All careers

Pharmacy Courses in Willawong

Physiotherapy
Podiatry

Pharmacy courses in Willawong

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 interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy, you're in the right place. Willawong, located in Queensland, Australia, offers a variety of Pharmacy Courses tailored to meet the needs of beginners and experienced learners alike. With a total of 23 courses available, aspiring students have ample opportunity to obtain qualifications that will serve them well in the healthcare field. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to advance your career, Willawong has something to offer.

For those new to the field, beginner courses such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy (SIR20116) and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (SIR30116) provide foundational knowledge and skills. Additionally, the Certificate III in Retail (SIR30216) is perfect for those looking to develop their customer service and retail skills within a pharmacy context. Pursuing these courses from local training providers such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia or ACOD can enhance your learning experience through face-to-face interactions.

If you are an experienced learner, Willawong and its surrounding areas offer advanced courses that cater to your career aspirations. Popular options include the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary (SIR40216) and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice (10737NAT). Those seeking higher education can look into Griffith University, which offers the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), promising an in-depth exploration of the field. With 20 advanced courses available, students can choose a pathway that suits their career goals.

Apart from these courses, Willawong also features several other relevant study areas aimed at broadening your expertise. Explore options in Medicine, Nutrition and Dietetics, and Nursing. Each of these areas offers a unique perspective on healthcare and can enhance your role as a pharmacy professional. Additionally, training providers like Griffith University and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia contribute to this diversity in education.

In conclusion, Willawong stands out as a hub for pharmacy education, providing a range of courses suitable for all levels of expertise. Whether you are starting your journey or looking to specialise further, you can find a plethora of resources and qualified instructors in the area. With hands-on training from reputable providers, you are encouraged to take the next step in your pharmacy career. For a complete list of all available courses, be sure to visit the Pharmacy Courses in Willawong page.