Are you wondering how to build a stable, long-term career in pharmacy?
Pharmacy offers a diverse and rewarding path, but with so many settings, roles and specialities, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to keep progressing.
Whether you’re an intern seeking your first opportunity or a seasoned Pharmacist looking to transition or specialise, there are key steps that can help you grow, thrive, and future-proof your career.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to build a sustainable career in pharmacy with expert tips around goal setting, education, adaptability and career support, plus how LocumCo can be your trusted partner throughout every phase.
Why Pharmacy is Still a Strong Career Choice
Pharmacy continues to be one of the most respected healthcare professions in Australia. As the role of the Pharmacist evolves beyond dispensing, there is a growing demand in areas such as:
- Medication management
- Vaccination services
- Aged care and home medicine reviews
- Mental health and chronic disease management
- Hospital pharmacy and clinical support
With the right support and planning, the career possibilities are virtually endless.
And with Australia’s ageing population and increasing need for accessible healthcare, pharmacy remains a secure and stable profession.
Set Clear Career Goals from the Start
Whether you’re entering the profession or have been in it for a few years, setting clear, achievable career goals can help you stay focused and motivated.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to work in a community or hospital pharmacy?
- Am I interested in rural or metropolitan practice?
- Do I see myself moving into leadership or ownership?
- Would I like to teach, consult or become a preceptor?
Setting a direction doesn’t mean you’re locked in forever, but it gives you a framework for making smart career decisions.
At LocumCo, we encourage interns and students to start planning early. Semester 2 of third year is the ideal time to connect with us so we can help you secure placements with trusted pharmacies and preceptors.
Embrace a Variety of Experiences
One of the best ways to strengthen your pharmacy career is to gain exposure to different settings. This builds confidence, broadens your knowledge, and makes you more employable.
Consider:
- Locuming across city and regional pharmacies
- Working in both retail and hospital environments
- Assisting in rural health outreach programs
- Trying roles as a Pharmacist-in-Charge, intern supervisor, or retail manager
Locum roles in particular can open up short-term opportunities that offer both flexibility and long-term insight into where you want to specialise.
Through LocumCo, you’ll find roles including:
- Locum Pharmacist positions across NSW, QLD, WA and TAS
- Permanent and part-time Pharmacist jobs in urban and remote communities
- Intern and student jobs in well-established pharmacies
- Dispensary Technician and Pharmacy Assistant placements
View our latest jobs here
Stay Professionally Updated
The pharmacy landscape is always changing. Whether it’s the full scope of practice, digital health systems or vaccine rollouts, staying informed ensures you remain relevant and prepared for future challenges.
Here’s how to keep up:
- Join professional bodies like the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) and the Pharmacy Guild of Australia
- Subscribe to Pharmacy Daily for industry updates
- Stay aware of employment conditions through the Fair Work Pharmacy Award
- Keep your CPD current and pursue further education if needed
- Understand accreditation processes via the Australian Pharmacy Council
At LocumCo, we offer access to a variety of resources and guides to support your career development every step of the way.
Build Strong Professional Relationships
Networking is just as important in pharmacy as in any other field. Building a strong professional reputation and engaging with peers, preceptors, and mentors can unlock new career opportunities.
You can:
- Attend pharmacy conferences and events
- Participate in webinars or CPD workshops
- Stay connected with your university lecturers and supervisors
- Reach out to your LocumCo recruitment consultant for career advice
Having a recruitment partner like LocumCo means you’re not navigating your career path alone. With over 39 years in pharmacy recruitment, and a trusted network of over 21,000 Pharmacists, we connect professionals to meaningful roles with ongoing support and career advice.
Use Trusted Pharmacy Career Support Services
Having the right recruitment partner is key to building a lifelong pharmacy career. At LocumCo, we provide:
- Personalised job matching
- Access to pharmacy jobs is not publicly advertised
- Resume guidance and interview preparation (for permanent roles)
- Contract negotiation and compliance handling
- Reverse job board for visibility with employers
- Ongoing support throughout your career journey
Whether you’re a graduate, a mid-career Pharmacist, or approaching retirement and looking to stay active through locum work, LocumCo is here to support your journey.
Prioritise Work-Life Balance
Burnout is common in healthcare professions, and pharmacy is no exception. Finding a work setting that supports your well-being is vital for career longevity.
Locuming offers a unique balance, flexible hours, the ability to choose when and where to work, and the chance to try new locations without long-term commitment.
Need cover for a gap between permanent roles, maternity leave or travel plans? LocumCo has options tailored to your availability, and our team can schedule placements that suit your needs.
We also offer coverage for:
- Training and development days
- Conference travel
- Career transitions
- Regional staffing shortages
Final Thoughts
Building a lifelong career in pharmacy is not just about finding a job, it’s about finding the right roles, support, and growth pathways at every stage. Whether you want to specialise, locum, lead or teach, pharmacy offers more opportunities than ever before.
With over 39 years of experience, LocumCo is proud to be your trusted pharmacy recruitment partner. We’re here to support your journey, whether you’re starting out or ready to take your next big step.
Ready to explore what’s next? Get in touch for the latest updates and job opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Pharmacist in Australia?
You must complete an approved pharmacy degree and undertake an intern year. After this, you must obtain registration with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) to practise as a Pharmacist.
How do I find a locum Pharmacist?
Contact LocumCo with your requirements. Our team will source candidates from our database, send through resumes, and help you connect with approved locums. We handle scheduling and ensure compliance throughout the process.
Can I work as a locum while looking for a permanent pharmacy job?
Yes. Many Pharmacists use locum work to maintain income and flexibility while seeking the right permanent role. LocumCo can help you manage both pathways.
How early should pharmacy students start looking for internships?
We recommend contacting LocumCo in Semester 2 of the third year, so we can support you in finding the right preceptor and pharmacy to start your career strong.
What roles does LocumCo recruit for?
LocumCo places Locum Pharmacists, Permanent Pharmacists, Intern Pharmacists, Pharmacy Students, Dispensary Technicians, and Pharmacy Assistants across all states in Australia. We support a full scope of practice coverage and tailored placements.