Graduate Diploma of Forensic Mental Health Nursing

About the course

This Graduate Diploma of Forensic Mental Health Nursing develops specialised knowledge for nursing practice with people experiencing complex mental health needs within forensic and secure settings. You’ll build skills for assessment, therapeutic engagement and evidence-informed care while considering legal, ethical and risk-management contexts that shape practice. The course is designed to strengthen professional capability for postgraduate nursing roles in forensic mental health nursing.

Career outcome

Graduates may advance into specialist nursing roles supporting people with mental illness in forensic, custodial or secure clinical environments. Career pathways can include forensic mental health nurse positions in prisons, justice health services, secure psychiatric units and community forensic teams, contributing to assessment, risk management and recovery-focused care. This graduate diploma supports progression in postgraduate nursing practice in forensic mental health nursing.

Living Costs in Melbourne**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 15 - 20	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,583 - 2,094	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,207 - 1,596
Transportation (Daily) A$ 7 - 9	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 240 - 318

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)