5min read
A nursing career can begin in one place and unfold across regions, states, and even countries. Dive into what travel nursing contracts in Victoria look like, through the eyes of RN Laurice, and her story of finding balance, growth and community.
Behind every nursing career is a journey shaped by purpose, possibility, and dedication. For Laurice, it has always been about more than clinical skills, but about connection.
A Registered Nurse (RN) of nine years, Laurice began her career in the Philippines before continuing to practice in New Zealand and now Australia. Over the years, she has worked across a variety of settings such as rehabilitation and aged care, building a wealth of experience that has allowed her to thrive as a travel nurse.
“I was drawn to nursing because of the meaningful human connection it offers,” she shares. “I’ve always valued being in a profession where clinical skills and compassion go hand in hand. I naturally gravitated toward acute medical and rehabilitation because I enjoy the fast-paced nature of acute care and the continuity and progress you see in rehab.”
Hear more about RN Laurice’s story with travel contracts in Victoria, Australia below.
Opportunities for Personal and Professional Growth as an RN
Travel nursing is more than just contracts for Laurice, but the entire journey. This year, Laurice is personally focusing on making the most of each placement.
“For me, travel nursing isn’t just about work – it’s about growth, experiences, and the people you meet in each location,” says Laurice. “Personally, I’m really enjoying what I’m doing right now and feel grateful for the opportunities travel nursing has given me.”
Exposure to different hospital systems across Victoria as a travel nurse can also strengthen clinical judgement and resilience, particularly within acute and rehabilitation environments. It can teach you how to stand on your own two feet, anywhere.
“As a travel nurse, I’ve become more independent and adaptable. Working in different teams and settings has really boosted my confidence and ability to step in and contribute wherever I go.”
Why Travel Nursing in Australia?
Travel nursing is a rapidly growing career pathway in Australia for nurses and midwives. It provides opportunities to:
- Take on short-term contracts tailored to lifestyle and personal goals
- Strengthen skills in diverse clinical environments and facilities
- Earn competitive agency nursing and midwifery rates
- Explore new regions of Australia
For nurses looking to expand their clinical scope while maintaining flexibility, agency contracts offer a uniquely rewarding pathway.
Discovering Regional Victoria While on a Travel Nursing Contract
Laurice has worked as an RN across several regions as a travel nurse in Victoria, including Wangaratta and Albury-Wodonga. Most recently, Laurice has spent significant time working in Mildura. Nestled between Melbourne and Adelaide, it’s a region she continues to return to.
“One of the things I really appreciate about Mildura is that although it’s regional, it still offers all the essentials I need,” she says. “It has convenient access to an airport, great restaurants, good shopping facilities, and beautiful places to explore like the Murray River and local wineries.”
For Laurice, it seems Mildura strikes the perfect balance in terms of lifestyle and opportunities.
“It has a relaxed, community feel without feeling isolated. I like knowing that Melbourne or Adelaide is accessible whenever I want a city break,” she explains. “It gives me the best of both worlds – a slower-paced lifestyle with the option of larger city amenities not too far away.”
But whilst the lifestyle and contract benefits may have been the initial draw card, it’s the people who have made an impact.
“What has truly made me stay, though, is the people,” Laurice says. “I genuinely like the hospital I work in. The staff are approachable, hardworking, and have such a positive attitude.”
Despite how physically demanding the ward can be, a warm welcome and working collaboratively can make all the difference for role satisfaction and team morale at a new placement.
“There’s always someone willing to lend a hand. That strong sense of teamwork makes a big difference and makes even the busy shifts feel manageable.”
“I also really appreciate how welcoming the facility is towards travel nurses. From the start, I felt included and supported, not just like a temporary staff member. It made it easy to build connections and friendships, which is a big part of why I keep coming back.”
What Are Travel Contracts Like Beyond the Ward?
Some of Laurice’s core travel memories have been created during spare time with new-found friends.
“We’ve tried different local restaurants, gone for walks along the Murray River, and spent time hanging out at each other’s places after shifts. Those moments outside of work really made my experience there special.”
Discovering hidden gem travel destinations and experiences is a key reason that nurses and midwives pursue agency contracts. When it comes to standout local experiences, Laurice doesn’t hesitate.
“Orange World – it’s where I had the best freshly squeezed orange juice ever! It was so fresh and sweet, and such a fun little experience.”
Another highlight from her recent travels was visiting Trentham Estate Winery, a popular riverside winery overlooking the Murray River in regional Victoria. Laurice says, “The girls and I had such a great time there – good laughs, good wine, and beautiful views.”
Why RN Laurice Chooses Affinity Nursing for Agency Contracts
Affinity Nursing is proud to be the leading travel nurse agency for travel contracts across regional, rural and remote Australia. But beyond placements, we like to understand why nurses choose to join – and continue to return, placement after placement, year after year – the Affinity community.
When asked why she continues to choose Affinity Nursing, Laurice’s answer is simple: support.
“Honestly, I keep coming back to Affinity because they’re really supportive and make everything so easy. They’re proactive in helping me secure contracts, always easy to communicate with, and actually take the time to understand what I need.”
From securing contracts to organising flights and accommodation, the process is seamless.
“Everything just runs smoothly, which makes travelling for work a lot less stressful. It’s nice knowing I can rely on them and focus on nursing and enjoying each placement.”
She also values consistent communication and career guidance.
“Whether it’s checking in about extending a contract, asking about my future plans, or discussing when I’m ready for my next placement, they consistently make me feel like my input truly matters,” says Laurice. “I also appreciate how they help keep me on track – reminding me about competencies, compliance requirements, and deadlines. It shows they care not only about filling roles, but about my career growth and overall experience as a nurse.”
Striking a balance between professional ambition and personal commitments is made easier through flexible travel nursing contracts.
“Another aspect I genuinely love is the flexibility. Having the ability to choose when to take on a contract and when to take time off allows me to reset, travel home, and spend quality time with my family and friends. That balance is incredibly important to me.”
Advice for Nurses and Midwives Considering Travel Contracts
For nurses contemplating exploring the world of travel contracts, Laurice says, “If you’re thinking about giving travel nursing a go, just try it!”
“I’d recommend starting with a shorter contract to see how you settle in and then take it from there. Chances are, you’ll love the experience – it’s a great way to grow professionally, meet new people, and see different parts of the country.”
How Can Travel Nursing Support My Goals?
Reaching your personal and professional goals in healthcare is possible when you’re well-supported. The right travel nursing agency can help shape a career path that is both rewarding and sustainable, one contract at a time.
As a travel nurse or midwife with Affinity Nursing, you benefit from:
- A smooth onboarding process and support from dedicated specialists
- Access to roles across all states and territories including Victoria
- Quality, reliable placements through government tenders
- Opportunities for back-to-back contracts
- Higher overall earnings per contract to help reach financial goals sooner
Ready to take the leap? Join the Affinity Nursing community to see where travel contracts could take you.
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