In attempting to address health workforce shortages generally and medical workforce shortages in particular, federal governments have introduced a number of initiatives including regulatory restrictions and incentive payments. Some of these have involved programs that encourage development of the practice nurse specialisation - qualified nurses who are employed by medical general practices.

This research paper explores aspects of the recent development of practice nursing in Australia, particularly those relating to government initiatives currently in place. The paper also discusses some of barriers which may inhibit the further development of practice nursing, and makes some comment on how these could be addressed in the future.