Learn the complete process to become a community pharmacist in Australia, from initial skills assessment to KAPS/OPRA exam preparation, and explore the rewarding career opportunities in this field.
Arief Mohammad
Introduction
Pharmacy is a booming profession and a lucrative pathway to migrate to Australia. Most pharmacists in Australia practice within the community as retailers or work in hospitals. The domain of pharmacy provides a plethora of career opportunities ranging from patient care to research and development. This field gives you the opportunity to know about and participate in the innovation of drugs. It provides ample opportunities in both academia and industry, along with the chance to earn a stable income in your homeland and abroad.
Today, we will talk in detail about the complete process of becoming a community pharmacist in Australia and the best options to do that.
Who Are Community Pharmacists?
Community pharmacists in Australia are highly trained and trusted professionals, often holding a Bachelor of Pharmacy or a Master of Pharmacy degree. They are qualified to dispense medications, have the required knowledge about most medicines, and are capable of counselling healthcare professionals, patients, and other people on key responsibilities such as processing prescriptions, maintaining patient medication records, and promoting primary healthcare. The Pharmacy Board of Australia oversees the registration and regulation of pharmacists, ensuring that they meet stringent standards of competence and ethical practice.
Functions of Community Pharmacists
Dispensing Medication
Community pharmacists dispense prescription and over-the-counter medications with precision and care, providing essential information to patients regarding proper usage and potential side effects. They collaborate closely with doctors to ensure patients get the appropriate medications in the right doses.
Over The Counter (OTC) Medications
Retail pharmacies are stocked with a wide array of over-the-counter medications, allowing individuals to address minor ailments without the need for a prescription. Pharmacists provide guidance on the proper use of these medications and potential interactions.
Health Advice and Consultations
Community pharmacists are trusted sources of health information. Whether it’s advice on managing chronic conditions, addressing common ailments, or promoting general wellness, pharmacists are readily available for consultations. They also contribute to public health education by providing information on vaccinations, disease prevention, and health promotion.
Collaborative Care
Community pharmacists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as general practitioners and specialists, to ensure seamless patient care and effective communication across the healthcare spectrum.
Salary of Community Pharmacists in Australia
The average salary of a pharmacist in Australia is $92,793 annually or $47.59 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $81,953 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $120,045 per year.
Why Australia is a Perfect Destination for Community Pharmacists?
Great Career Flexibility
Pharmacists in Australia enjoy great career flexibility and are not required to work long hours, unlike in other countries. They are generally said to have an outstanding work-life balance.
Technological Advances
Practicing pharmacy in Australia means exposure to incredible technological advances, such as automated dispensing systems and electronic health records.
Increasing Demand for Services
As the role of pharmacists expands, there is a growing demand for additional services, including vaccination clinics, health screenings, and medication reviews. This scenario opens up great career opportunities for overseas-trained pharmacists in Australia.
Evolving Role of Community Pharmacists
In recent years, the role of community pharmacists in Australia has evolved to meet the changing needs of the population and the healthcare landscape. Some notable trends include:
Expanded Clinical Services
Community pharmacists are increasingly providing a wider range of clinical services, such as health checks, medication management reviews, and chronic disease management.
Integration of Technology
Pharmacists are incorporating digital solutions to streamline processes, reinforce patient care, and improve communication with other healthcare providers.
Health Promotion Initiatives
Recognizing the importance of preventive healthcare, community pharmacists actively participate in health promotion initiatives, including vaccination campaigns and public awareness programs.
Process to Become a Community Pharmacist in Australia
Step 1: Initial Skills Assessment
Authorization Body: Australian Pharmacy Council
Documents Required:
Step 2: KAPS Exam (Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences)
The KAPS Exam covers the following four domains from the National Competency Standards Framework for Pharmacists in Australia 2010:
There are two papers for each KAPS Exam:
The types of questions in the examination may either be stand-alone or be associated with a patient profile.
OPRA™ (Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment)
OPRA Exam content is as below:
KAPS/OPRA Exam Results:
- Approximately eight weeks after the KAPS/OPRA exam, you or your nominated agent will receive an email from the Australian Pharmacy Council about when you can view/download your exam results in your Candidate Portal.
- If you pass the KAPS/OPRA exam, you will also receive a copy of the APC Skill Assessment letter at your email address.
Step 3: English Requirements for Registration with AHPRA
There are multiple test types that you can take to qualify and prove your English proficiency and get registered with AHPRA:
- IELTS: Minimum overall score of 7 and a minimum score of 7 in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum total score of 94 and minimum scores of 24 for listening, 24 for reading, 27 for writing, and 23 for speaking.
