Registered Nurse – Primary Healthcare (Cairns Health Centre)

About the role

We are seeking a full‑time Registered Nurse to join the multidisciplinary team at Cairns Health Centre, located on HMAS Cairns. This position provides primary healthcare services to Australian Defence Force members, delivering high‑quality, patient‑centred care in a safe and respectful environment.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver primary healthcare, including health assessments, vaccinations and monitoring of patients in a low‑dependency ward.
• Collaborate with general practitioners, physiotherapists, mental‑health clinicians and dental professionals.
• Support defence members through injury recovery, chronic condition management and preventative care.
• Work Monday to Friday within standard operating hours, with the ability to cover a 24/7 roster as required.

Required profile

• Unrestricted AHPRA registration as a Registered Nurse.
• Minimum one year of RN experience in acute care, primary health care or a military setting.
• Current CPR certification (HLTAID009).
• Australian citizenship (baseline security clearance).
• Commitment to continuing professional development and ethical, patient‑centred care.

Required skills

• CPR certification (HLTAID009).
• Vaccination administration.
• Health assessment procedures.

What we offer

• Predictable full‑time hours with work‑life balance and holiday leave.
• Safe, respectful environment serving a professional patient cohort.
• Collaborative multidisciplinary team where you feel valued.
• Civilian role with the mission of supporting defence without a uniform.
• Practical perks such as free parking and scrubs.
• Wellbeing support including mental‑health resources and lifestyle discounts.