Pharmacy Assistant Courses
A Pharmacy Assistant helps customers, processes sales, manages stock, and supports pharmacists, requiring good communication, organisation, and product knowledge.
AI Exposure
Low
Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Pharmacy Assistant
Get qualified to work as a Pharmacy Assistant with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
SIR30116
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
A Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116 is for students needing the practical skills to work in a pharmacy as a retail assistant. Students graduate knowing how to assist customers with a range of products: skin and anti-fungal; cough and cold relief; analgesic and anti-inflammatory; gastro-intestinal conditions; allergy relief; as well as support the on-site pharmacist.
The Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Re...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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SIR40216
Duration
4 months - 12 months
Study mode
On Campus, Online, Traineeship
The SIR40216 Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary is the course you need to work at the chemist or drugstore dispensing prescriptions under a qualified pharmacist. Over 12 months of study you will learn how to assist customers with their prescriptions and accurately dispense pharmacy-only medicines. The course also covers infection controls, retail skills, and customer service.
Enquire now for the list of study units, graduation outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates.
Career opportunities
Duration
4 months - 12 months
Study mode
On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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HLTSS00064
Study mode
On Campus, Online
The HLTSS00064 Infection Control Skill Set is a nationally recognised training course for anyone committed to a safer community and workplace. Over 30 days of training you will learn how to identify infection hazards, assess the risks to health, and take action to reduce viral transmission. The course also covers: using PPE, personal hygiene, cleaning and sanitation, waste disposal. It’s ideal for anyone working in aged care, community service, healthcare, hospitality, food preparation, and housekeeping.
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Career opportunities
Study mode
On Campus, Online
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SIR20116
Duration
4 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
A Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 is for students wanting careers as Pharmacy Assistants. This qualification focuses heavily on the retail skills required to work in a pharmacy but also teaches students about the laws and Pharmacy Board of Australia Guidelines for supplying scheduled medicines.
Note: to complete this qualification students must complete 40-80 hours work placement at a pharmacy.
The Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 is a nationally recognised training qualificati...
Career opportunities
Duration
4 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Pharmacy Assistant.
Common questions
How much does a Pharmacy Assistant earn?
In Australia, a full time Pharmacy Assistant generally earns $960 per week ($49,920 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Pharmacy Assistant?
This industry has seen a drop in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 37,900 people working as a Pharmacy Assistant in Australia compared to 42,400 five years ago. Pharmacy Assistants may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Pharmacy Assistant?
A Certificate II in Community Pharmacy is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Pharmacy Assistant. You’ll cover topics including legislation and guidelines for supplying scheduled medicines as well as retail sales. You could also consider a Certificate III in Community Pharmacy.
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More information
A Pharmacy Assistant performs a range of duties at a pharmacy. You might help customers with enquiries and advice and process retail sales. Pharmacy Assistants also receive prescriptions and consult with pharmacists when required. You may also monitor stock levels and create promotional displays.
Pharmacy Assistants should be organised and able to prioritise their tasks. Good customer service skills are essential and you’ll need to be a good communicator. Pharmacy Assistants should have a strong understanding of pharmacy laws and a good knowledge of pharmaceutical products.
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