Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What do I include in my CV and cover letter?
Your CV must include:
• contact details (including an email address)
• education details
• qualifications
• professional memberships
• all work and voluntary experience
• at least two references with contact details including professional email addresses.
Your cover letter should:
• identify how your skills will benefit Mater Health Services and what strengths you will bring to the role of student nurse
• include information that clearly defines your level of education
• clarifies why you are interested in studying the Diploma of Nursing at the Mater
• identify areas where you excelled, or were particularly interested in pursuing a career
• promote the skills you possess to fulfil the job requirement.
What happens after I submit my online application?
Once you have submitted all of the required documentation, you will receive an automated email acknowledgement of your application. If you do not receive this notification, please contact the Diploma of Nursing team to confirm if your application has been lodged. You will be contacted via telephone and have a brief phone interview before progressing to the next stage. If you are offered a face to face interview, you will be contacted via email or phone with the date and time for the interview. If you are unable to attend at the allotted time, or you would like to decline an interview, please contact the Diploma of Nursing team as soon as possible. If you are not short listed for an interview, you will be notified via email.
What happens if I submit a late application?
Applications lodged after the closing date will not be accepted.
What is involved in the interview?
Your interview will involve two different activities and take approximately one hour to complete. The activities will include a one-on-one interview and a language, literacy and numeracy quiz.
The purpose of this interview format is to allow participants to demonstrate competencies relevant to the successful performance in the student nurse role. This Interview model is one of the most effective tools in measuring abilities and allows evaluation of each individual’s practical and analytical skills.
What do I bring to the interview?
You must bring a current form of photo identification (passport, drivers licence, student card).
What happens if I am unable to attend an interview?
As the face-to-face interview is an essential component of the Mater interview process, if you are unable to attend an interview, we are unable to proceed with your application.
If you are applying from interstate you will need to be available in Brisbane at the time of the interview. The Diploma of Nursing team will endeavour to contact you at the earliest possible time so that you can organise travel arrangements.
When will I be notified of my interview result?
The Diploma of Nursing recruitment team will contact you within two (2) weeks of the completed interview process.
If you are a successful candidate, you will be contacted via email and phone. If we are unable to reach you via phone, only an email offer will be sent.
If you are unsuccessful, you will be notified by phone or email.
What happens after I accept an offer?
Once you have accepted a position within the Diploma of Nursing Program, you will be sent an enrolment pack and be advised of the Program commencement date. When you receive your enrolment pack you will need to:
• complete and return enrolment form
• commence immunisation requirements
• apply for a Criminal Record Check (if you do not already have one)
• attain your First Aid Certificate (if you do not already have one) and ensure the CPR component is current (if expired)
• have all pre-requisite documentation certified by a JP.
What are the advantages of studying at Mater?
As a Mater student you will have access to some of the following benefits:
• subsidised staff meals and car parking
• discounts to EFM Staff Health Club (and free access to on-site swimming pool)
• access to Mater Childcare centre
• corporate discounts at many South Bank, Woolloongabba and South Brisbane businesses
• access to a wide range of learning opportunities through Mater Education Centre
• University of Queensland library membership
• research support through Mater Research Support Centre and Nursing Research Centre
• close proximity to bus and train stations, and easy access to major highways.
Who do I contact if I have any questions?
If you have any questions about Mater’s Diploma of Nursing Program or the application process please contact the Diploma of Nursing team via 07 3163 6657 or email .
Is the course available part time?
The Diploma of Nursing Program is currently only available on a fulltime basis.
Do I get a job once I have completed the course?
The Diploma of Nursing program provides education and training to gain qualifications which will enable you to apply for registration as an enrolled nurse. Employment at Mater as an Enrolled Nurse will require you to apply for any advertised positions and follow Mater Health Services recruitment process.