Welcome to ACN’s Member Spotlight, a regular feature highlighting our wonderful nurses, and their inspirational stories.
We are delighted to introduce you to Rachael Ferris MACN, an early-career registered nurse, passionate about health equity, culturally safe practice, and rural & remote nursing. In 2025 Rachael was recognised with the NSW/ACT Young Achiever Award for Achievement in Health. She is part of ACN’s Emerging Nurse Leader Program, a member of ACN’s Rural & Remote Nursing Faculty Leadership Team, and previous Chair of ACN’s Northern Territory Region. To find out more about this valued member of our ACN community, continue reading below.
What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing?
I hadn’t considered a career in nursing until I was halfway through a different degree and realised it just wasn’t for me. Around that time, I was fortunate enough to be mentored by a Nurse Practitioner, Ruth Mursa, who encouraged me to give nursing a try. She saw something in me that I hadn’t yet recognised in myself, and I’m so glad she did, because I’ve never looked back.
Tell us about your current role and what it involves
I currently work as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Refugee Health, delivering a nurse-led model of care for recently arrived humanitarian entrants in regional NSW. I work closely with interdisciplinary teams to address complex health and social needs, while also contributing to service design and research. This role sits at the intersection of clinical care, health promotion, and system improvement. Alongside this, I work as a Clinical Nurse Educator in Armidale (MM3) and Guyra (MM5), supporting workforce development and building capability for rural clinicians.
Why do you believe it is important for nurses to be part of their professional organisation?
The Australian College of Nursing is essential for strengthening both the voice and influence of nursing. They create pathways for leadership, education, and collective advocacy. Through the ACN Foundation, I’ve accessed scholarships, leadership development, and national networks that have shaped my career; I’m currently participating in the Emerging Policy Leader Program, which has strengthened my understanding of the impact of nurses in driving system-level change. Being part of ACN means contributing to something bigger than your individual role and improving health equity the communities we serve.
What is your favourite way to unwind after a busy shift?
Getting outside is my reset. Usually that looks like walking my dogs as a chance to switch off for a while. After working in complex and often high-pressure environments, that space to slow down is essential. One of my favourite things about working in rural and remote settings is being able to slow down and appreciate the small, beautiful everyday moments in life.
You have a week’s leave – where are you headed?
Somewhere in nature, and with a bit of adventure. After spending a year as a Remote Area Nurse in the Northern Territory, I discovered I’m a waterfall chaser at heart. I love spending time in national parks where I can unplug and spend more time outdoors.
If you were not a Nurse, what do you think you would be doing instead?
If nursing hadn’t called me, I think the courtroom would have. Advocacy, equity, and a good debate: whether in scrubs or a suit, I’d still be fighting for people.
What is the best advice given to you?
The best advice I’ve received is to “lead from where you are”. It taught me that you don’t need to wait for a specific role or title to make a difference, you can create change from any position.
What would you say to a Nurse who is considering joining ACN?
I’d tell them it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made for my career. Nursing can sometimes feel isolated, especially in rural and remote settings, but ACN makes you feel connected to something much bigger. What stands out most is the sense of collective purpose: ACN brings nurses together across the country to strengthen our profession, advocate for better health outcomes, and build the profession up. Through ACN, I’ve been supported with scholarships that furthered my studies and leadership opportunities that shaped my career. No matter where you are in your career, the Australian College of Nursing has something valuable it can offer you.
If you’re feeling inspired and want to share your story, head over to The Buzz and apply now.
Not an ACN member? Join our vibrant community of like-minded nurses today.
Author: Rachael Ferris MACN
