Frequently Asked Questions
How to use this page
- Click the arrow next to each section to expand and view commonly asked questions and their answers.
- Use the search bar to quickly find all mentions of your topic across all pages.
My referee details were entered incorrectly, can I change them?
Yes. You can amend all details, including the email address, yourself. The system will automatically resend the referee request once changes are saved.
Do I need to remind my referee to complete their report?
Yes. It is ultimately your responsibility to ensure referee reports are completed on time. Follow up directly with your referee to confirm they received the link and intend to complete the report. PMCV will send automated reminders at 14 days, 7 days, and 2 days before the due date, but will not send manual reminders on your behalf.
My referee didn’t receive the form — what can I do?
- Verify the email address entered in Nominate Referees is correct.
- Ask your referee to check their junk or spam folder.
- Ask whether your referee can provide an alternative email address.
- Before the deadline, email allocations@pmcv.com.au with your details and your referee’s details so PMCV can attempt a resend.
Note: Some email domains (e.g. .gov.au, RCH) block external emails — an alternative email address may be required.
My nominated referee is no longer available. Can I nominate someone else?
Yes. You can remove the referee before the referee deadline and add a new one, ensuring they have sufficient time to complete the report. The removed referee will automatically receive an email notifying them they have been removed. This applies to all incomplete reports.
Can I remove a completed referee report and add a new referee?
Yes, but the completed report will be deleted immediately and cannot be recovered under any circumstances. The referee will also be notified that their report was removed.
Who can access my referee reports?
Only the Health Services you have preferenced. PMCV collects referee reports but does not read or assess them.
Can I view my referee reports?
No. All referee reports are confidential.
Can I still work as a nurse or midwife without completing a formal graduate program?
Yes. Graduate programs are not mandatory. Nursing and midwifery graduates hold full registration and can be employed in any health, community, or aged care setting in either the public or private sector without completing a formal graduate program.
Do all public health services in Victoria participate in the PMCV graduate match?
All public health services in Victoria, along with two private health services (St Vincent’s Private and Holmesglen), participate in the annual PMCV graduate match if they have positions available.
Will I be disadvantaged if I don’t get a graduate program?
No. Graduate programs are not mandatory for employment as a registered nurse or midwife. Many graduates begin their careers in entry-level roles outside formal programs and go on to build successful and fulfilling careers.
You might consider starting in:
- Aged care, disability, or primary and community health
- Private hospitals and health services
- Regional and rural health services
- Mental health or custodial services
Practical experience, adaptability, and a commitment to ongoing learning will place you in a strong position. You can also pursue further study and professional development to support your progression. For more information, visit the Career Opportunities page on this website.
What further study options are available to support my career progression?
Further study can help you build specialised knowledge and explore new career pathways. Options include:
- Postgraduate nursing degrees in areas such as mental health, oncology, critical care, and paediatrics
- Postgraduate or entry-to-practice midwifery programs for those looking to transition into midwifery
University course coordinators can help you explore study options tailored to your interests and goals.
Several scholarship programs are also available to support further study:
- Australian College of Nurse Practitioners scholarships
- Aged Care Nursing Scholarship Program
- Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarships
- Full Course Fee Postgraduate Mental Health Nurse Scholarship Program a fully funded initiative for those pursuing mental health nursing. More information is available at health.vic.gov.au.
Are there structured transition programs available outside of formal graduate programs?
Yes. The following programs provide supported pathways into the workforce:
- Aged Care Transition to Practice Program funded by the Australian Government, this program supports new aged care nurses with training and professional development.
- Nursing in Primary Care Transition to Practice Program delivered by the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA), this program is for graduate nurses working in primary healthcare who have graduated within the past two years and have not completed a transition program.
APNA also offers a job-matching service to connect graduates with employers in primary care settings.
I have a dual degree are there specific pathways I should consider?
Yes. Graduates with dual degrees may be able to pursue career pathways that draw on both qualifications.
For example, graduates of a dual nursing and paramedicine degree may wish to explore the Graduate Ambulance Paramedic Program, which offers a structured graduate year for paramedics. Students in their final semester of a Paramedicine Board of Australia-recognised qualification are encouraged to register their interest. Applications and enquiries are accepted year-round.
Am I eligible to participate in the 2026/27 Matching Process?
