The Alfred Hospital is one of the largest metropolitan healthcare facilities in Melbourne, Australia, and has increased the number of graduate nurse positions offered from 110 in 2007 to 145 in 2008. This rapid rise in numbers provides a significant increase in the workforce but also intensifies pressure on available resources. Working as a clinician educator on an acute 34-bed inpatient ward with medical specialties my aim was to examine to what degree we are alleviating the challenges confronting our graduate nurses. After reviewing the literature it was necessary to critique the current Graduate Nurse Program at the Alfred. Four graduate nurses were interviewed after three months working in the unit to provide a snapshot of the reflections of our newest colleagues in the unit. New insights were disclosed in relation to relocation, increased consolidation, commencing full-time work and responsibility and accountability. Drawing on these insights recommendations to further improve graduate transition included surrounding preceptor selection/preparation, clinical support, expectations, structured planning, planned interviews and an option for rotation.