HECS-style student loans for enrolled nursing diplomas and guaranteed government-subsidised places for health assistants are among the reforms announced by the PM. By Annabel McGilvray

Nursing professional and industry groups have cautiously welcomed the increased accessibility for enrolled nursing and health assistant training in the latest vocational education changes put forward by Prime Minister Julia Gillard. HECS-style student loans for enrolled nursing diplomas and guaranteed government-subsidised places for Certificate III in Health Services Assistance are among the Skills for All Australians package announced by Gillard late last month. "I think it will make a difference," said Christine Anderson, president of the Enrolled Nurse Professional Association NSW. "It...