Discover pharmacist jobs Australia 2025, current market demand, AHPRA registration process for overseas pharmacists, and clear PR pathways including subclass 189, 190 and 491 visas.
Introduction
Australia faces a persistent pharmacist shortage, with over 1,200 community and hospital pharmacist vacancies advertised monthly on SEEK and government job boards in 2025. Regional areas offer extra incentives and faster PR processing. If you are an overseas-trained pharmacist wondering how to move to Australia, this guide covers current demand, the exact licensing steps, and realistic permanent residency options.
High Demand for Pharmacists Across Australia
The pharmacist shortage Australia continues in 2025. Both community pharmacy chains and public hospitals struggle to fill positions, especially outside major cities. Hospital pharmacist Australia roles and community pharmacist demand remain strong in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia.
Regional pharmacist incentives Australia include relocation bonuses up to AUD 25,000, guaranteed supervised practice placements, and priority state nomination. Pharmacist salary Australia 2025 averages AUD 95,000–115,000 for registered pharmacists, with regional roles often starting higher due to shortage payments.
The Complete Licensing Process for Overseas Pharmacists
Overseas pharmacist registration Australia follows a clear sequence managed by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) and AHPRA.
First, apply for a skills assessment and English proficiency (OET pharmacist Australia grade B or IELTS pharmacist Australia 7.0 overall).
Second, sit and pass the APC exam Australia. Note: the KAPS exam ended in 2024 and was replaced by the new OPRA™ exam from March 2025. The new exam is shorter (2.5 hours) but maintains the same pass standard.
After passing OPRA, complete the Pharmacy intern training program Australia (1,976 supervised hours + written/oral exams) and register with the Pharmacy Board of Australia via AHPRA pharmacist registration. Most candidates finish the entire process in 18–24 months.
Permanent Residency Pathways for Pharmacists in 2025
Pharmacists appear on the Core Skills Occupation List under ANZSCO 251511, making pharmacist skilled migration Australia straightforward.
– Subclass 189 pharmacist (Independent): Points-tested, no sponsor needed. Minimum 85–95 points usually invited in 2025.
– Subclass 190 pharmacist (State-nominated): Adds 5 points; NSW, Victoria, and South Australia actively nominate.
– Subclass 491 pharmacist (Regional): Adds 15 points and fastest processing; ideal for regional pharmacist incentives Australia.
File your SkillSelect EOI pharmacist profile as soon as you receive positive skills assessment — many receive invitations within 3–6 months. State nomination pharmacist programs in Queensland and Western Australia remain open year-round for pharmacists willing to work regionally.
Conclusion
Pharmacist PR Australia remains one of the most achievable skilled migration pathways in 2025. High demand, clear registration steps, and multiple visa options create a realistic route to permanent residency. Start your APC skills assessment today and position yourself for the next invitation round.