Refer to the Eligibility Criteria on the Match webpage to confirm your eligibility. Participants generally include:
- Final-year students in registered nursing, registered midwifery, or dual nursing/midwifery
- Postgraduate diploma of midwifery students (clinical placement only)
I applied to the 2025 GNMP Match, but my training was delayed; now I’ll finish in 2026. Can I reapply for this year’s Match?
Yes, provided your new training completion date falls within the 2026 Match eligibility window (1 January 2026 to 30 June 2027). Note: This is not your graduation or registration date).
If you completed training in 2025, and weren’t successful you are not eligible to reapply, without proof of PMCV pre-approved Special Circumstances e.g. Paternity Leave.
I completed my training before 1 January 2026. What are my options?
You are not eligible for the 2026 Match (positions commencing in 2027), unless your training completion was delayed from 2025 into 2026 — in which case you may reapply.
If you are not eligible, consider:
- Private health facilities
- Seek or Careers.Vic for available positions
- The Opportunities section on the GNMP website for other ways to start your career
I was unallocated in the 2025 Match. Can I reapply?
No. Each year’s Match is open to newly eligible candidates only. Applicants who were unmatched in a previous year cannot re-enter.
The only exception is if your training completion was delayed, making your new training completion date 2026. Note that this refers to your training completion date, not your graduation date.
I’ve already completed a graduate year. Can I apply again?
Yes, with restrictions:
- If you completed a nursing graduate program, you may apply for midwifery only roles.
- If you completed a midwifery graduate program, you may apply for nursing only roles.
- You cannot apply for positions in the discipline where you have already completed a graduate year.
If I apply for positions outside the Match, am I still eligible for the GNMP Match?
Yes. You may apply through both the PMCV GNMP Match and directly to other employers (such as private hospitals or interstate programs) at the same time.
However:
- If you accept a position outside the Match, you must withdraw from the GNMP Match before the final closing date.
- If you remain in the Match past the cutoff and receive an allocation, that allocation is binding. See the Code of Conduct for more details.
Can I apply for a mid-year graduate program?
Yes. Mid-year intakes are part of the same annual Match — there is no separate mid-year process. To be considered for a mid-year 2027 intake, you must participate in the 2026 Match.
To find mid-year opportunities:
- Check the Health Service Directory for services offering multiple intakes
- Review health service application forms to indicate which intake(s) you are interested in
- Contact health services directly if you need clarification
I previously completed an EN graduate program and am now studying to be an RN. Am I eligible?
Yes. The GNMP Match is for RN qualified applicants and is separate from EN graduate programs, so your prior EN graduate program does not affect your eligibility.
What positions are offered in the GNMP Match?
The Match includes the following graduate streams:
- Nursing
- Mental Health
- Midwifery
- Dual Nursing/Midwifery
- Postgraduate Midwifery
Positions are predominantly within Victorian public health services, plus two private health services.
I am a Priority Group Two candidate — what are my chances of being allocated?
PMCV is unable to predict individual outcomes, as results depend on candidate preferences and health service rankings. That said, many candidates in similar situations are successfully allocated each year. Completing each stage of the process as thoroughly as possible gives you the best chance of a good outcome.
I will finish my training in late June 2027. Should I apply for the 2026 or 2027 Match?
We recommend applying for the 2027 Match. While you may be technically eligible for the 2026 Match, the timing of start dates and AHPRA registration means very few programs would be available to you, significantly reducing your chances of success. You would also need to go through the full application, video interview, and health service interview process twice.
Applying in 2027 gives you access to the full range of programs and the strongest chance of a successful outcome. You are permitted to work without restrictions in the lead-up to positions commencing in 2028.
You may only apply for both years if you are unsuccessful in 2026. If you receive an allocation in 2026, you cannot decline it or withdraw in order to try again in 2027.
I have just found out I am pregnant. Should I apply this year or request Special Consideration for the 2027 Match?
If you are unable to commence a program in 2027, applying in this year’s Match may put you in a difficult position. If you were allocated a position and could not take it up, you would be relying on the health service to offer a deferral — and most have limited capacity to do so. A deferral can leave a health service short-staffed for the year, and many are unable to repeat their recruitment process to fill an unexpected vacancy. If a deferral cannot be offered, the position would be withdrawn and you would remain unmatched.
Choosing to wait and apply in the 2027 Match avoids going through the entire process twice and gives you access to a broader range of programs. If you were offered a deferral this year, you would also be tied to that allocation even if your circumstances change.
