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Welcome to the February edition. In 2026, we continue to focus on strengthening safe, contemporary practice across the nursing and midwifery professions. We are pleased to share updates on approved programs of study for designated registered nurse prescribing and an invitation to provide feedback on the proposed revision to the EN and RN standards for practice. This edition also includes important information on preparing for this year’s renewal period, which will open in April. Warm regards,
To complement the release of the Fact sheet: Guidance for nurses and midwives working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners, the NMBA and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practice Board developed two videos to showcase what a culturally safe, racism-free, collaborative relationship between practitioners looks like. These videos provide information to nurses and midwives about the important role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners play in contemporary healthcare settings. Watch and share the first video in the series: Providing culturally safe care.
The NMBA has approved multiple programs of study that lead to the endorsement for scheduled medicines – designated registered nurse prescriber. Find the approved programs of study on the Ahpra website by using the Approved programs of study search tool. This is an important milestone as it enables registered nurses to commence specific education and training to prepare for prescribing in partnership with an authorised health practitioner. The NMBA continues to work with key stakeholders to support the roll-out of designated registered nurse prescribing in Australia.
Practitioner and community member positions have opened up in the ACT, Northern Territory and South Australian Boards. The State and Territory Boards work in partnership with Ahpra to make notification (complaint) and registration decisions about individual practitioners, based on national policies and standards set by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. This an opportunity to be involved in the regulation of Australia’s largest health profession. To apply find out more and apply, visit Ahpra’s opportunities page. For enquiries, please contact [email protected]. Applications close Sunday 8 March 2026.
Karen Dolci The NMBA acknowledge with great sadness the passing of Ms Karen Dolci, Community Member of the Queensland Board of the NMBA. Karen served with dedication across the Queensland Board, Immediate Action Committee and Indigenous National Special Issues Committees. Her warmth, integrity and commitment to community representation enriched our work. She will be deeply missed.
Maxine Duke The NMBA is deeply saddened to advise of the passing of Professor Maxine Duke. Maxine served as the Chair and member of the NMBA Victorian Board for many years, and her contribution to nursing and midwifery regulation was significant.
Maxine was a highly respected leader whose dedication, integrity and deep commitment to public safety shaped the way the professions are regulated today. Her wisdom and guidance has had a lasting impact on the NMBA, the Victorian Board, and the broader regulatory community. Mark Bodycoat The NMBA is saddened to advise of the passing of Mr Mark Bodycoat, who made an exceptional contribution to the National Scheme over many years through his service across multiple national, state and profession‑specific committees.
The NMBA is inviting comment on the proposed revised EN and RN standards for practice. You can participate by completing the questions and providing feedback via an online survey. Feedback is required by close of business on Friday 13 March 2026.
