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Winter 2004

Ground-breaking research will see standards for nurse practitioners

The Australian Nursing Council (ANC) and Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) have launched a ground-breaking research project which will see the development of competency standards for nurse practitioners in Australia and New Zealand.

"This is the first time that research is being conducted to develop a common set of standards for the nurse practitioner across borders and is also the first time that Australia and New Zealand have collaborated to develop core standards," says Marilyn Gendek, ANC Chief Executive Officer.

According to Marilyn, the research represents a significant outcome of the ANC's and Nursing Council of New Zealand's cooperative approach to nursing regulation under Memorandum of Cooperation (2001).

"The nurse practitioner is a registered nurse who practices at an advanced level and is authorised to practice as a nurse practitioner," she says. "The role of the nurse practitioner is at varying stages throughout Australia and New Zealand but currently nurse practitioners have been established in New Zealand, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia."

Marion Clark, CEO of the Nursing Council of New Zealand says that Australia and New Zealand have been working together since 1998 to improve the regulation of nursing and that this research represents a natural progression from its already strong relationship.

"Australia and New Zealand have had a strong relationship for some years now which is highlighted by the countries signing of the Trans Tasman Mutual Recognition Agreement (1997) and ANC/NCNZ Memorandum of Cooperation (2001)," Marion said.

"With the development of national standards and guidelines for accreditation of courses for nurse practitioner in Australia and New Zealand, employers, the profession and public can be confident that these nurses are educated and working at a suitable and recognised standard of practice," Marion said.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Liz Hill, Australian Nursing Council (ANC) (02) 6257 7960 or on 0407 436 384.