Ultimately, the decision is yours — but please be aware that a deferral is not guaranteed if you are allocated through this year’s Match.
To request Special Consideration for the 2027 Match, simply submit either a birth certificate or a letter from your doctor.
Who are the eligible education providers in Victoria?
Do I have to complete a video interview for the Match?
PMCV strongly encourages all approved candidates to complete the video interview. Most health services use recordings as part of their assessment and shortlisting process, and it forms an important component of overall selection. Your interview will be visible to the health services on your preference list via the APS website.
How many questions will I be asked during the video interview?
Please refer to the Video Interview section on the GNMP website for full details.
I am away during the interview period. What should I do?
The video interview can be completed from any location or time zone all you need is a phone or laptop and a Wi-Fi connection. Plan ahead and set aside time in your calendar, as it is your responsibility to complete the interview.
Does it matter what I wear for the video interview?
Yes. Treat it as a professional job interview and dress accordingly.
Can I review my answers after submitting?
No. You cannot watch back your responses once they have been submitted.
Can I re-record my video interview answers?
No. You may only re-record the practice question. Once the interview begins, you cannot reattempt a question unless there is a verified technical issue — being unhappy with your performance is not grounds for a reattempt. If you encounter difficulties, it is better to submit some responses than none.
Can I test the video interview before I begin?
Yes. During the interview period you can:
- Test your technology
- Complete one practice question
Note that you will not be able to re-watch your responses afterwards.
How do I access the video interview?
When the interview period opens, log in to your GNMP account. A video interview button will appear within your application.
What if I have a technical problem before starting the interview?
Seek assistance from family or friends, or use troubleshooting resources (such as Google) to check that your camera, microphone, and speakers are working. You are responsible for ensuring you have a fully functioning device before beginning the interview.
What if I have a technical problem during the video interview?
Contact PMCV by email at allocations@pmcv.com.au during business hours only.
Glossary of Key GNMP Terms
Allocation – When the algorithm assigns a candidate to a Health Service based on preference order, ranking, and available positions.
Candidate – A person applying through the GNMP Match.
Distance Education – Victorian-based candidates studying online at an interstate university.
GNMP – Graduate Nursing & Midwifery Program.
Intake Month – The month your program is expected to commence.
International Students
- Eligible: Temporary residents with valid work rights, studying in Australia, graduating with Australian qualifications.
- Ineligible: Students with overseas‑obtained qualifications.
Multi‑Site Program – A program delivered across several linked Health Service locations.
Preference – The Health Services you list (in order) for consideration in the Match.
PMCV – Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria — the administrator of the GNMP Match on behalf of the Department of Health.
How many preferences can I list?
In the PMCV GNMP Match you may preference up to six (6) health services.
Only preference health services where you are genuinely willing to work.
Do I have to preference four health services?
No, it is not mandatory to preference all six.
However, listing the maximum number increases your chance of receiving an allocation.
Only preference health services you are fully prepared to accept.
Is the preference order important?
Yes. Preference order is very important.
The matching algorithm considers:
- Your ranked preferences
- Each health service’s ranking of you
- The number of available positions
List health services in true order of preference, and do not include any where you are unwilling to work.
How can I preference Critical care or other specialty programs?
There will be a question within your PMCV Candidate Application that asks, “Do you wish to apply for a program in a Special Interest area, from the list you can select Critical Care or Combined Nursing/Mental Health, Perioperative or Paramedicine”.
That flags to the health services that you are interested in that program, and it is up to the health services to distribute candidates to the available positions in that program internally not through the Match.
How can I indicate what intake (start date) I prefer?
The will be a question in the PMCV Candidate Application from which Health Services will be aware of. Once candidates are allocated to the Health Services via the Match, they will internally manage the allocation of intake dates.
Is it okay to apply to multiple streams at only one hospital?
Yes, you may focus your application on one health service if you wish. However, limiting yourself to a single organisation reduces your chances of being matched.
Having multiple health service options provides greater flexibility while still prioritising places you genuinely want to work.
Where can I find information about the health services in the Match?
Refer to the Health Service Directory located on the HS Directory page of the GNMP website.
Do I need to also apply directly to the Health Services?
Yes. You must submit applications directly to each Health Service you listed in your GNMP Match preferences. PMCV does not assess applications. All candidates must provide the required documents, such as:
- CV
- Academic transcript
- Residency or work rights documents
- Placement reports
- Any other documents requested by the Health Service
For specific requirements, refer to each Health Service’s website.
