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.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Pharmacy Assistant.
Common questions
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.
Courses.com.au Team
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
Courses.com.au Team
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.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What can you do with a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance?
31st August 2021
How to start a career as a Dental Assistant
7th December 2021All pharmacy assistant courses
- 11030NAT Course in Ear Wax Removal (Irrigation)
- HLT37115 Certificate III in Hospital/Health Services Pharmacy Support
- HLT37121 Certificate III in Hospital or Health Services Pharmacy Support
- HLT47115 Certificate IV in Hospital/Health Services Pharmacy Support
- HLT47121 Certificate IV in Hospital or Health Services Pharmacy Support
- HLTSS00064 Infection Control Skill Set
- HLTSS00065 Infection control Skill Set (Retail)
- SIR20116 Certificate II in Community Pharmacy
- SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy
- SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (Dispensary)
- SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (Front of House)
- SIR40116 Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy
- SIR40216 Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary
- SIRCIND002 Support the Supply of Pharmacy Medicines and Pharmacist Only Medicines
- SIRSS00012 Community Pharmacy Dispensary
- Undergraduate Certificate for Cosmetic Advisors
Pharmacy Assistant careers
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.
