India, Australia launch dialogue amidst 4.5 million global nurse shortage

Plans include 157 new institutes and faculty training reforms.

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Edith Cowan University and Jhpiego launched a two‑day roundtable on 17 November 2025 to strengthen competencies and workforce planning.

The dialogue focused on bilateral cooperation with Australia to advance education standards, expand workforce pathways and promote ethical migration. 

Officials highlighted that joint initiatives can support India’s institutional expansion while addressing global shortages. Joint initiatives outlined include faculty training, research exchanges and digital learning innovations.

In a keynote address, Akanksha Ranjan, Deputy Secretary (Nursing & Dental), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, noted that global nursing demand faces a 4.5 million shortfall, with 2.9 million currently serving worldwide. The government of India has announced plans to establish 157 new nursing institutions.

Faculty development was identified as a priority, with participants noting its multiplier effect across students and the broader nursing ecosystem.

Senior officials, nursing leaders, academics and development partners attended the event, underscoring India–Australia collaboration as vital for preparing nurses to meet evolving healthcare demands.