Scope of practice resource released for employers of nurses and midwives

04 Oct 2022

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has developed a fact sheet on the roles and scope of practice of registered nurses, enrolled nurses, nurse practitioners and midwives. 

The fact sheet: Scope of practice and capabilities of registered nurses, enrolled nurses, nurse practitioners and midwives utilises information from the NMBA’s registration standards, standards for practice, codes and guidelines. It has been developed as a guidance for employers, private and public health services, and other practitioners.

Under the National Law, nursing and midwifery are recognised as two separate professions. Nursing also has two divisions, registered nurse and enrolled nurse. In addition to registered nurses, enrolled nurses and midwives, there are also nurse practitioners. Each of these titles are protected under the National Law with each having different education, knowledge, skills and standards for practice and different responsibilities and activities.

The fact sheet clarifies the educational outcomes, provides examples of core activities, and highlights the fundamental differences between each NMBA practitioner category. 

Please note, a consumer version of the document will be shared in the future to simplify the differences of scope between ENs, RNs, NPs and midwives for the general public. 

Access the fact sheet on the NMBA website.

For more information

• Read the consultation paper and supporting FAQs
• Read about the current English language skills registration standard requirements
• For media enquiries: (03) 8708 9200.
• For registration enquiries: 1300 419 495 (within Australia) +61 3 9285 3010 (overseas callers).