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Media release
TAFE NSW Orange | 20 March 2026
A local pathway into nursing for Orange's next generation
'When someone is vulnerable or sick, being the person they can rely on is the best feeling in the world. There’s definitely a need for more nurses in the region.’
Talia Opetaia, student
Regional hospitals across Western NSW face a growing shortage of nurses. TAFE NSW student Talia Opetaia is stepping up, gaining practical experience and building skills to directly support her local community.
The 18-year-old Diploma of Nursing student is completing her final theory and clinical placements in Orange. She began her pathway with a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance in 2024 and progressed to the Diploma of Nursing last year.
The Diploma program combines classroom learning with practical skills training and 400 hours of clinical placement in acute care, aged care, rehabilitation, and mental health settings.
“It’s been really helpful for all my placements,” Talia said. “You get a lot of information thrown at you, but the course prepares you for it. The practical training makes a huge difference.
“I started really timid, but you learn to fake it until you make it. The teachers are so supportive, and the practical learning really suited me.”
Her placements have included Blayney District Hospital and a cadetship with NSW Health in Molong, where she is completing a minimum of 55 shifts before transitioning to full-time employment after graduating. She has gained experience administering medication, tending wounds and supporting patients across hospital departments, including aged care and acute wards. She’s also experienced the emergency department, an area she hopes to pursue after finishing the course.
“I love helping people,” Talia said. “When someone is vulnerable or sick, being the person they can rely on is the best feeling in the world. There’s definitely a need for more nurses in the region.”
The Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD), covering almost 250,000 square kilometres, continues to face strong demand for nurses and healthcare staff. The district is comparable in size to the United Kingdom and serves more than 276,000 people. TAFE NSW graduates like Talia are helping address this need by providing safe, high-quality care to local communities.
The demand for skilled nurses is set to grow even further with major investments in regional healthcare. The $261 million Orange Hospital redevelopment has expanded emergency, maternity, cancer and specialist services. It offers 172 inpatient beds, day-only treatment spaces and a wide range of specialist care.
Right now, Talia’s focus is to gain practical experience and to provide support for patients in her community. Her future is also bright with plans to pursue further study to become a registered nurse.
“TAFE NSW is such a good place to start,” she said. “For anyone thinking about nursing, just go for it. It’s challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Media contact: Rachel Ecclestone, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.
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