Earlier this week, the Albanese-Labor Government announced the introduction of the Commonwealth Prac Payment, an initiative providing payment to students on mandatory practical placement as part of their university studies.
Aimed at alleviating ‘placement poverty’, the initiative will provide weekly payments $319.50 to students studying to be teachers, nurses, midwives, or social workers.
The Guild applauds the move, however the omission of pharmacy students has sparked concern among among industry peak bodies.
Alongside the National Australian Pharmacy Students’ Association (NAPSA), the Guild is calling for the scheme to be extended to include pharmacy students.
”These payments will help many young students across the country, but it’s vital that our young pharmacists aren’t forgotten,” Professor Twomey said.
“Being excluded means additional pressure is placed on a workforce that is already under significant strain.”
NAPSA President Bano Serhan says many pharmacy students are experiencing placement poverty.
“During a cost-of-living crisis, pharmacy students are facing extreme placement poverty, and NAPSA continues to hear of students leaving healthcare to support themselves and their families.”
“NAPSA and the Guild are calling on the government to fully implement the recommendations of the Universities Accord and the Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce and subsidise placements for pharmacy students.”
The Commonwealth Prac Payment is set to commence on 1 July 2025. It will be means-tested and is designed to supplement any other income support students may receive.
As the budget details are refined, stakeholders within the pharmacy sector remain hopeful that their calls for inclusivity will be met with positive changes, ensuring no student is disadvantaged by their choice of professional study.
