Potential for Pharmacists in Australia
- According to the data released by the Labour Market Insight, by 2026, the pharmacist field is expected to grow by 9%, offering promising job opportunities.
- Most pharmacists work in retail trade, which includes community pharmacies, making up 70.3% of the workforce.
- Owing to the deficit of pharmacy workers, Australia currently needs 2448 more full-time equivalent pharmacists to meet the demand.
- In 2022, there were 31,720 registered pharmacists, but this number is on a decline.
- Around 80% of registered pharmacists are actively practising, mainly in community pharmacies and hospitals.
- Most pharmacists (70%) live in capital cities, which is higher than the average job distribution.
Average Annual Salary of Pharmacists in Australia Based on Experience
Understanding the salary ranges for pharmacists in Australia can provide valuable insight into the earning potential at different stages of their careers. Typically, entry-level pharmacists with 1 to 2 years of experience can expect to earn a certain range, while mid-level pharmacists with 3 to 5 years of experience see an increase in their salary bracket. Experienced pharmacists, with 6 or more years under their belt, tend to command the highest salaries, reflecting their expertise and contribution to the profession.
Entry-Level Pharmacists (1-2 years of experience)
- Salary Range: $61,956 - $64,480 AUD per year.
- These pharmacists are relatively new to the field, having gained 1 to 2 years of experience.
- They typically handle basic pharmacy duties under supervision and may be in the process of building their skills and knowledge.
Mid-Level Pharmacists (3-5 years of experience)
- Salary Range: $65,125 - $80,000 AUD per year.
- Pharmacists in this category have gained 3 to 5 years of experience.
- They are likely to have a solid grasp of pharmacy practices and may take on more responsibility in their roles, such as supervising junior staff or managing inventory.
Experienced Pharmacists (6+ years of experience)
- Salary Range: $91,000 - $114,000 AUD per year.
- These pharmacists have accumulated 6 or more years of experience in the field.
- They are often sought after for their expertise and may take on leadership roles within their workplace, such as pharmacy managers or clinical specialists.
Understanding these salary ranges can help pharmacists gauge their earning potential as they progress in their careers and may also inform individuals considering entering the field about the financial rewards it offers.
Top Pharmacist Job Roles and their Salaries
Job Roles | Salary in INR | Salary in AUD |
| Research Scientist | ₹7,705,556 | $145,912 |
| Consultant Pharmacist | ₹7,293,905 | $138,117 |
| Pharmacist Manager | ₹6,601,201 | $125,000 |
| Oncology Pharmacist | ₹6,218,860 | $117,760 |
| Operational Pharmacist | ₹5,809,057 | $110,000 |
| Hospital Pharmacist | ₹5,581,923 | $105,699 |
| Emergency Department Pharmacist | ₹5,756,511 | $109,005 |
| Quality Pharmacist | ₹4,672,752 | $88,483 |
| Clinical Trial Pharmacist | ₹4,488,817 | $85,000 |
Factors Influencing Pharmacists Salary in Australia
Several factors influence the salary of pharmacists in Australia.
Experience: Like most professions, experience plays a significant role in determining salary. Newly graduated pharmacists typically earn less than their experienced counterparts.
Location: Geographical location significantly impacts earning potential. Pharmacists working in metropolitan areas, where living costs are higher, generally command higher salaries compared to those in rural or remote areas.
Sector: Pharmacists employed in different sectors may have varying salary structures. For instance, hospital pharmacists might earn differently from community pharmacists due to differences in responsibilities and working conditions.
Qualifications and Specialisations: Pharmacists with additional qualifications or specialisations, such as clinical pharmacy or research, may earn higher salaries than those with basic qualifications.
Work Hours and Overtime: Pharmacists working irregular hours or overtime may receive additional compensation, impacting their overall earnings.
How to Become a Registered Pharmacist in Australia?
After reading all about the heavy Australian dollars in the pockets of pharmacists, you may be wondering how you can become one among them, right?
Well, Academically can help you turn that fantasy into a reality. As a pharmacist outside of Australia, you can take the KAPS exam and become a registered pharmacist there. For more information, visit academically.com
Also read: Becoming a Pharmacist in Australia
Conclusion
Pharmacy remains a rewarding and respected profession in Australia, offering competitive salaries and diverse career pathways. While salaries vary based on factors such as experience, location, and sector, pharmacists can expect stable employment opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact on patient care. Aspiring pharmacists should consider these factors when planning their career paths, ensuring they are well-equipped for success in this vital healthcare role.
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