Is it still worth pursuing a career in pharmacy in Australia given the high saturation in urban areas? Absolutely, and here’s why. Our latest blog post explores the benefits of taking the KAPS/OPRA exam, highlighting the evolving pharmacy landscape in Australia. Despite the saturation in cities, regional and rural areas are in dire need of qualified pharmacists. The 8th Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA) has introduced initiatives to support the sector, including improved access to pharmacy services in underserved areas and expanded roles for pharmacists. Additionally, Australia has increased visa options for skilled workers, making it easier for overseas pharmacists to work in the country. By passing the KAPS/OPRA exam, you validate your qualifications and boost your chances of securing a visa and job in Australia. Discover the numerous opportunities for professional growth, community impact, and a better work-life balance in regional areas. Visit our blog for detailed insights and guidance on how Elite Expertise can help you succeed in the KAPS/OPRA exam and embark on a rewarding pharmacy career in Australia.
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The pharmacy landscape in Australia is experiencing significant changes. With a high saturation of pharmacists in urban areas, many aspiring pharmacists wonder if it’s still worth pursuing a career in this field. If you’re an overseas pharmacist, you might be asking yourself, Should I take the KAPS/OPRA exam Australia Despite the challenges, the answer is a resounding YES! and here’s why.
Understanding the KAPS/OPRA Exam
The Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences (KAPS)/Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA™) exam is a critical step for overseas pharmacists seeking to practice in Australia. This exam, administered by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC), assesses your pharmaceutical knowledge and ensures you meet the high standards required in Australia.
The 8CPA and Its Impact
- The 8th Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA), a framework that governs the remuneration and regulation of community pharmacies in Australia, has introduced several initiatives to support the pharmacy sector.
- One of the key focuses of the 8CPA is to improve access to pharmacy services in regional and rural areas, which are currently experiencing a shortage of qualified pharmacists.
- This agreement has paved the way for increased funding and support for pharmacies, making it an opportune time for overseas pharmacists to enter the field.
- The 8CPA supports all Australians in accessing safe, affordable, life-saving medicines and services through community pharmacies.
- This historical agreement between the Commonwealth Government and the Pharmacy Guild of Australia will significantly benefit pharmacists and pharmacy business owners financially.
- Under the 8CPA, pharmacists can now prescribe medications for 23 conditions, enhancing their role and responsibilities in the healthcare system.
Increased Visa Options
- Australia has recently increased its visa options for skilled workers, including pharmacists.
- This year, a total of 3,300 additional visas have been allocated, combining the 491 and 190 visa categories, compared to the previous year.
- Furthermore, the employer-sponsored visa numbers have increased to 7,175.
- Starting from November 2024, the work experience requirements for employer-sponsored visas will be reduced from 2 years to 1 year.
- The government recognizes the need for healthcare professionals in regional areas and has introduced visa categories that prioritize these regions.
- This means that by passing the OPRA Exam Preparation, you not only validate your qualifications but also increase your chances of securing a visa to work in Australia.
Real-Life Opportunities in Regional Areas
- While urban centers may be saturated, regional and rural areas in Australia are in dire need of qualified pharmacists.
- These areas offer ample opportunities for overseas pharmacists. For instance, one pharmacist from the UK moved to a regional town in New South Wales after passing the KAPS/OPRA exam.
- They not only secured a well-paying job but also became an integral part of the community, enjoying a balanced lifestyle and a lower cost of living.
The Positive Side of the KAPS/OPRA Pathway
High Demand in Regional Areas: The shortage of pharmacists in regional areas means that there are numerous job opportunities. These positions often come with added benefits such as higher salaries, relocation assistance, and professional development opportunities.
Professional Growth: Working in regional areas allows pharmacists to take on a broader scope of practice, enhancing their skills and experience. This can be a significant advantage for career progression.
Community Impact: Pharmacists in regional areas often play a crucial role in their communities, providing essential healthcare services and building strong relationships with patients.
Work-Life Balance: Regional areas offer a more relaxed lifestyle, with less congestion and a closer connection to nature. This can lead to a better work-life balance and overall quality of life.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia: Workforce Capability Project Data
According to the Workforce Capability Project by The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, there is a high demand for Pharmacists in Australia, particularly in regional areas. The data presented in the table and graph below highlights the disparity between the number of available pharmacists and the demand in various regions.
Conclusion
The data from the Workforce Capability Project by The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, along with the initiatives under the 8CPA and increased visa options, clearly demonstrate that there are ample opportunities for pharmacists in Australia, especially in regional areas. By passing the KAPS/OPRA exam, overseas pharmacists can unlock these opportunities, enjoy professional growth, and make a meaningful impact in communities that need their expertise. Elite Expertise is here to guide you through the KAPS/OPRA exam preparation, ensuring you are well-equipped to seize these opportunities. Now is the perfect time to take the leap and pursue a rewarding pharmacy career in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pharmacy Career in Australia
Yes. While urban areas may seem saturated, there is a high demand for pharmacists in regional and rural areas. These locations offer job security, better salaries, and opportunities for career growth.
The KAPS/OPRA exam validates your qualifications and is required for registration in Australia. Passing it also improves your chances of securing skilled migration visas and employment opportunities.
The 8CPA has introduced initiatives such as expanded pharmacist roles, improved access to pharmacy services in regional areas, and increased funding. These changes enhance career opportunities and financial benefits for pharmacists.
Yes. Australia has expanded visa options, including Skilled Independent (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated (subclass 190), and employer-sponsored visas. Regional areas are prioritized, making it easier for overseas pharmacists to migrate and work.
Pharmacists in regional areas enjoy higher demand, broader responsibilities, professional growth, relocation benefits, and better work-life balance compared to those in urban centers.
Regional pharmacists often experience a lower cost of living, less congestion, closer ties with their communities, and a healthier work-life balance while making a meaningful impact on healthcare access.
The Workforce Capability Project highlights the high demand for pharmacists in regional areas, providing data that supports migration and employment opportunities for overseas-qualified pharmacists.
Elite Expertise provides structured coaching, mock tests, and expert guidance to help pharmacists pass the KAPS/OPRA exam and navigate migration, registration, and career opportunities in Australia.
