Filipino ICU nurse Jocelyn Carpio accepted a position with Healthscope at NBH based on information that the role could provide a potential pathway toward permanent residency after a six-month probationary period.
Jocelyn’s English test results have since expired and she has been advised that she needs to sit a new English exam before her current employment with Healthscope ends on 30 April.
A NSWNMA member, Jocelyn said she understands that if she achieves the required points and meets the eligibility criteria, “NBH would be supportive of recommending me for a Subclass 190 permanent residency application”.
Jocelyn has extensive international nursing experience, including 13 years working in Singapore followed by two years in Ireland, where she was also progressing toward permanent residency.
She said she chose to accept the NBH position rather than remain in Ireland because it offered an opportunity to continue her nursing career in Australia and potentially pursue permanent residency.
Australia is geographically closer to the Philippines, which would allow her to remain closer to family.
Jocelyn said the NBH NSWNMA branch has kept her informed about the transition from Healthscope to NSW Health and developments affecting her visa situation.
“I have two children attending school in Sydney and, if I cannot currently achieve the required points for permanent residency, I will explore options to extend my visa so I can continue working in Australia,” she said.
“My priority is to maintain a stable visa that allows me to continue working and supporting my family.
“Having stability would also allow me time to prepare”.