In December 2024, Health Ministers approved a new Registration standard: Endorsement for scheduled medicines – designated registered nurse prescriber paving the way for qualified registered nurses to prescribe Schedule 2, 3, 4 and 8 medicines in partnership with an authorised health practitioner who is an independent prescriber. This landmark change will take effect mid-2025.

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has been developing a designated RN prescribing model since 2016.

Under the registration standard, qualified RNs will be able to prescribe within their competence and scope of practice in partnership with authorised independent prescribers, such as nurse practitioners or medical practitioners.

Who can prescribe?

RNs with at least three years’ clinical experience will be eligible to apply for endorsement with the NMBA as designated registered nurse prescribers after completing postgraduate education.

RNs must be employed in a health service and not working as sole practitioners or in private practice.

Post-endorsement, applicants will undergo a six-month clinical mentorship with an independent prescriber before their competencies are assessed against the National Prescribing Service (NPS) Prescribing Competencies Framework.

Keep updated

RNs interested in prescribing should explore approved programs, keep updated with NMBA developments, and seek advice from nurses with prescribing experience.

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