Early career mental health nurse programs 

Start your career in youth mental health at PYMHWS. Build a meaningful career supporting young people experiencing mental ill health.

At Parkville Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Service (PYMHWS) – Victoria’s first dedicated public youth mental health service – you’ll work at the forefront of care, alongside experienced clinicians in a purpose-built, multidisciplinary environment.

We invest in your development, wellbeing and long-term career, while working together to improve outcomes for young people, families, carers and kin.

Graduate Mental Health Nurse Program

For newly qualified registered Nurses

Start your career with a structured pathway into specialist youth mental health nursing.
Our two-year graduate program provides a strong clinical foundation, combining hands-on experience with formal education and supported learning.

What you’ll receive

  • Two-week structured orientation
  • Clinical supervision and preceptorship
  • Dedicated Clinical Nurse Educators
  • Tailored study days and assessments
  • Skills-based assessments and competency frameworks
  • An accredited program in partnership with leading Victorian universities
  • Support to complete a Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing

Program Structure

Year 1: Work in inpatient and/or sub-acute settings alongside experienced clinicians
Year 2: Rotate through specialist community settings while completing postgraduate study

How to apply

Applications are via:

  • Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria (PMCV)
  • PYMHWS Work With Us page

Applications open: 1 June – 1 July 2026
We follow PMCV Key Dates

Further information

Online information evening on May 6th

“I was indecisive when it came to applying for grad programs, but since choosing PYMHWS, I haven’t had any doubts. The orientation and supernumerary provide great support during the transition from student to nurse. The team is great and promotes learning from a diverse group of health professionals. Coming to work each day is exciting knowing I am supported by my colleagues, have opportunities to learn and grow into a nursing professional, & all the while helping young people live meaningful lives!”

MACK, POSTGRADUTE MENTAL HEALTH NURSE 

Transition to Specialty Practice – Mental Health Nurse Program

For Registered or Enrolled Nurses with prior mental health exposure

Build confidence and capability as you transition into mental health nursing in a structured, supportive environment. This 18-month program (with intakes throughout the year) is designed to consolidate your clinical skills while developing specialist expertise.

What you’ll receive

  • Comprehensive orientation
  • Clinical supervision and preceptorship
  • Dedicated Clinical Nurse Educators
  • Tailored study days and assessments
  • Skills-based assessments and competency frameworks
  • An accredited program in partnership with leading Victorian universities
  • Support to complete a Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing

Program Structure

  • First 6 months: Intensive PYMHWS-led learning program
  • Following 12 months: Clinical practice with supported completion of postgraduate study at your chosen
  • Clinical experience – inpatient care and Hospital-in-the-home settings

“Stepping into my new role as an RPN at PYMHWS, I feel genuinely happy and proud of the path I’ve chosen. It’s not always easy to embrace change, but this transition feels right. I’m grateful to be part of such a supportive team and a workplace that truly makes you feel like you belong. Excited for what’s ahead.”

NELI, TRANSITION TO SPECIALTY PRACTICE MENTAL HEALTH NURSE

Transition to Specialty Practice - Enrolled Nurse Program

For experienced Enrolled Nurses looking to specialise

Take the next step into mental health nursing with a structured, clinically focused program. This 12-month program (multiple intakes throughout the year) supports you to transition into mental health nursing while building and consolidating your clinical skills in a structured and supportive environment.

What you will receive

  • Comprehensive orientation
  • Clinical supervision and preceptorship
  • Dedicated Clinical Nurse Educators
  • Tailored study days
  • Skills-based assessments and competency frameworks

During the program, you will gain hands-on experience working alongside multidisciplinary clinicians in the acute inpatient unit.

Why join PYMHWS?

  • Work in a new, purpose-built public mental health service
  • Be part of a high-performing, multidisciplinary team
  • Access structured learning and postgraduate pathways
  • Contribute to innovative, youth-focused models of care
  • Be supported to grow your career in mental health nursing

Find out more

All our upcoming opportunities can be found on our Work With Us page. We would love to hear from you – email earlycareernursing@pymhws.org.au for more information.  

Need services and support right now?

If you’re in crisis or need to talk to someone immediately
Other support options

Lifeline:13 11 14

Kids Helpline:1800 55 1800

Suicide Call Back Service:1300 659 467

13YARN:13 92 76

If you’re a young person aged 12-25 or a family member seeking mental health support, we’re here to help. You don’t need a referral to contact us – every door is the right door.

Call us on 1800 888 320 for treatment and new referrals or (03) 9966 9100 for general enquiries