Can the selection criteria differ between Health Services?
Yes. Each Health Service manages its own selection and assessment process. PMCV cannot provide the assessment criteria used by individual Health Services. Across the Match, 90 Health Services and nearly 180 program streams each manage their own selection process. Candidates should review the websites of the Health Services they intend to preference. Health Services may request:
- Cover letter (a lot will not require this)
- CVs
- Clinical assessment tools
- Video interview recordings
- Referee reports
May not be required, check each health service.
- Cover letter
- Live interviews
What if my documentation isn’t finalised before the application deadline?
You should submit whatever documentation you have available at the time of application.
ANSATs and Academic Transcripts: If your final placement or results aren’t available before the deadline, you can submit your most recent document instead (for example, a mid-point ANSAT in place of a final one). Briefly note this situation in your resume so assessors are aware.
Because the Health Service assessment period takes place well after applications close, updated documents such as a final ANSAT or Academic Transcript may be requested by, or provided to, Health Services at that later stage.
Referees from placements after the cut-off date: These cannot be submitted through the PMCV portal and there is no standard template for them. Whether a Health Service will consider a late referee is entirely at their discretion — you would need to contact them directly.
The Health Service is asking for my PMCV number, where do I find that?
Your PMCV number (Candidate ID) is generated when you apply to the GNMP Match, which opens after 10am on 1 June 2026. Your Candidate ID can be found at the top of your candidate profile in the APS.
Can I apply to the Health Services before the PMCV Match opens?
No, you should not apply until the Match is open. You should include your PMCV Candidate ID number in your Health Service application. If a Health Service is using a recruitment portal, the position will not be listed until 10am on 1 June 2026.
How should I upload my clinical appraisals if they are completed through PebblePad, and can I submit an interim appraisal if my final one is not yet available?
Uploading your appraisal: Clinical appraisal documents must be uploaded directly to the Health Service as files. Do not submit via a PebblePad access or sharing link.
If your final appraisal isn’t available yet: You can upload your most recent completed appraisal — such as an interim or mid-placement assessment — particularly if it relates to an acute placement. Briefly note this in your resume or application. An updated appraisal may be requested or accepted later during the Health Service assessment period.
How do I apply for the GNMP Match?
You must apply to both PMCV and each Health Service in your preference list.
PMCV application:
- Create an account on the GNMP website
- Complete the online application
- PMCV manages video interviews, referee reports, preferences, and the allocation algorithm
Health Service applications:
- Apply directly via each Health Service’s website
- Submit your CV/resume and all required documents
- Cover letters are only required if the Health Service requests them
What positions are offered in the GNMP Match?
The Match includes the following streams:
- Aged Care
- Mental Health
- Midwifery
- Nursing
- Nursing/Midwifery (Dual)
- Paediatrics
- Postgraduate Midwifery
Positions are offered mainly within Victorian public health services, plus two participating private services.
Eligible participants include:
- Final-year students in nursing, midwifery, dual nursing/midwifery, or nursing/paramedicine
- Postgraduate diploma of midwifery students completing clinical placement only
I can’t find a listing for Nursing/Mental Health (Dual) or specialty programs such as Critical Care, Perioperative, or Paramedicine. How do I apply?
These programs are listed under the broader Nursing stream (or in some cases Mental Health, as determined by the Health Service). Candidates are designated to specific specialty programs by the Health Service after Match allocations are made.
Within your Candidate Application, there is a question asking whether you wish to apply for a Special Interest area. Selecting an option — for example, Critical Care — flags your interest to Health Services. It is then up to each Health Service to distribute candidates to available specialty positions internally, outside of the Match itself.
How do I indicate which intake (start date) I am interested in?
Your Candidate Application includes a question where you can state your preferred intake date. Health Services will work with allocated candidates after the Match to confirm intake dates.
Do I upload my CV/resume to PMCV?
No. Upload your CV/resume directly to each Health Service. Do not upload it to PMCV.
How do I submit my PMCV application?
You do not need to manually submit anything. Your application autosaves continuously until the Match close date.
I’m missing ticks in my application checklist. Will my application still proceed?
Yes. Not all checklist items require a tick:
- Admin field: No tick is required — clicking Save will generate one automatically.
