TLA Australia

Pathway for UK Pharmacists to Practice in Australia

If you're a UK-trained pharmacist looking to practice in Australia, here’s a step-by-step guide to the process:

1. Eligibility Check with the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC)

- Submit necessary documents, including a Certificate of Good Standing from the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
- This process takes up to 8 weeks and costs approximately AU$1,000.

 For details, visit: APC Website

 

2. Complete the Competency Assessment of Overseas Pharmacists (CAOP) Exam

- Once eligibility is confirmed, register and pass the CAOP written exam.

For support, contact: info@pharmacycouncil.org.au

 

3. Connect with TLA for Assistance in finding a role and apply for the appropriate VISA.

Before moving to Australia, you’ll need to secure the appropriate work visa, this is often based on the roles that are available and what type of sponsorship you and the pharmacy owner would like to move forward with. Below is a list of options, review these to see which option would be suitable based on your eligibility.

Option 1: Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

  • Type: Permanent visa (requires state/territory nomination).
  • Benefits: Live and work anywhere in the nominating state indefinitely.
  • Eligibility: Positive skills assessment, relevant work experience, and meeting the points test.

Option 2: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

  • Type: Temporary visa for skilled workers in designated regional areas.
  • Duration: 5 years, with a pathway to permanent residency after 3 years.
  • Eligibility: Requires nomination by a state/territory or sponsorship by an eligible relative in a regional area.

Option 3: Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)

  • Type: Employer-sponsored visa for skilled workers.
  • Duration: 5 years, with eligibility for permanent residency after 3 years.
  • Eligibility: Requires a job offer from an approved employer in a designated regional area.

Option 4: Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)

  • Type: Temporary visa allowing young adults to work and travel in Australia.
  • Duration: Valid for up to 3 years, depending on completed work.
  • Eligibility: Open to UK citizens aged 18–30.

 

4. Complete Supervised Practice

- Undertake 4 weeks of supervised practice in Australia under a registered pharmacist.

 

5. Register with the Pharmacy Board of Australia (AHPRA)

- Once supervised practice is complete, apply for full registration with AHPRA.

 

Additional Information

- Timeframe: The entire process can take about a 1 year.
- Estimated Cost: AU$5,000 (including exams, registration, and visa fees).

 For the latest details, visit:

 

Living & Working in Australia – What UK Pharmacists Need to Know

Australia offers diverse career opportunities, a great lifestyle, and a range of climates depending on where you choose to work. Here’s a guide to Australia’s states, their weather, and what they are known for.

New South Wales (NSW) – Sydney & Surrounding Areas

New South Wales has mild winters, ranging from 10 to 17°C, and warm summers between 22 to 30°C. It is home to Sydney’s iconic landmarks, including the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and well-known beaches.

Victoria (VIC) – Melbourne & Beyond

Victoria experiences cool winters between 6 to 15°C and warm summers from 18 to 28°C, often described as having “four seasons in a day.” Melbourne is known for its coffee culture, sports, arts scene, and vibrant city life.

Queensland (QLD) – The Sunshine State

Queensland offers a warm climate year-round, with winter temperatures between 15 to 25°C and summer temperatures from 25 to 35°C. The state is famous for the Great Barrier Reef, tropical beaches, and outdoor activities.

Western Australia (WA) – Perth & Regional Areas

Western Australia has a Mediterranean climate, with winters between 10 to 20°C and summers reaching 25 to 35°C. It is known for its pristine beaches, wine regions, and a relaxed lifestyle.

South Australia (SA) – Adelaide & Wine Regions

South Australia experiences dry summers ranging from 25 to 35°C and cool winters between 8 to 16°C. The state is known for its affordable living, wine regions, and laid-back lifestyle.

Tasmania (TAS) – Australia’s Greenest State

Tasmania has the coolest climate in Australia, with winter temperatures between 3 to 12°C and summer temperatures from 12 to 22°C. It is known for its stunning landscapes, national parks, and outdoor adventures.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) – Canberra

The ACT has cool winters ranging from 0 to 12°C and warm summers between 15 to 30°C. As the nation’s capital, Canberra is home to government institutions, universities, and high-quality living standards.

Northern Territory (NT) – Remote & Outback Locations

The Northern Territory has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 40°C. It is known for its rich Indigenous culture, national parks, and iconic landmarks such as Uluru.

 

Major Pharmacy Banner Groups in Australia

Chemist Warehouse – Australia’s largest discount pharmacy chain, known for high-volume dispensing, competitive pricing, and strong retail focus. Pharmacists in these stores often work in fast-paced environments with a high prescription turnover.

Priceline Pharmacy – A hybrid between beauty, wellness, and pharmacy services, Priceline balances retail with professional healthcare. Pharmacists in these stores provide health consultations, vaccinations, and minor ailment treatment, often in a customer-facing role.

TerryWhite Chemmart – Focused on clinical services, TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies offer vaccinations, health checks, medication reviews, and chronic disease management. This group emphasises professional pharmacy practice alongside retail operations.

There are smaller banners and Independent Pharmacies. To find out more, simply research the Pharmacy name to better understand their model and service offering. Many pharmacists in Australia choose to own and operate independent pharmacies, allowing them to provide tailored healthcare services without the structure of a banner group. These pharmacies can range from boutique-style, specialty health pharmacies to small-town pharmacies serving remote communities, where pharmacists often operate at the top of their scope.

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