So, you have achieved it! All those all-nighters you pulled got you through. You have finally passed OPRA exam. Now the dream of practicing as an intern pharmacist in Australia is your reality. We know you might be thinking now “how do I land that right internship opportunity?” Don’t worry, we will help you.
In this blog you will learn about securing an internship in Australia. The steps you need to take and the preparation you need. Let’s make your journey to Australia smoother than ever.
Understanding the OPRA Pathway
The OPRA exam is the first big step for international pharmacists who want to work in Australia. Passing it shows you have the knowledge and skills needed for safe pharmacy practice here.
But passing the exam is not the end. To get general registration with AHPRA, you must complete a supervised internship in an Australian pharmacy and then pass the intern pharmacist written and oral exam.
This is the role of intern pharmacists.
What Is a Pharmacy Internship in Australia?
A pharmacy internship in Australia is a program where you work in a real pharmacy. It helps you use your knowledge in practice.
During your internship, you will:
- Get hands on experience in community and hospital pharmacies
- Learn about the Australian pharmacy laws, ethics, and standards
- You will improve communication skills with patients and healthcare teams
- Complete supervised hours and required assessments
The internship usually lasts 1,575 hours, which is about 12 months full-time. After that, you can apply for general registration.
For international pharmacists, this internship is more than just completing hours. It helps you understand how pharmacy works in Australia and makes you confident for your future career.
How to Secure an Internship After OPRA
Finding the right internship can feel overwhelming. Especially if you are moving from another country. Here is a step-by-step guide that will help you become a pharmacy intern:
1. Prepare Your Documents
Before applying you need to make sure you have:
- Your OPRA pass certificate
- Proof of English proficiency
- An updated CV
- If you have worked before, you can use your references from previous employers as proof.
2. Identify Internship Providers
In Australia, pharmacy internships are offered by:
- Community pharmacies – There are large chains like Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, and independent pharmacies
- Hospital pharmacies – There are state hospitals often have structured intern programs
- Specialty pharmacies – Focused on areas like oncology, compounding, or pediatrics
3. Apply Early and Strategically
As you may know internship positions can be competitive.
You need to start looking for them early.
Make sure you customize your CV and cover letter for each application.
4. Prepare for Interviews
Australian pharmacy employers look for:
- Clinical knowledge and problem-solving ability.
- Communication and patient counselling skills.
- Understanding of pharmacy regulations.
- Enthusiasm for learning and growing.
Practicing common interview questions. Role-play scenarios can make a big difference.
Maximizing Your Internship Experience
Once you secure your internship, it’s time to make the most of it. Here’s how:
- Be proactive: Volunteer for new tasks and ask questions
- Document your progress: Keep detailed notes on procedures, patient interactions, and clinical decisions
- Seek feedback: Regular feedback from your supervisor will help you improve and meet AHPRA requirements
- Build your network: Connect with colleagues, other interns, and mentors—these relationships can lead to future job opportunities
Remember, your internship is not just about ticking boxes it’s your stepping stone to becoming a fully registered pharmacist in Australia.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Transitioning to the Australian pharmacy system can come with challenges:
- Cultural differences: Patient interactions may differ from your home country. Observe, learn, and adapt.
- Regulatory compliance: Learn local pharmacy laws early to avoid mistakes.
- Workload management: Intern pharmacists often balance patient care, dispensing, and administrative tasks. Time management is key.
With preparation, resilience, and a willingness to learn, these challenges can be turned into valuable learning experiences.
Find Your Pharmacy Internship with Jobslly
Searching for the right internship can feel overwhelming, especially in a new country. That’s where Jobslly comes in. Jobslly is a dedicated job platform connecting pharmacists with internship opportunities across Australia from community pharmacies to hospitals.
Here’s why Jobslly is perfect for international pharmacists:
- Curated opportunities: Only verified internships relevant to OPRA-qualified pharmacists
- Easy search & apply: Filter by location, specialty, or pharmacy type
- Stay updated: Get alerts for new internship postings so you never miss an opening
- Support & guidance: Resources to help you craft your CV, prepare for interviews, and navigate Australian pharmacy regulations
Instead of spending hours hunting multiple websites, you can explore all available internships in one place. With JOBSLLY, your dream of starting as a pharmacy intern in Australia is just a few clicks away.
Take the first step in your Australian pharmacy journey sign up on Jobslly today and find the perfect internship for you!
Final Tips for Success
- Start looking for internships early and keep your documents organized.
- Clearly mention your OPRA result and your international pharmacy experience in your CV.
- Be open to learning new things. Stay curious and take initiative.
- Connect with Australian pharmacists and professional associations. Networking can help you find better opportunities.
- Think of your internship as the start of your career, not just something you must complete.
If you finish your internship successfully. You can apply for full registration. This will allow you to work as a registered pharmacist in Australia with confidence.
Australia provides a supportive and rewarding environment for international pharmacists who are ready to grow. After passing OPRA, the right internship can change your career and help you move forward professionally.
Your journey as a pharmacy intern begins now. Take the next step and start exploring internship opportunities today.