Pursuing an Australian Nurse Practitioner Career: Barriers and Enablers

<h2>Abstract</h2> Nurse practitioners (NPs) are valuable health care sector contributors. However, barriers and enablers to becoming an NP in Australia are poorly understood. To better understand these barriers and enablers, semistructured focus groups were conducted at a professional symposium for nurses, NPs, and NP candidates/students. Responses were thematically analyzed. Transcripts included 20 participants from regional and rural areas and generated the themes "Pathway Clarity" and "Financial Viability." Providing clear pathways through training, endorsement, and credentialing, structured on-site training programs, and funded positions for students and preceptors are support training outcomes for NPs, therefore maintaining and growing a high-quality NP workforce.