Why Aged Care Was the Turning Point in Neha’s Nursing Career in Australia
By Monique Missak|Published 5 November 2025
Neha Gupta came to Brisbane from Nepal with a suitcase full of dreams and the drive to build a future through nursing. What she didn’t expect was how difficult starting over would feel, or how in time, aged care would become the heart of her nursing career in Australia. From language barriers and cultural shock to meaningful work and social media connection, Neha shares her story of growth and rediscovering purpose on It Takes Heart.
A new country, a new kind of challenge
When Neha first arrived in Australia at just 18, she was driven by a deep need for independence. Her parents thought she’d go on to study medicine, but for Neha, nursing was the gateway to a new life. That early leap into the unknown didn’t go to plan, but it did push her to grow.
“I didn’t have any backup plan. No friends. No SIM card. I just thought things would fall into place.”
The reality was isolating. Despite her strong academic background and confidence in her English, Neha found herself struggling with the local accent, the cultural shift, and the pressure of navigating everything alone. Yet through those early years of adjustment – learning how to study in a new system, adapting to practical nursing, and managing life’s basics on her own – she found her footing.
Learning what care really means
Neha’s nursing career in Australia didn’t follow a straight line. Early on, she imagined herself in cosmetic nursing, drawn to the flexibility and financial appeal. But once she saw the reality of the work, it didn’t sit right with her values. Making people feel more insecure was not the kind of care she wanted to be part of.
She explored community nursing and general practice, gaining valuable experience but struggling with low pay and sustainability. Eventually, aged care became the practical option she hadn’t wanted to consider. What she found there surprised her.
“The level of respect people give you as an RN, it made me feel valued.”
Now, Neha works night shifts in aged care and supports residents through telehealth consults during the day. She prepares assessments, facilitates specialist appointments, and advocates for residents who may struggle to communicate or understand what’s happening on a screen. Her role bridges clinical care and human connection.
Quiet moments, lasting impact
For Neha, aged care is about presence and patience. It’s slower paced than other settings, but emotionally deeper. Caring for people over time, especially toward the end of their lives, has reshaped how she views success and purpose.
One moment stands out clearly. A resident with little family support told Neha she felt she had no purpose left. All she wanted was to go outside and feel the sunshine. After persistent advocacy, Neha made it happen.
“She just wanted 15 minutes outside. When she came back, the smile on her face, I’ll never forget that. It’s those small moments of care. Just being there with them. That’s what makes a difference”
Outside of work, Neha shares her life online through honest, relatable content that resonates with international nurses and students navigating similar journeys. What started as a creative outlet during burnout has grown into a platform for reassurance and encouragement.
Watch Season 2, Episode 33 of It Takes Heart with Nurse Neha
More about Neha’s organisation of choice, Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue is one of Australia’s most well-known, trusted, and visited mental health organisations. For more than 20 years, people in Australia have placed their trust in Beyond Blue as a reliable source of mental health information, support, and hope – whether they’re well and want to stay that way, unsettled or struggling and need support, or in recovery and want to reconnect.
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