- Document Upload section: Only required for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander candidates, who need to submit a letter of confirmation from a recognised Indigenous organisation (such as a Land Council, Community Council, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation, or Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service).
I won’t have my academic transcript until after the close date. Can I apply late?
No. Applications close on 1 July 2026 and no late applications are accepted. Academic transcripts are submitted to Health Services, not PMCV — contact each Health Service directly if you have questions about late document submissions.
Can I apply to Health Services that are not in my preference list?
No. You can only apply to Health Services included in your preference list, and Health Services will only assess and rank candidates who have preferenced them.
Does submitting early improve my chances?
No. All applications are reviewed after the application period closes. However, submitting early gives your referees more time to complete their reports, which is encouraged.
What is the Career Intentions Statement?
A 350-word free-text section in your PMCV application that replaces a cover letter for most Health Services. It should include:
- A brief introduction
- Your goals for the next 12 months
- Any longer-term professional interests and why they matter to you
- Relevant clinical experiences, positive feedback, or key learning moments from your undergraduate program
Write this in your own words. Do not use AI.
What do the application statuses mean?
- Details Required: You still need to complete your declaration, eligibility, application, or preferences.
- Pending Approval: Minimum requirements are complete; PMCV will manually review your application.
- Registration Approved: Your application has been approved by PMCV and you may proceed to the video interview stage.
- Withdrawn: You withdrew your application, or PMCV withdrew it due to missing or ineligible information.
Note: Initial approvals are based on the information you supply. If subsequent checks reveal you are ineligible, PMCV may withdraw your approval.
Does my GPA affect my chances?
PMCV does not require GPA scores. However, individual Health Services may request them as part of their own assessment process.
How can I improve my application and chances of receiving an allocation?
- Complete both your PMCV and Health Service applications thoroughly
- Rank preferences honestly — only include Health Services where you would genuinely be prepared to work
- Complete all video interview questions
- Consider including rural placements in your preferences, which can broaden your opportunities
- Only preference programs you are eligible for (for example, do not apply for Midwifery if you are not eligible)
- Provide two current referees, with at least one from an acute placement if possible
- Remind referees to submit their reports before the deadline
- Write a genuine Career Intentions Statement — do not use AI
How do I withdraw from the Match?
Withdraw via the APS applicant portal by Friday 4 September, or email PMCV at allocations@pmcv.com.au.
Do I need to meet the English Language Skills (ELS) registration standard?
Yes. To be registered as a nurse or midwife in Australia, you must meet the English Language Skills (ELS) standard. This requirement is set under the National Law and ensures all practitioners have the level of English needed to practice safely.
You must meet this standard if:
- You are applying for nursing or midwifery registration in Australia for the first time, or
- You are applying for registration (including moving from non-practising to another registration type) and have not used English as your primary language for more than five years
For full details, visit: Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia – English Language Skills.
Do I need to submit my English language test results to PMCV?
No. You do not need to upload English test results to PMCV. However, you must indicate in your application:
- Which English language pathway applies to you, and
- The status of your English Language Skills Test (if relevant)
Health Services will require you to meet the same English language standard needed for initial AHPRA registration.
I grew up and studied in Australia. Which pathway do I use?
If you grew up and completed all your education in Australia, select the Primary Language Pathway.
Which countries are recognised for the Primary Language Pathway?
Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, British Indian Ocean Territory, Canada, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guernsey, Guyana, Isle of Man, Jamaica, Jersey, Malta, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, Saint Helena (Ascension and Tristan da Cunha), St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom, United States of America, and US Virgin Islands.
I didn’t attend secondary school in a recognised country, but I’ve studied in one for several years. Which pathway applies?
You may be eligible under either of the following pathways:
Primary Language Pathway — if English has been your primary language throughout your education.
Extended Education Pathway — if you can provide evidence of all of the following:
- At least five years of full-time equivalent continuous education
- Taught and assessed in English
- Completed in a recognised country
- Including your nursing or midwifery tertiary qualification
If your nursing or midwifery qualification was not taught and assessed in English in a recognised country, you will need to meet the ELS standard through the English Language Test Pathway.
Pathways diagram
If I hold a student or bridging visa, am I eligible to apply?
You are eligible for the GNMP Match if your visa grants you the right to work in Australia. If both your current visa and the visa you plan to transition to permit lawful work in Australia, you may apply.
