Australia is the land of dreams. Many people migrate to Australia in need of a better salary, standard of living and career growth. The good news for pharmacists is that healthcare jobs are in high demand in Australia. If you are a pharmacist and want better opportunities, Australia would be a move worth making.
Most pharmacists in India struggle with a lot of issues. Most are dissatisfied with their jobs due to the lack of career flexibility, low salaries, and long working hours. Fortunately, Australia has a rising demand for pharmacists and even overseas-trained pharmacists like Indian pharmacists can seek registration to practise in Australia.
For Indian pharmacists looking to migrate to Australia, the process involves several steps that ensure qualifications align with Australian standards and legal requirements. Let us break down the essential steps to help you navigate the path to becoming a pharmacist in the land Down Under.
Why Pharmacy in Australia?
There are numerous reasons why pharmacists from different parts of the world choose Australia as their career destination. Australia has:
- An environment that embraces diverse cultures
- A world-class healthcare system
- A community that provides ample career opportunities to learn and grow
- Breathtaking scenic beauty
- Opportunity of permanent residency for international pharmacists
- A high paying career
Overview of Pharmacists Salary in Australia
| Experience Level | Salary (AUD) | Salary (INR) |
| Fresh Graduate (0–2 yrs) | AUD 65k – 80k | ₹36.9 lacs – ₹45.5 lacs |
| Mid-level (3–7 yrs) | AUD 80k – 100k | ₹45.5 lacs – ₹56.9 lacs |
| Experienced (8+ yrs) | AUD 100k – 120k+ | ₹56.9 lacs – ₹68.3 lacs+ |
Australia's rewarding career opportunities have constantly enticed students and professionals across the globe.
Australia has an acute shortage of pharmacists, and the government is actively inviting skilled overseas-pharmacists to fulfil the growing need. Pharmacy is a top profession in the country and a lucrative career option.
However, to become a registered pharmacist in Australia, you need to have a clear idea of the process and requirements.
Steps to Migrate to Australia
Step 1: Initial Skills Assessment
The authorised body for this is the Australian Pharmacy Council or APC.
- Have your qualifications and skills assessed by the APC
- Submit your academic and professional credentials for evaluation.
- They ensure that your qualification meets Australian standards.
Documents required:
- B Pharm or Pharm D degree or provisional degree
- Academic transcripts
- Pharmacist registration license of home country
- Passport
- Working experience, if any
Application Process
- Create a candidate account on the APC Portal
- Make your profile with accurate personal information.
- Submit a Skills Assessment Eligibility Check request.
- Upload your documents:
- Pay the fee through a credit or debit card.
Always review your documents carefully to avoid mistakes and incomplete document submission.
Step 2: Appear for the OPRA exam
The Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) exam is an Australian Licensing process for international pharmacists who wish to work in Australia. Through this, the APC assesses the candidates on the basis of their educational qualifications.
OPRA Exam Particulars
- Duration of Exam: 2.5 Hrs
- Number of Questions: 120
- Mode of Exam: CAT MCQ (Online)
- Exam Fee: $2190 AUD (INR 120,450)
- Test Center: Worldwide
Application Process
- Apply for the eligibility check.
- Once approved, register via the APC portal for the upcoming test window.
- Book your preferred test center
- Track your exam status and download the admission ticket via the APC portal.
Step 3: English Requirements for Registration with AHPRA as an Overseas Qualified Pharmacist.
English language proficiency is a non-negotiable aspect of the migration process.
You will need to demonstrate proficiency in English by taking an approved English language test such as:
- IELTS Academic Score of at least 7.0 overall
- PTE- 66 Overall
- TOEFL iBT- Overall score of 96
- OET: Minimum score of 7 in each section
An interesting thing to note is many find PTE easier than the IELTS.
Step 4: Apply for Provisional Registration as a Pharmacist with AHPRA
Once you have a positive skills assessment and have met the English language requirements, you need to apply for registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
Each state in Australia has its own pharmacy board. You may need to apply to the board in the state where you intend to work.
