Pharmacists play a crucial role in Australia’s healthcare system, ensuring the safe and effective use of medicines while providing essential care to patients. For overseas-trained professionals, how to become a pharmacist in Australia involves meeting strict requirements, including completing an accredited pharmacy degree, passing the OPRA Exam Australia, undergoing supervised training, and clearing the Australian Intern Written and Oral exams. Additionally, English proficiency and registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia are required before practicing.
Pharmacists in Australia work across diverse settings, including hospitals, community pharmacies, research facilities, and the pharmaceutical industry, where their responsibilities range from dispensing medications and conducting patient consultations to advancing drug development and ensuring the safety of medications.
Salary Overview for Pharmacists in Australia
The average pharmacist’s salary in Australia is approximately $88,483 per year, which translates to around $56.91 per hour. This competitive wage makes pharmacy an attractive career option within the healthcare field.
- Monthly average pay: $7,373
- Weekly average pay: $1,700
Pharmacists in large metropolitan areas, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, generally earn higher salaries compared to those in regional or rural areas. Internationally, the average wage for Australian pharmacists is higher than in countries like the UK, Canada, and Germany.
Factors Affecting Pharmacist Salaries
Several elements influence how much pharmacists earn in Australia:
- Location: Urban centers with higher living costs offer better pay.
- Experience: Salaries rise with years of practice and specialized expertise.
- Qualifications: Advanced studies, such as a master’s degree, can lead to increased earnings.
- Industry: Hospital, research, and pharmaceutical industry roles typically pay more than community pharmacy.
- Demand: Areas with higher demand for healthcare professionals often provide competitive wages.
Highest-Paying Cities for Pharmacists
| City | Average Hourly Wage (AUD) | Estimated Annual Salary Range (AUD) |
| Gold Coast | $66.35 | $109,000 – $112,000 |
| Brisbane | $62.70 | $104,000 – $110,000 |
| Mackay | $61.94 | $103,000 – $108,000 |
| Perth | $55.71 | $95,000 – $105,000 |
| Canberra | $55.38 | $94,000 – $111,746 |
Salaries by Role and Experience
Pharmacist wages also vary depending on the role:
- Entry-level pharmacists: Around $46.39 per hour
- Experienced licensed pharmacists: $56.91 per hour or more
- Hospital and clinical pharmacists Generally earn more than those in community pharmacies
- Research, development, and managerial roles: Can exceed $100,000 annually
As pharmacists progress into leadership or specialized roles, their salaries increase in tandem with their responsibilities.
Career Development and Growth
Career progression plays a significant role in determining the long-term salary of pharmacists in Australia.
- Entry-level roles start near $80,000 annually
- With experience and advanced qualifications, earnings often rise above $100,000–$120,000 annually
- Moving into managerial, research, or industry-based positions brings greater financial rewards
For overseas professionals seeking to become pharmacists in Australia, focusing on continuous professional development, passing the OPRA Exam Australia, and pursuing higher qualifications can open doors to better-paying roles and long-term career satisfaction.
Also Read: How to Land Your Pharmacy Internship in Australia After OPRA Exams
Conclusion
Pharmacists in Australia enjoy a stable and rewarding career, with average hourly salaries of around $56.91 and annual earnings ranging from $80,000 to $120,000, depending on location, experience, and specialization.
To practice as a pharmacist, overseas graduates must complete a pharmacy degree, pass the OPRA Exam Australia, fulfill supervised training, meet English proficiency standards, and register with the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
By advancing their skills and pursuing leadership or specialized roles, pharmacists can significantly enhance both their salaries and career opportunities in one of the world’s most respected healthcare systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a pharmacist in Australia, overseas-trained professionals must complete an accredited pharmacy degree, pass the OPRA Exam Australia, undertake supervised training, clear the Intern Written and Oral exams, meet English language requirements, and register with the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
The OPRA Exam Australia (Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment) is designed to assess whether overseas pharmacists possess the knowledge and skills required to meet Australian healthcare standards. Passing this exam is a mandatory step in the process of how to become a pharmacist in Australia.
The average pharmacist’s salary in Australia is around $88,000 per year or $56.91 per hour. Salaries vary by city, experience, and sector, with metropolitan areas such as Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Canberra offering some of the highest pay rates.
Yes. English proficiency is mandatory for all overseas-trained pharmacists. Candidates must pass a recognized English test, such as IELTS or OET, before registering with the Pharmacy Board. This is a crucial step in how to become a pharmacist in Australia.
According to recent salary data, the highest-paying cities for pharmacists include Gold Coast, Brisbane, Mackay, Perth, and Canberra. Hourly wages range from $55 to $66, with annual salaries reaching up to $112,000 depending on location and demand.