pharmacist in Australia

Becoming a pharmacist in Australia offers numerous benefits, such as job stability, high demand, a competitive salary, and the opportunity for career advancement. However, it also comes with challenges like the competitive entry process, high living costs in major cities, and the stress of a demanding workload.

Arief Mohammad

1/1/20252 min read

Pros and Cons to become pharmacist in Australia
Pros and Cons to become pharmacist in Australia
Introduction

Like the two sides of a coin there are both pro advantages and challenges in becoming a pharmacist in Australia and one has to know both of them in order to take a right decision and this blog helps do just that. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons to consider:
Pros of Becoming a Pharmacist in Australia

Pros of Becoming a Pharmacist in Australia

High Demand:
The demand for pharmacists in Australia is consistently high, driven by an aging population, increased health awareness, and the ongoing expansion of healthcare services.

Job Security:
demand across various sectors like community pharmacies, hospitals, research, and consultancy, offering excellent job stability.
Competitive Salary


Pharmacists in Australia enjoy competitive salaries:
Entry-level pharmacists can earn a good starting salary, with opportunities for higher pay based on experience, specialization, and location.
Increased Salaries in rural and regional areas, as there is a high demand for pharmacists in those regions.

Diverse Career Paths:
Pharmacists have the option to work in different settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, pharmaceutical industries, government agencies, and academia. Specializations like mental health pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, consultant pharmacy, and industrial pharmacy offer opportunities for career advancement.

Flexible Work Hours
Pharmacists can enjoy flexible working hours, particularly those working as locum pharmacists, who cover temporary positions like maternity leave or vacation.
This flexibility can be appealing for work-life balance.


Opportunities for Professional Growth
Continuous professional development is a requirement for pharmacists in Australia, ensuring career growth. Opportunities to specialize, pursue higher qualifications, or take on leadership roles in pharmacy organizations or health policy.
Access to a High Standard of Healthcare

Australia's healthcare system, including the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), provides subsidized medications and treatments to patients, improving access to healthcare.There is a significant shortage of pharmacists in rural and remote parts of Australia. Working in these areas can offer not only financial incentives but also the chance to contribute to underserved communities.


Cons of Becoming a Pharmacist in Australia
Competitive Entry Requirements

The process of becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia can be lengthy and competitive, particularly for international students or overseas-trained pharmacists. You need to pass the KAPS exam (Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences) which is now OPRA exam (Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Assessment) and meet the registration requirements.
For international graduates, the process can take longer, with additional steps like language proficiency tests (IELTS, OET, PTE) and supervised practice.


High Cost of Living
Australia’s high cost of living, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, can affect pharmacists, especially those starting their careers.
While salaries are competitive, they may not always be enough to offset the living costs in some metropolitan areas.


Workplace Stress
Pharmacists often work long hours, including weekends and public holidays, especially in community pharmacy settings. This can lead to work-related stress.
The role can be physically demanding, especially when dispensing medications, interacting with customers, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Regulatory Changes
The pharmacy sector in Australia is heavily regulated, with constant changes in laws, policies, and drug scheduling. Staying up-to-date with these regulations is essential, which may require ongoing education and adjustments to practice.
Changes in government policies, such as reimbursement rates and subsidized medications, may also impact pharmacist earnings and job security.


In Australia, pharmacists typically work under the supervision of other healthcare providers, like doctors. This can limit the degree of autonomy or independent practice for pharmacists, especially in community settings.

Conclusion

Becoming a pharmacist in Australia offers numerous benefits, such as job stability, high demand, a competitive salary, and the opportunity for career advancement. However, it also comes with challenges like the competitive entry process, high living costs in major cities, and the stress of a demanding workload. It’s important to carefully weigh these pros and cons before making the decision to pursue a pharmacy career in Australia.