Scholarships support pipeline of registered nurses in the Goldfields

For enrolled nurses in the Goldfields region, taking the next step in their nursing career has traditionally meant leaving home to study in Perth or another major city.

Thanks to funding from the WA Nickel Community Fund, up to ten students are now supported to complete their nursing degrees through Curtin’s Home Grown Nursing Scholarship program, available at the Goldfields University Department of Rural Health in Kalgoorlie.

The program supports local enrolled nurses to complete a Bachelor of Science (Advanced Nursing) through Curtin's Enrolled Nurse to Registered Nurse pathway, helping them become registered nurses while they continue to live and work in their communities.

Tyrone Brownley, a registered nurse and Aboriginal Liaison Adviser at the Goldfields University Department of Rural Health, said the scholarships would make a meaningful difference both for students and the broader region.

“The funding benefits both students and the Goldfields by keeping the vital healthcare skills we need right here in the community” he said.

“We’re grateful that BHP has worked with Curtin University to support young people to complete their degree and stay at home in their community.”

For many regional healthcare workers, the cost of further study can be a significant barrier, so the scholarships help ease that burden and enrolled nurses can focus on their studies without the added cost of relocation. 

By investing in local talent, the program aims to increase the number of qualified registered nurses living and working in the region, delivering long-term benefits for healthcare access and community wellbeing.

Through the WA Nickel Community Fund, BHP is proud to support initiatives that contribute to stronger, healthier and more resilient communities across the Goldfields.