New Prescribing Pathway for RNs | NMBA Fact Sheets and Guidelines
While legislative changes are still required in Victoria, which means the standard won’t be implemented there until 2026, the national rollout is already underway. The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has released advance access to the Fact Sheet and Guidelines, helping RNs prepare ahead of time. These resources are now available on the NMBA website to support awareness and understanding of the new standard.
Under the new model, eligible RNs will be able to prescribe Schedule 2, 3, 4, and 8 medicines in partnership with an authorised health practitioner. This must occur within a clinical governance framework and with an active prescribing agreement, ensuring safe, collaborative care.
To apply for the endorsement, RNs must meet stringent requirements, including completing postgraduate qualifications and demonstrating adequate clinical experience. To qualify, RNs must:
- Complete an NMBA-approved postgraduate qualification
- Demonstrate clinical experience
- Undertake six-month clinical mentorship with an authorised health practitioner
This is more than a change in paperwork—it's a milestone for the nursing profession, offering new opportunities for nurses and improved care for patients. By expanding the capacity of nurses to prescribe, Australia is taking a vital step toward addressing health system pressures, particularly in rural and remote areas where timely access to appointments is often limited.
CNSA is closely following this important regulatory change and is committed to keeping members informed as implementation progresses. CNSA will advocate to ensure the new regulation addresses existing workforce pressures, and that nurses are fully supported through this transition—with access to appropriate education, mentorship, and professional development. It is critical that nurses not only feel prepared, but also confident and safe in taking on this extended role.
Ultimately, this initiative is expected to enhance access to high-quality, reliable medicines and reduce bottlenecks in both acute and primary care settings. It’s a future-focused move that recognises the capabilities of the nursing workforce and their potential to contribute even more meaningfully to multidisciplinary care.
To support awareness and understanding of the new standard and to give applicants time to familiarise themselves with the new standard, the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia The new Registration Standard: Endorsement for Scheduled Medicines – Designated Registered Nurse Prescriber is available on its website. Click here for more information.