Cassandra Charlesworth

What is a community pharmacy?

Often known as a ‘chemist’, a community pharmacy provides medication, healthcare advice, and retail products to customers. It’s a key component of the pharmacy industry which also comprises hospital pharmacy and industrial pharmacy.

What is the outlook for the community pharmacy sector?

With an aging population and an increase in chronic diseases, community pharmacies provide an essential service for almost every town and city in Australia. As the first port of call for health concerns, there are 443.6 million individual patient visits to pharmacies each year, making it a key part of the healthcare sector.

What roles are available in community pharmacies?

There are a number of roles in community pharmacies, including:

• Pharmacists
- Who dispense medications, advise customers, and ensure patient safety.
• Pharmacy Technicians
- Who assists pharmacists with dispensing and customer service.
• Pharmacy Assistants
- Who helps with customer service, sales, and some dispensing tasks.

What is the role of a pharmacy assistant?

Pharmacy assistants work in customer service, process sales, and may assist with dispensing medications under pharmacist supervision.

What qualifications are required for pharmacy assistants?

Under the Quality Care Pharmacy Program (QCPP) a minimum S2/S3 certification is required to handle over-the-counter and pharmacist-only medications.

What is the role of a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy Technicians help pharmacists prepare and dispense medicines. In a community pharmacy, technicians are also often involved in customer service duties and provide medical advice to customers under the supervision of the pharmacist on duty.

How do I become a pharmacy technician?

To meet the requirements of the Pharmacy Board of Australia, a Cert IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary or SIRSS00012 Community Pharmacy Dispensary qualification is recommended.

Why should I consider a career in pharmacy?

Pharmacy careers offer:

• Flexible working hours.
• A mix of healthcare and customer service.
• Opportunities for career advancement.
• A stable and growing job market.

How can I enter the pharmacy industry?

An S2/S3 certification is a great way to get your foot in the door of the pharmacy industry. Completed online in as little as two days, this qualification does not require you to currently work in a community pharmacy and equips you to supply pharmacy medications and assist the pharmacist in the dispensary with the supply of pharmacist only medications.

What career pathways are available in the pharmacy industry?

You can progress from a pharmacy assistant to a senior role, become a pharmacy manager, or pursue further education to become a pharmacist. Other opportunities include hospital and industrial pharmacy roles.

Are there job opportunities in community pharmacies?

Yes, community pharmacies exist in cities, towns, and rural areas, ensuring employment opportunities nationwide.There are currently 39,900 pharmacy assistants and 6900 pharmacy technician positions in Australia, and the sector is growing.That said, it is a sought after part of the retail sector, with qualifications such as the S2/S3 allowing you to stand out from the crowd.

What skills are important for working in a pharmacy?

• Retail and customer service skills
• Attention to detail
• Empathy and discretion

How can I advance my pharmacy career?

Gain additional qualifications, such as the:
• Cert III in Community Pharmacy
• Cert IV in Community Pharmacy
• Cert IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary
Experience and training can also lead to leadership or specialised roles.

Learn more about pharmacy.

7th July 2025

Why choose a career in real estate?

Real estate is a dynamic industry offering varied roles, career progression, and potentially uncapped income. Whether you're passionate about sales, property management, or business ownership, real estate provides multiple paths and suits a wide demographic—from school-leavers to career changers.

What are the main career roles in real estate?

Sales Agent / Representative - Sourcing and selling property, handling inquiries, negotiating contractsProperty Manager - Managing rentals, tenant liaison, organising maintenanceAgency Principal - Running an agency, managing staff, compliance and operationsBusiness Broker - Valuing, marketing, and selling businesses, organising legal and financial aspects

What qualifications do I need to start in real estate?

To begin a career in real estate, you typically start with an entry-level certificate, which allows you to work under a licensed agent.From there, you can progress to higher qualifications like the Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice (CPP41419) and Diploma of Property (Agency Management).

How do I get real estate experience?

After gaining your entry-level certificate, you’ll work under a licensed agent assisting with open homes, buyer inquiries, and office administration. This hands-on experience is essential—and in some states, mandatory—for career progression.

Do I need a prior qualification to start?

No. You don’t need a previous academic background. Real estate training is designed to provide practical, job-ready skills from scratch.

What are the licensing requirements?

To apply for a real estate licence, you must:

• Hold the required qualification for your state or territory
• Be at least 18 years old
• Pass a criminal history check
• Have the right to work in Australia

Do I need to keep studying after becoming licensed?

Yes. Most states require agents to complete Continuing Professional Development (CPD) every year to stay current with legislation, technology, and best practice.

How do I choose the right training provider?

Look for:

• Trainers with real industry experience
• Flexible study options
• Career consultation services
• Nationally recognised qualifications
• Positive student reviews

What are the career opportunities in real estate?

Real estate offers various roles with the flexibility to grow and specialise:

• Sales Agent
• Auctioneer
• Property Manager
• Business Development Manager
• Agency Principal
• Business Broker
• Buyer’s Advocate

Many agents also move into related sectors like:

• Mortgage broking
• Property development
• Financial advising
• Conveyancing

Who is real estate suited to?

People who:

• Enjoy working with people and building relationships
• Are self-motivated and entrepreneurial
• Can work flexible hours (including weekends)
• Want to build a career with uncapped potential

How quickly can I start working?

With short, flexible courses, many students can begin working within weeks—without a HECS debt or long study commitments.

Learn more about real estate.

11th July 2025