TLA International - Australia
Pathway for UK Registered 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:
Please note : Hospital roles in Australia do not offer VISA internships with sponsorship. Our placements in Australia are exclusively within community pharmacies.
Important Note for Applicants:
Pharmacies are looking for candidates who are committed to staying with the pharmacy for a minimum of 2 years. Please only apply if you are ready to make a medium-term commitment.
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:
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, which 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.
o Option 1: 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.
o Option 2: 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.
o Option 3: 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 year.
- Estimated Cost: AU$5,000 (including exams, registration, and visa fees).
For the latest details, visit:
* Australian Pharmacy Council (APC):
* Pharmacy Board of Australia (AHPRA):
Salaries/Pay information
For details on salaries for Pharmacist Interns and Registered Pharmacists in Australia, please refer to the Fair Work Pharmacy Pay Guide:
Click Here for the Pay Guide
Salaries are negotiable based on experience, and accommodation support is often provided in addition to salaries, particularly for rural or remote locations.
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.
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.
Priceline Pharmacy – A hybrid between beauty, wellness, and pharmacy services.
TerryWhite Chemmart – Focused on clinical services, offering vaccinations, health checks, medication reviews, and chronic disease management.
There are smaller banners and Independent Pharmacies. Many pharmacists in Australia choose to own and operate independent pharmacies, providing tailored healthcare services.
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