Aged Care Graduate

Nurse Program
Information
 Aged Care Graduate Nurse Program Information
The Aged Care Graduate Nurse Program at Western District Health Service is run in partnership with
LASA Victoria and Monash University and comprises of rotations through various aged care facilities
of Western District Health Service and incorporates an evidence based educational program at
Monash University.

The twelve month aged care program encourages development and consolidation of skills
and knowledge by facilitating best practice in the care of older people in the residential
facility under the supervision and guidance of experienced and competent nurses.

The Aged Care Graduate Program is designed to provide the graduate with:

A structured and challenging clinical experience in a supportive environment

Increased career satisfaction and better resident care by assisting participants with a
smooth transition from student to graduate
Opportunities to gain exposure and experience in a variety of aged care settings
A greater understanding and awareness of the ageing process and associated disease
processes
Consolidation of knowledge and skills with successful integration into clinical
practice
Organisational and prioritisation skills
An understanding of clinical risk management in the workplace and preventative
strategies associated with risk management
An understanding of aged care legislation and accreditation requirements
A supportive education program that is evidence based and directed towards
leadership and management within an aged care facility
Regular feedback of progress throughout the twelve months with formal appraisals
The Western District Health Service Aged Care Graduate Nurse Program offers:
Outstanding clinical support and guidance by Aged Care Practice Development Nurses
Extensive mentoring foundations within the aged care facility through preceptorship
and mentoring
Clinical support contact with a trained Monash University preceptor in the workplace
Regular support visits by the LASA Victoria supervisor
Continuous learning through mandated theoretical sessions at Monash University for
seven weeks. These sessions are of one week duration at a time
Diversity of aged care nursing practice and clinical skills
A comprehensive one week orientation program
Access to an outstanding clinical skills laboratory
Numerous paid professional study days and sessions throughout the year
Six weeks annual leave plus a paid ADO every month for full time participants
Formal appraisals reflecting on your development and consolidation of skills in the
clinical area
Ongoing continuity of employment and development in the Second Year Program

Aged Care Facilities at Western District Health Service:

The Birches (Hamilton):
The Birches provides permanent and respite accommodation for 45 residents and offers
high and low level nursing care to the frail, elderly and disabled. Residents at The Birches
enjoy single rooms, with ensuite facilities.

The Birches has a secure unit within the facility providing care for dementia specific
residents and also specializes in psychogeriatric care of the elderly.

Grange Residential Care Services (Hamilton):

The Grange Residential Care Service provides permanent high and low level care and respite
accommodation for 50 residents and manages with the support of personal care services
thirty Community Aged Care Packages. Residents at The Grange enjoy a homely
environment with single ensuite rooms.

Valley View Nursing Home (Coleraine):

Valley View Nursing Home provides permanent accommodation for 12 residents and offers
high level nursing care. Valley View Nursing Home has double and single rooms. The
nursing home is attached to the Coleraine District Health Services.

Penshurst Nursing Home (Penshurst):

Penshurst Nursing Home provides permanent accommodation for 17 residents and offers
high level care in both single and double rooms. The nursing home is attached to the
Penshurst District Health Service.

All residential aged care facilities at Western District Health Service provide a
resident centred holistic approach to the care they deliver and encourage all
residents to maintain their independence and special interests.
Application Process:

Applications are to submitted through the Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria

Computer Matching Online Service by following the Graduate Nurse Computer Match link at
www.computermatching.pmcv.com.au

Following registration through the computer match system, formal applications for the
Hamilton Base Hospital Aged Care Graduate Program including; Curriculum Vitae, Three
Referees, Academic Transcript and three most recent clinical placement reports are to be
forwarded to:

Chris McGennisken
Nurse Education Co-ordinator
Education Centre
Western District Health Service
PO Box 283
Hamilton Vic 3300
Phone: 03 55518266
Chris.mcgennisken@wdhs.net

All applications to Western District Health Service are appreciated and it is assured that each
application received is given the time and consideration it deserves. Candidates who are
successfully shortlisted through the selection process will be invited to attend a formal discussion.