Nurses influence policy every day through patient advocacy, clinical decision-making, leadership, and system improvement. Yet many nurses are not aware how National, State and Territory policies are shaped or how they can influence change.

This program bridges that gap by equipping nurses with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to engage in health policy, lead conversations that matter, and influence the future of healthcare. Join the Institute of Leadership in an immersive two-day Policy Masterclass designed specifically for nurses who want to understand how health policy is shaped and how they can influence it.

Day one delivers face-to-face learning in policy, advocacy, leadership and political engagement. Day two takes participants inside Parliament House for a tour and to observe Question Time and experience policymaking in action. Ideal for emerging leaders, educators, clinicians, managers and nurses seeking broader systems influence.

 Policy Masterclass

Day one

This immersive masterclass will take you from Policy 101 through to the complex realities of political decision-making, providing practical knowledge and real-world insights that simply cannot be learned from a textbook.

Learn directly from experienced policy professionals who have worked within government, advocacy, and healthcare systems. Through engaging discussions and insider perspectives, you will gain a deeper understanding of how policy is developed, how political processes impact healthcare outcomes, and how nurses can become powerful advocates for change.

What you will gain:

• A comprehensive introduction to health and public policy
• Insights into the political landscape and how decisions are made
• Practical strategies for influencing policy and decision-makers
• Real-world examples and lessons from experienced policy leaders
• Networking opportunities with like-minded nursing professionals

Whether you are looking to strengthen your leadership capabilities, broaden your career opportunities, or make a greater impact on the future of healthcare, this two-day masterclass will equip you with the knowledge, confidence, and connections to help shape meaningful change.

Parliament House Tour Experience

Day two

Excursion tour to Parliament House, includes tour and Question Time

• Heart of the House guided tour for an introduction to the chambers, architecture, and political events highlights at Parliament House
• Question Time (Gallery) Firsthand look at Australia’s democracy in action. It provides a unique opportunity to see the Prime Minister and government ministers held accountable, observe intense political theatre, and understand how urgent national issues are debated.

Eligibility criteria

All applicants seeking to participate in this program are required to meet the following selection criteria:

Professional registration

Must be registered as a Registered Nurse and/or Enrolled Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA)

Commitment to growth
Demonstrates motivation to learn, grow, and strengthen understanding of policy frameworks and processes

Program engagement
Capable of attending the full two-day face to face Policy Masterclass and Parliament House tour in Canberra.

Program fees

ACN members: Gifted a 10% discount, bringing the course fee to $2,000

• ACN Affiliates (Platinum, Gold and Silver): Gifted a 10% discount, bringing the course fee to $2,000
• Non-members: $2,200

*This fee may be tax-deductible. Please consult your tax agent for details.

The program fee does not cover travel and accommodation costs associated with attendance at the two-day program.

TO REGISTER

Sign in or create an account to secure your place today.

ACN members

• Please log in to your membership account using the My ACN drop down box on our website. 

Non members

• If you have never enrolled into one of our online courses, you will need to “create a new account” following the prompts. 

• If you have previously enrolled, you can log on using your previous username and password.

By registering for the short course you are agreeing to the registration Terms and Conditions.