Please note:
- Health Services may request additional information or evidence about your visa status
- PMCV cannot interpret visa conditions — you must confirm your own visa details independently via the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or your university’s international student office
I’m on a bridging visa without an expiry date. How should I complete my application?
- Provide as much visa information as you can within your PMCV application
- The visa expiry date field is not mandatory
- Use the comments section to add any relevant clarification
- Include a note about your bridging visa in your CV/resume when applying to Health Services, to explain any missing details
What visa types are eligible for the Match?
Eligible visas are those that provide the right to work in Australia now and into the future. Your visa must ensure you have unrestricted work rights for the duration of your graduate year. Health Services will use VEVO to verify your visa status.
PMCV cannot advise on specific visa rights or restrictions. The list below was originally provided by the Department of Health, but requirements may change — always verify current information independently.
| Visa subclass | Work rights |
|---|---|
| 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme | Unlimited |
| 189 – Skilled Independent | Unlimited |
| 190 – Skilled Nominated | Unlimited |
| 407 – Training visa | Workplace training only — limits apply |
| 482 – Temporary Skills Shortage | Unlimited — must work in sponsored occupation and for sponsor only |
| 485 – Temporary Graduate | Unlimited |
| 491 – Skilled Work Regional | Unlimited in regional areas |
| 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional | Unlimited — must work in sponsored occupation and for sponsor only |
| 500 – Student visa | 48 hours per fortnight (unlimited when course not in session) |
| 820 – Partner visa (temporary) | Unlimited |
| 801 – Partner visa (permanent) | Unlimited |
| Bridging visas | Work rights vary — always check via VEVO |
How does the matching process work?
PMCV uses a matching algorithm to allocate candidates to positions based on four key factors:
- Candidate Priority Group — Priority Group 1 candidates are processed first; Priority Group 2 candidates are allocated from any remaining positions.
- Candidate preference order — Candidates list up to six preferred Health Services in their PMCV application and must also apply directly to each of those Health Services.
- Health Service ranking — Each Health Service reviews applications, scores them, and ranks candidates in the APS.
- Available positions — Each Health Service has a fixed quota for each nursing and midwifery stream.
A detailed video explanation is available on The Match webpage.
How do allocations occur?
You are allocated to your highest-ranked preference where your ranking falls within that Health Service’s position quota. Priority Group 1 candidates are allocated first; Priority Group 2 candidates are then processed from any remaining positions. You can only receive one allocation, and the result is binding.
Can I be allocated to a Health Service I didn’t preference?
No. You can only be allocated to a Health Service that appears in your preference list.
I have moved house and now live far from my listed preferences. What should I do?
If you can no longer accept an allocation from your listed Health Services, you must notify each Health Service by [TBA].
If you do not withdraw and you are allocated, the Match is binding unless the Health Service grants a Release Letter. Release Letters are only issued in cases of genuine hardship and are not guaranteed.
If You Are Successful
How do I accept my graduate position?
Click the acceptance button in your Candidate Portal.
How long do I have to accept my allocation?
You have 48 hours from the time results are released.
Why is there an acceptance period if outcomes are binding?
Circumstances can change between June and September — for example, exam failure, delayed placements, pregnancy, or relocation. Candidates with valid reasons may decline. The acceptance step also allows Health Services to begin onboarding promptly.
What if I miss the acceptance deadline?
The Health Service will withdraw your allocation. If you have extenuating circumstances, contact the Health Service immediately.
I’ve been matched — what happens next?
Accept or decline within 48 hours. After acceptance, the Health Service will contact you within one to two days to begin onboarding and issue a contract.
Will I receive offers from other Health Services?
No. The algorithm gives you the best available outcome based on your preferences. You will not hear from Health Services ranked lower on your list. If you decline your offer, you cannot receive further offers through the GNMP Match.
If You Are Unallocated
I wasn’t allocated. What happens next?
Approximately one week after the acceptance period, PMCV will re-run the algorithm to fill any vacancies created by candidates who declined or did not respond to their allocation. PMCV and the Health Services will have a process in place for unallocated candidates — details will be published when available.
Can I decline my position?
Yes, but there are significant consequences:
- You may not be eligible for any further PMCV-managed graduate program opportunities, including Late Vacancy Management.
- Health Services are aware of candidates who decline a Match allocation, and offering positions to those candidates in future would constitute a breach of the Code of Conduct.
Before declining, contact your allocated Health Service — particularly if the issue relates to placements, delayed completion, or parental leave, as they may be able to assist or offer a deferral.
