All careers

Pharmacy Courses in Newport

Physiotherapy
Podiatry

Pharmacy courses in Newport

Career Pathfinder

Skills shortages + AI Exposure

Discover in-demand careers and understand how each role may be impacted by AI and automation.

A tool for students to:
  • See in-demand occupations across Australia
  • Check AI Exposure ratings
  • Compare training duration and average income

Common questions

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?

Author Image Cassandra Charlesworth

Further reading

Career Pathways for Graduates After Studying a Diploma of Nursing and a Bachelor of Nursing

4th October 2024

Most popular health courses

29th June 2022

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

More about Pharmacy courses

If you're looking to embark on a rewarding career in the pharmacy field, Newport, located in the vibrant western suburbs of Melbourne, offers a variety of pharmacy courses tailored to meet your needs. With a strong local presence of esteemed training providers, including The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, ACOD, and local universities such as Monash University, students can receive quality training to kick-start their careers. Explore the various options available, whether it’s the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy or the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), and take the first step towards a fulfilling profession.

The pharmacy sector encompasses numerous specialisations, with roles like Medical Technician, Massage therapist, and Pharmacy Assistant readily accessible upon completing the right training. Students in Newport can enhance their qualifications through courses in Medical Technician, Massage, and other health-related fields. Enrolling in these courses offers a gateway to diverse health services, empowering students to contribute significantly to their communities.

Newport's dynamic pharmacy education landscape features several notable providers such as RMIT University and Deakin University, which offer comprehensive degrees and diplomas in pharmaceutical sciences. These institutions not only provide theoretical knowledge but also practical experience, ensuring graduates are job-ready in both local and national health sectors. With options like the Diploma of Clinical Aromatherapy available through MCOHB, there is something to suit a range of interests and career aspirations.

Studying pharmacy in Newport also allows students to discover interconnected fields, such as Alternative Health and Holistic Medicine and Naturopathy. By diversifying their skillsets, students can stand out in the job market, accessing various roles in health care that require a blend of knowledge and practical expertise. Local training providers are committed to facilitating this broad educational journey, offering tailored courses that align with both student interests and industry demands.

In conclusion, Newport’s pharmacy courses not only provide accredited credentials but also pave the way for numerous employment opportunities in the health and pharmacy sectors. With a solid network of training organisations ready to assist you in your educational journey, you can feel confident in making informed choices about your future career. Visit the Pharmacy Courses in Newport page to discover the full range of courses available and take a proactive step toward a rewarding and impactful career in pharmacy.