directly to each health service you are interested in.

  2. Register via the Allocation & Placement Service (APS) at gnmp.pmcv.com.au.

The 2025 Graduate Handbook and full application requirements can also be found on the APS website.
Application information specific to Yarrawonga Health will be published here once applications open.


When do applications open?

Applications for the 2025 Yarrawonga Health Graduate Nurse Program open Monday 2 June 2025 and close Wednesday 2 July 2025.


When and where are interviews held?

Interviews will be conducted both online and face-to-face. Dates and details will be confirmed after the application period closes.


Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility criteria can be found in the 2025 Candidate Handbook available at gnmp.pmcv.com.au.


When does the graduate year commence?

Our Graduate Program commences in February 2025, with flexible intake options available throughout the year.


Program Overview

Our Registered Nurse Graduate Program is designed to help consolidate your foundational clinical skills through rotations across:

  • Acute Services

  • Aged Care

  • Community Nursing


Am I employed part-time?

Yes. Graduates are employed at 64 hours per fortnight (0.8 FTE), with flexibility to reduce to 48 hours per fortnight (0.6 FTE) if needed. A contract will be provided prior to commencement.


What shifts will I work?

Yarrawonga Health operates 24/7. Expect to work across all shifts including weekdays, weekends, and public holidays.

Typical shift times include:

  • Morning (AM): 07:00 – 15:30

  • Afternoon (PM): 13:00 – 21:30

  • Night (ND): 21:00 – 07:30


Are there study days?

Yes. All graduate Registered Nurses will attend designated study days focused on professional development.


What support does Yarrawonga Health provide during the Graduate Program?

You’ll be supported by a strong network throughout your year, including:

  • Clinical Support Nurses for hands-on guidance

  • Clinical Education Team for structured study and development

  • Nurse Unit Managers (NUMs), ANUMs, CNSs, RNs, ENs and our broader multidisciplinary team

  • Up to two weeks of supernumerary shifts

  • Graduate Debriefing Sessions

  • Graduate Study Days

  • Career Pathway Planning

  • Emotional and wellbeing support as needed

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • EziWay Salary Packaging


What opportunities are available after the Graduate Program?

Many graduates go on to secure employment within Yarrawonga Health. We recommend discussing ongoing opportunities with your manager or education team toward the end of your graduate year.


Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Yarrawonga Health supports further education, including:

  • First Line Emergency Care (FLEC)

  • Triage Workshops

  • Clinical Supervision (Introductory Training)

  • Comprehensive Care of the Older Person

  • Peri-Operative Nursing

  • Gerontology

  • Other studies identified by the graduate


What is the selection criteria?

Your application must include:

  • Letter of application

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV), including placement history

  • Two clinical referees (e.g. NUM, CNC, CNE, Clinical Facilitator, Clinical Support Nurse) with workplace email addresses

  • Most recent academic transcript (with results legend)

  • Passport-sized colour photograph

  • Two most recent Acute clinical placement reports, including both interim and final reports (may include second or third-year placements)

If successful, you will be required to provide:

  • Current Police Check

  • Working with Children’s Check

  • Immunisation record

  • Certified Academic Transcript (with results legend)

  • NDIS Worker Screening Check


Who can I contact for more information?

For all Graduate Nurse Program enquiries, please contact:
Education Coordinator / Clinical Support Nurse
📧 YHEducation@yh.org.au