Author: Jair Castro – Team Lead & Migration Strategist
Connecting with our community: supporting mental health professionals across Australia
Our Health Specialist Team at Absolute Immigration has been busy assisting Registered Nurses (Mental Health) with visa applications as we head into the final months of the year. While our workload grows, October reminded us of something even more important, connection.
October marked National Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year’s theme, “Connect with your community,” truly resonates with us. At Absolute Immigration, connection runs through everything we do, from supporting our clients and partners to looking after our own team.
But mental health awareness doesn’t end in October. As the year draws to a close and many of us feel the pressure of deadlines, family commitments, and festive expectations, it’s worth pausing. Check in on colleagues, friends, and anyone who may have gone quiet.
Recognising the professionals who care for others
This reflection extends to those on the frontline. Mental health professionals who dedicate their lives to helping others. In December 2024, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released the first national estimates of LGBTQ+ Australians, revealing that around 4.5% of Australians aged 16 and older (more than 900,000 people) identify as LGBTQ+. That figure rises to nearly 10% for those aged 16 to 24.
As Linda Fardell, ABS Head of Health Statistics, noted, this demonstrates the growing diversity of Australia’s population. As referenced by the Gender Justice Project, “LGBTQIA+” is generally considered the full acronym, while “LGBTQ+” is a commonly used shortened version.
At the same time, LGBTQ+ Health Australia reminds us that people from marginalised communities often experience poorer mental health due to discrimination and stigma. This is just one example of how different groups in our community face unique challenges. Whether they are younger Australians navigating identity and belonging, or older Australians requiring specialised aged care and mental health support.
The growing need for mental health nurses
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, there is now a national shortage of Registered Nurses (Mental Health – ANZSCO code 254422) across every state and territory. In 2024, shortages were present in most regions, but excluded NSW and the Northern Territory. This shift underscores an escalating national demand for skilled, compassionate professionals.
The figures speak for themselves: Australia needs more mental health nurses to care for people across the lifespan, from our younger population to older Australians in aged care, and everyone in between.
Standing with our community
Working with health professionals who dedicate their lives to caring for others is a privilege. Their resilience and compassion inspire us and strengthen the communities we all share.
We also acknowledge LGBTQ+ Health Australia for its continued advocacy and encourage anyone seeking support to reach out to QLife, which is a free and confidential LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral service available nationwide.
Connection begins with a conversation. Let’s continue to check in, support one another, and celebrate those who dedicate their lives to the mental health of our community.
Take action today
If you are a health professional seeking guidance and visa support, our Health Specialist Team at Absolute Immigration is here to help. Contact our team today at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com to discuss how we can support you.
