The rise of on-demand healthcare staffing: What it means for hospitals and aged care in 2025

sandeep sr
Jun 17
3 min read

In 2025, Australia’s healthcare system continues to face unprecedented workforce challenges. From chronic nurse shortages and increasing patient complexity to unpredictable surges in demand, hospitals and aged care facilities are under immense pressure to maintain high standards of care with limited resources.

Enter on-demand nurse staffing—a flexible, tech-enabled solution that is rapidly reshaping how healthcare providers manage their rosters and respond to real-time workforce gaps.

At Health On Call, we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, providing just-in-time staffing support that ensures continuity of care, operational efficiency, and workforce sustainability.

This blog explores the drivers behind the growth of on-demand healthcare staffing in Australia and how organisations like Health On Call are enabling this shift through smart rostering, rapid deployment, and reliable nurse networks.

What is on-demand nurse staffing?

On-demand nurse staffing refers to the ability to quickly fill last-minute or short-notice shifts with qualified nurses and support staff. Whether it’s a sick call, a sudden patient surge, or seasonal demand, on-demand staffing allows facilities to respond swiftly and maintain safe staffing ratios.

This model relies heavily on:

Digital rostering platforms
Real-time shift alerts
A pool of ready-to-work, vetted healthcare professionals
Flexible workforce planning strategies

For hospitals and aged care facilities, the benefits are clear: less disruption, lower burnout, and consistent care delivery.

Why it’s on the rise in 2025

The demand for flexible nursing workforce solutions has grown steadily over the past few years, and in 2025, it has become a strategic imperative. Here’s why:

1. Widespread nurse shortages

Australia continues to experience a significant shortfall in qualified nurses. According to recent workforce projections, the country may face a shortfall of over 85,000 nurses by 2030 if no action is taken. As a result, hospitals and aged care homes can no longer rely solely on permanent staffing models.

2. Increased demand for aged care

The ageing population is placing further strain on residential aged care facilities. Many providers now require agile staffing solutions that allow them to ramp up or scale down quickly—particularly when dealing with flu seasons, COVID resurgences, or compliance inspections.

3. Shift in workforce preferences

Many nurses now prefer flexible work arrangements, including casual shifts and part-time rosters. On-demand staffing offers clinicians the freedom to choose when and where they work, while also supporting facility needs.

4. Technology adoption in healthcare

Advanced rostering systems, workforce apps, and digital compliance tools have made it easier than ever to match nurses with available shifts in real time. The technology underpinning this system is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity.

How Health On Call is powering on-demand staffing

At Health On Call, we specialise in healthcare shift coverage and operate with the agility needed to support modern-day staffing demands. Here's how we support our clients across Australia:

1. Rapid response capability

Our rostering system is powered by smart alerts and a mobile-ready workforce. We can fill urgent shifts—often within hours—across hospitals, aged care homes, community care, and NDIS support services.

2. Vetted, qualified professionals

We maintain a large pool of registered nurses, enrolled nurses, and AINs who are fully credentialled, compliant, and ready to work. Each professional is screened for clinical ability, cultural alignment, and communication skills.

3. Flexible, tech-enabled rostering

Our clients can request shifts digitally, track confirmations, and receive real-time updates. Whether it’s a week in advance or a few hours’ notice, our system ensures seamless coordination and accountability.

4. Coverage across multiple settings

Health On Call provides staffing for hospitals, residential aged care facilities, home care environments, and NDIS participants. Our reach and versatility make us a go-to partner for a wide range of providers.

The impact on care quality and workforce morale

Beyond logistical advantages, on-demand staffing also helps reduce burnout among core staff. When permanent employees are stretched thin, temporary relief from qualified agency nurses ensures they receive the support they need—leading to better morale, retention, and patient outcomes.

For patients and residents, having sufficient, capable staff on hand means:

Fewer delays in care
Improved safety and supervision
Higher satisfaction and trust in the facility

Looking ahead: The future of flexible nursing

The future of healthcare staffing in Australia is undoubtedly flexible, responsive, and digitally enabled. Facilities that embrace this model will be better positioned to weather demand fluctuations, maintain compliance, and retain a happier, healthier workforce.

At Health On Call, we’re not just filling shifts—we’re building a stronger, more resilient healthcare system one placement at a time.

Partner with Health On Call

Whether you're dealing with last-minute absenteeism, surge staffing needs, or long-term workforce planning, Health On Call is your trusted partner for on-demand nurse staffing in Australia.