The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) is the preeminent and national leader of the nursing profession. ACN's intent is to enhance health care by advancing nurse leadership. It does this by developing and nurturing the leadership skills and expertise of nurses. Through its membership and education services, and leadership development program, ACN encourages and supports nurses at every level to develop their leadership skills and competency in order to make a strong contribution to policy by providing their professional, economic and health perspectives.
ACN is a registered higher education and a registered training organisation. ACN is also the Australian member of the International Council of Nurses.
ACN believes that all nurses can be leaders, regardless of their job title or position. Leadership is a mindset and a set of actions, commitments and beliefs that produce results. Nurse leaders and nurses with leadership skills are needed at every level of the health and aged care systems, to inform and shape the strategic direction and drive the necessary changes.