For this, you can register through the AHPRA website,
This process involves submitting your
- Skills assessment (OPRA pass result)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Passport
And any other necessary documents they might ask for.
Step 5: Visa options for Pharmacists in Australia after the OPRA exam
As soon as you have passed the OPRA exam and met the English proficiency requirements, you will have several options. You may apply for a General Skilled Migration Visa. This will help you get to Australia and start your internship which is required for a full registration.
For pharmacists, there are a total of 5 Visa types that can be your gateway to enter Australia.
- General Skilled Migration Visa under Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa),
- Subclass 491 (Regional Sponsored Visa),
- Subclass 482 (Temporary Skilled Shortage Visa),
- Subclass 494 (Skilled employer-sponsored Regional Visa), and
- Subclass 407 (Training visa).
You may speak with any registered migration agent for further information on which Visa is best for you.
Step 6: Internship or Supervised Practice
An important part of your journey to become a licensed pharmacist in Australia is the completion of the supervised practice period.
You need to complete 1575 hrs of supervised practice to be eligible for full registration.
Requirements for an Intern Pharmacist
There are a few prerequisites for becoming an intern pharmacist
- A valid pharmacy degree
- Provisional Registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia
- Approval for supervised practice- premises and supervisor
- Acceptance into the Intern Training Program
Apart from this, candidates also need to present insurance proof, English language proficiency, and a character certificate.
Process
Before you can start the application process, you will need to check your eligibility for the role. Once you are deemed eligible, you can start the process.
- Get your provisional registration.
- Get admitted into the Intern Training Program.
- Select your internship practice, and apply for approval.
- Get the approval and start your supervised internship.
Training Programs for Intern Pharmacists
There are several accredited internship training programs (ITPs) where intern pharmacists can enrol to complete their internship period. These programs are all recognized by the Pharmacy Board of Australia. We have listed a few providers of ITP here for you:
- Monash University
- The University of Queensland
- The University of Sydney
- Australasian College of Pharmacy
- University of South Australia
- Pharmaceutical Society of Australia
Step 7: Clear the Intern Written Exam and Oral Exam
The aim of a pharmacy internship is to become eligible for full registration as a pharmacist with the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
During the internship period, you will be assessed for readiness to be an independent pharmacist. Once you have completed 75% of your required internship hours, you can take your intern’s assessment test. These are divided into two parts, Intern Written and Oral Exam:
- Intern Written Exam
- Restricted open-book exam
- Computer-based
- Conducted at approved test centres
- Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours).
- Oral Assessment
You would need to register for the Intern Written Exam and select your time and venue for it.
The oral exam is your final assessment. Once you pass, you can:
- Complete remaining supervised practice hours.
- Finalise ITP requirements.
- Submit your general registration application.
- Wait for confirmation of your pharmacist registration number.
Most candidates become fully registered shortly after completing all requirements.
Step 8: Job Search and Networking
Depending on the visa type, you may need to secure a job offer in Australia before applying. The job market for pharmacists in Australia is excellent. More opportunities are found in the rural areas. They often come with added incentives, bonuses, etc.
Actively participate in the job search process online and offline. Network within the Australian healthcare community. It can significantly enhance your chances of finding suitable employment.
Step 9: General Registration with AHPRA
Once you have completed your internship hours and passed your oral exam, you can go for your full general registration. This will give you the freedom to practise independently as a pharmacist in Australia.
Migrate To Australia and Start Your Pharmacy Career
The path to becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia as an overseas pharmacist is very rewarding. The process has been much simplified over the years with many government incentives.
A career as a pharmacist is both fulfilling and rewarding. The high salaries, great infrastructure, and lifestyle all make Australia the place to be.
If you’re looking to make a move to Australia, this is the right time.
Enroll into our OPRA Exam Preparation Course and clear the licensure exam in your first attempt. Fulfill your dream of becoming a pharmacist in Australia with Academically today.
Reach out to us anytime for any guidance or doubts regarding the migration process to Australia, the OPRA exam or even if you simply want to explore your options.
