Whether working full time, or just part time to supplement your income, Agency nursing gives nurses the flexibility to choose when and where they want to work their shifts.

Not everyone has a "9 to 5" time table - least of all nurses - and agency nursing allows nurses to control their own timetables and commitments for a better work/life balance and distraction free patient care.

The advantages of agency nursing

• Flexible shift schedules - Agency nurses can choose shifts when and where they want them, including mixing or avoiding night shifts all together for the right work/life balance for them.

• Higher rate of pay - Nursing agencies typically offer a higher hourly rate of pay compared to equivalent full-time positions as a regular employee. Excellent holiday pay and penalty rates are also available.

• Expense paid travel - For agency nurses working in rural and remote locations, many agencies cover the cost of travel and accommodation while working.

• Variety of work placements - Unlike traditional fixed nursing roles, agency nursing offers a wide range of work opportunities in different locations and departments and with this comes a variety of experiences and opportunities to improve your nursing knowledge and skills.

How to choose a nursing agency

Many factors will play a part in choosing which nursing agency is right for you. When choosing a nursing agency, consider the following:

• Where will I be offered placements? Different agencies will provide placements in different areas and for different clients, find the one that offers placements where you want to work.

• Is the agency a preferred supplier for places you would like to work? While many agencies may provide staff to the same facility, some may be preferred suppliers which will increase the available placements at the facilities where you want to work.

• Will I be given opportunities that will advance my career and education?

• What rates will I be paid?

• What extras will be included in my remuneration: uniform, education, other?


These factors and others all play a part in how to choose a nursing agency.