- OET: A minimum score of B or 350 in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).
- PTE: An overall score of 65 and a minimum score of 65 in each of the four communicative skills (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).
Step 4: Visa Options After KAPS/OPRA Exam
Once you are registered as a pharmacist to practice in Australia, you will have several options:
You may speak with any registered migration agent for further information on which visa is best for you.
KAPS Exam Preparation
Clearing the KAPS/OPRA exam is the most important part of the process. When you have the ability and skills to clear the exam, no one can stop you from getting the visa of your choice in Australia.
To help students clear the KAPS/OPRA exam on the first go, we have launched the unique KAPS/OPRA Exam Preparation Course, which is entirely online. With this, you can prepare for and then take the KAPS/OPRA exam in your home country and then migrate to Australia with a PR visa in your hand!
Opportunities for Community Pharmacists in Australia
Community pharmacists in Australia have numerous job prospects and opportunities for career growth. The demand for pharmacy services is increasing, leading to better job security and higher salaries.
Challenges Faced by Community Pharmacists
While the profession offers many rewards, community pharmacists also face challenges such as maintaining a work-life balance and navigating regulatory requirements. Continuous education and staying updated with the latest advancements in pharmacy are essential.
Technological Advances in Community Pharmacy
Community pharmacies in Australia are at the forefront of technological advances, using automated dispensing systems and electronic health records to enhance patient care and streamline operations.
Health Promotion and Public Health Initiatives
Community pharmacists play a vital role in health promotion and public health initiatives. They actively participate in vaccination campaigns, disease prevention programs, and public awareness efforts to improve community health outcomes.
Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals
Community pharmacists often work closely with other healthcare professionals, including doctors, specialists, and nurses, to provide comprehensive care to patients. This collaboration ensures that patients receive the best possible treatment and care.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
Pharmacists in Australia are required to engage in continuing professional development (CPD) to maintain their registration. This includes attending courses, workshops, and conferences to stay updated with the latest developments in pharmacy practice.
Future Trends in Community Pharmacy
The future of community pharmacy in Australia is promising, with trends such as personalized medicine and tele pharmacy gaining traction. These advancements will further enhance the role of pharmacists in patient care and healthcare delivery.
What qualifications are needed to become a community pharmacist in Australia?
To become a community pharmacist in Australia, you need a Bachelor of Pharmacy or a Master of Pharmacy degree and must pass the KAPS/OPRA exam.
How much does a community pharmacist earn in Australia?
The average salary of a community pharmacist in Australia is $92,793 annually, with entry-level positions starting at $81,953 per year and experienced pharmacists earning up to $120,045 per year.
What is the KAPS exam?
The KAPS exam (Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences) is a test that assesses the knowledge of overseas-trained pharmacists in four key domains: pharmaceutics, therapeutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, and pharmacology and physiology.
Conclusion
Pursuing a career as a community pharmacist in Australia is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. From the initial skills assessment to passing the KAPS/OPRA exam and meeting the English language requirements, each step brings you closer to a promising career in a dynamic and evolving field. With excellent career prospects, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on public health, becoming a community pharmacist in Australia is a decision that promises both professional and personal satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pharmacist Registration & OPRA Exam
To register with AHPRA, pharmacists must meet the English language requirements, which can be demonstrated by achieving the necessary scores in IELTS, PTE, OET, or TOEFL iBT.
Pharmacists can apply for various visas, including the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), Regional Sponsored Visa (Subclass 491), Temporary Skilled Shortage Visa (Subclass 482), Skilled Employer-sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494), and Training Visa (Subclass 407).
To prepare for the KAPS/OPRA exam, you can enroll in online preparation courses, review study materials, and practice with sample questions to enhance your knowledge and test-taking skills.
The Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Assessment (OPRA) exam is conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) to assess the knowledge and skills of internationally qualified pharmacists. Passing it is a key step toward becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia.
The OPRA exam is usually held twice a year. Exact dates are announced by the APC well in advance, so candidates can plan their preparation accordingly.
Yes. Online courses are available worldwide and include recorded lectures, downloadable notes, case-based learning, and interactive doubt-clearing sessions.
Your OPRA exam result remains valid for three years from the date of announcement.
After passing, you must request your Skills Assessment Outcome, apply for a visa, gain provisional registration with AHPRA, complete supervised practice, pass the intern exams, and meet English language proficiency requirements.
You can work in Australia if you have a valid visa allowing employment, but you must complete the registration process before practicing as a pharmacist.
You can log in to the APC Candidate Portal using your registered email ID and password. The result will indicate whether you passed or failed. APC does not provide score breakdowns or feedback.
