Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler announced the change at the Guild’s Annual Parliamentary Dinner at Parliament House in Canberra on 19 November.
It means graduates of an approved Australian Qualifications Framework Level 9 Masters (Extended) of Pharmacy will earn the title of Doctor of Pharmacy. It elevates the pharmacy profession in line with the recognition given to other health professionals such as physiotherapists, podiatrists, optometrists and dentists. Study for the Masters (Extended) will include the intern year and graduates will be able to participate in the full scope of practice upon their registration.
“This recognition significantly enhances the professional credibility of pharmacists and reinforces their critical role in community health within Australia and globally,” Pharmacy Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey said.
“It’s an important step forward for future community pharmacists who will soon be able to start their careers with the highest possible qualification.
“It provides recognition for the extended scope of clinical practice being undertaken by pharmacists and will be better for pharmacists, patients and primary healthcare.
“Importantly, the Extended Masters program brings Australia’s registerable pharmacy degree in line with that delivered in comparative countries, making pharmacy a more attractive study and career option for Australian students.”
Speaking at the Pharmacy Guild’s Parliamentary Dinner Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler said:
“The Albanese government is delivering on a commitment to pharmacists who can now join other health professionals recognised with the title Doctor when they finish an Extended Masters.
“Opportunities to extend the education and scope of a pharmacists work will help attract and retain pharmacists in our workforce which means more pharmacists, happier pharmacists. Working in more places, providing more services and cheaper medicines to more Australians. This can only be a good thing.”
James Cook University Associate Professor John Smithson said comprehensive training at this high-level prepares graduates for the complexities of modern healthcare, making them practice-ready and capable of contributing effectively to patient care and health outcomes.
High-level, comprehensive training equips pharmacists with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare, enabling them to deliver impactful, collaborative care that improves patient outcomes in primary care and beyond," said James Cook University Associate Professor John Smithson.
"This is a logical and necessary step forward for both the community and the healthcare system. As pharmacists expand their role in response to the needs of patients and the expectations of government, professional recognition becomes a natural outcome. It will not only support the profession but also enhance public trust in pharmacists as accessible, capable healthcare providers."