Attracting and Retaining New Graduates in Healthcare

The Australian healthcare sector is under pressure. Rising demand, workforce shortages, and the challenge of an ageing population mean that bringing in the next generation of health professionals has never been more important. At Frontline Health Recruitment, we see the critical role new graduates play in shaping the future of care, and we know how to help employers not only attract them, but keep them. 

The Value of New Graduates 

Graduates bring energy, enthusiasm, and the latest clinical knowledge into workplaces. They’re quick to adopt new technologies, open to feedback, and eager to make a difference. For employers, investing in graduates isn’t just about filling current vacancies, it’s about building a strong pipeline of future leaders and specialists. 

Hiring Before Graduation: AHA Pathways 

One of the smartest strategies for securing talent early is hiring students as Allied Health Assistants (AHAs) before they’re fully registered. 

Many final-year physiotherapy, speech pathology, and occupational therapy students are eligible to work as AHAs while they complete their studies. This approach benefits both sides: 

  • Employers gain early access to emerging talent, build relationships, and ease workforce pressures. 
  • Students gain real-world experience, confidence, and a smoother transition into full professional roles. 

By the time they graduate, these professionals are already familiar with your systems, culture, and patients, making them more likely to stay long-term. 

Creating a Supportive Graduate Experience 

Attracting grads is only the first step. Retaining them requires structured, thoughtful support, including: 

  • Structured supervision: Regular, meaningful oversight to help grads translate theory into practice and build confidence. 
  • Graduate programs: Formalised onboarding and rotations across specialties to provide variety, mentoring, and clear career direction. 
  • Mentorship: Pairing graduates with experienced clinicians to guide their development and strengthen workplace culture. 
  • Continuous learning: Opportunities to pursue professional development, training, or specialisation, demonstrating long-term investment. 

Employer Branding Matters 

Graduates are selective. They’re drawn to workplaces that not only offer career pathways but also demonstrate strong values and supportive cultures. To stand out: 

  • Share success stories of early-career staff across your website and LinkedIn. 
  • Highlight your graduate program and supervision structure in job ads. 
  • Promote flexibility, wellbeing initiatives, and the supportive culture they’ll be joining. 

The Recruitment Lens 

At Frontline Health Recruitment, we understand the nuances of attracting and retaining graduates. From leveraging AHA roles for final-year students to building compelling graduate programs, we partner with employers to ensure they secure the talent needed today, and nurture it for tomorrow. 

Final Thoughts 

The future of healthcare in Australia depends on the next generation of professionals. By opening the door early through AHA opportunities and creating structured programs that support growth, employers can build loyalty, reduce turnover, and foster a sustainable workforce. 

At Frontline Health Recruitment, we’re here to connect you with emerging talent ready to make an impact, and to help you create the pathways that will keep them with you.