Can I defer the start of my graduate year?
This is entirely at the Health Service’s discretion. Contact your allocated Health Service directly to discuss your situation.
Important: If you choose not to apply for a graduate year immediately after completing your studies, you become ineligible for PMCV matches in future years.
Am I eligible for release under exceptional circumstances?
Possibly. You may request a Release Letter from your allocated Health Service if you are experiencing genuine hardship. Supporting evidence is required.
- Release Letters are issued at the Health Service’s discretion and are not guaranteed.
- You must present the Release Letter to any new Health Service before discussions about an alternative position can begin.
- Without a Release Letter, you cannot apply elsewhere through the Match.
Can a Health Service withdraw my allocation?
Yes. Allocations may be withdrawn in situations such as:
- No response to communications
- AHPRA registration not completed in time
- Right to work or visa issues
- English language requirements not met
- Failure to supply required documentation
- Police check or Working with Children Check not cleared
- Not meeting role requirements (e.g., vaccinations, rotation availability, or shift patterns)
The Health Service will notify both you and PMCV if your allocation is withdrawn.
Is there a minimum or maximum FTE for graduate nurses and midwives?
FTE requirements are set by each individual Health Service. Graduates are generally employed between 0.6 and 1.0 FTE to support their transition into practice. Contracts and onboarding arrangements are outside PMCV’s scope.
How many referees do I need?
Securing two clinical referee reports is an essential part of your application. There is a set timeframe for submission, and Health Services rely on the information they provide.
Do I have to ask my referee before nominating them?
Yes. Always ask your referees for permission before nominating them. This ensures they are willing and available to complete the report within the required timeframe.
What information do I need to get from my referee before entering their details?
The following must be obtained directly from your referee. Entering inaccurate details may result in them not receiving or completing the report:
- Title, first name, and last name
- Preferred email address
- Current job title
- Current Health Service
Who can be a referee?
You must provide two clinical referees through PMCV. Each referee must:
- Be a Registered Nurse (RN) or Registered Midwife (RM) with more than one year of experience
- Have worked closely with you in your capacity as a student nurse or midwife
- Be able to provide an informed opinion of your suitability for the role
Accepted referee roles include:
- Clinical Support Nurse/Midwife
- Clinical Preceptor (buddy/supervisor)
- Nurse/Midwife Unit Manager
- Clinical Nurse/Midwife Consultant
- Clinical Nurse/Midwife Educator
- Clinical Facilitator
If you are unable to provide a second referee from a student placement, you may nominate a Clinical Supervisor from your time as a RUSON or RUSOM.
Some Health Services may request additional referees as part of their own application process. These reports must be written by the referee and submitted directly to the Health Service.
If you are unsure whether a particular referee or placement is suitable, contact your university — PMCV cannot provide this advice.
Can I nominate a referee from a non-clinical role?
No. The PMCV Clinical Referee Template contains questions that can only be answered by someone who has supervised you in a clinical setting. Non-clinical referees must not be entered into the PMCV candidate portal.
I’m unsure who to nominate. Who can help?
Direct any questions about appropriate referees, suitable placements, or alternatives to your university. PMCV cannot advise on these matters.
Referee selection is your responsibility. The one firm rule is that non-clinical referees are not permitted for the PMCV referee report. Beyond that, it is the Health Service, not PMCV, that determines whether a referee report is acceptable.
I won’t complete my second placement before the Match closes. What can I do?
Health Services understand that training may still be in progress. You should:
- Note the upcoming placement in your CV with as much detail as possible
- State that you can supply a referee report upon request
- Be aware that PMCV cannot accept referee reports after the Match closes
In the meantime, you may:
- Use a second referee from your first placement, or
- Nominate a buddy nurse, provided they meet the referee criteria (see below)
Make sure your CV clearly explains your situation.
Can I nominate my buddy nurse as a referee?
Yes, provided they meet all of the following criteria:
- They are a Registered Nurse (RN) or Registered Midwife (RM)
- They have more than one year of experience
- They have worked closely with you as a student and can assess your suitability for the role
Is my placement suitable to use as an acute placement?
PMCV cannot advise on placement suitability. Please contact your university for guidance on both placement suitability and referee selection.
I am working as an EN or EEN. Can I use references from this role?
This is not preferred. Referees should be from placements where you worked as a student Registered Nurse, as that is the role being assessed through this process.