Background The results of the few studies found investigating relationships between socio-demographic variables and job satisfaction in nurses are mixed. Nevertheless some evidence exists which indicates that some socio-demographic variables are related to nurses’ job satisfaction. Moreover reports indicate that job satisfaction is linked to the retention of nurses. Relationships between socio-demographics and job satisfaction of Australian nurses are examined in the current study.

Aim To examine relationships between socio-demographic factors and job satisfaction and identify if these factors predicted job satisfaction levels in Australian nurses.

Methods A cross sectional survey was conducted of 2000 Australian registered nurses who were at the time members of an industrial and professional organisation. The nurses were randomised and stratified according to gender and were asked to answer questions on a socio-demographic questionnaire developed by the researcher.

Results The majority of respondents showed positive job satisfaction scores. Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) found the covariates age, years of experience and years in current job were all moderately to highly positively correlated with each other (all r > 0.40, p < 0.001), however there were no significant interactions between these covariates and Job Satisfaction. Multivariable analysis found significant positive relationships existed between job satisfaction, specialty area and health sector.

Conclusions Specialty area and health sector showed significant associations with job satisfaction in nurses. These variables should be considered by governments, nursing, organisational leaders and policy makers when developing future policies and strategies aimed at retention. These variables should be investigated further in relation to nursing job satisfaction.