The United Kingdom, Liverpool at John Moores University. 

At a Manchester recruitment conference, I heard great things about Australia, and my neighbour, a nurse, had moved to Brisbane. During the recession, the NHS was cutting back on staffing and closing several wards. The weather and culture were contributing factors.

In Australia, the nursing culture is more laid-back than the UK. 

Additionally, it's important to choose a specific area to focus on early, as there are more placements in mental health across various domains. Once you complete your program, you’ll be qualified to work in any sector of mental health.

As a person of colour, some clients have declined my care, while others have expressed disapproval of my ascent. Racism still exists, and people often assess you based on your race and status rather than your capacity to deliver high-quality care. However, once people get to know you, things change. 

There is also a significant emphasis on workers' compensation, and the union is far more robust than in the UK, with sick leave remuneration having a substantial impact.

For nurses who are culturally and linguistically diverse, speaking slowly and learning the terminology used in your workplace will help you get comfortable. Find a sport you enjoy and connect with like-minded individuals by going out and making friends while learning about the local culture.

• Andrew, Associate Nurse Unit Manager.
• Maeve, Midwifery Program Coordinator (Acting)
• Robert, Nurse Unit Manager at an Addiction Medicine Unit
• Celebrating and Supporting Our Internationally Qualified Nurses and Midwives