There have been reforms to the kinds (and scope of treatments) Canberra’s pharmacists can offer. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Next time you need medical treatment for acne, musculoskeletal pains or even a flu jab for your toddler, you might be able to head to your local pharmacy.
It’s all part of a push from the ACT Government to expand what Canberra pharmacists can offer from early next year.
Under the changes, pharmacists will soon be able to offer treatment for mild, acute musculoskeletal pain, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, allergic and non-allergic rhinitis, acne, acute nausea and vomiting.
Pharmacy Guild ACT branch president Simon Blacker said the changes gave Canberrans increased flexibility in how they managed their health.
“This is a long journey. The fact that the government are making the most recent changes for 2026 makes sense,” he said.
“We’re comfortable with that … This is a slow process, actually, but that will also ensure that it’s done safely and with quality outcomes.”
They will also be able to treat UTIs and offer over-the-counter resupplies of oral contraceptive pills, following successful trials.
The authorisation for these services is anticipated to be available in early 2026 for pharmacists who have completed the mandated additional post-graduate training.
Mr Blacker said that while there was some uncertainty and concern about pharmacists being able to treat conditions that might otherwise require a doctor’s visit, they weren’t looking to “replace” general practitioners (GPs).
“This, when it’s up and running, will give patients more choice as to where they seek assistance with their health.
“What’s important to acknowledge is our GP colleagues work really hard, and on the ground, pharmacists are referring to GPs every single day.”
Part of the changes are around what medications pharmacists can resupply. Photo: File.
RACGP NSW and ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman said the expansion risked a lack of follow-up or ongoing care.
“It has the potential to disrupt continuity of care with a patient’s regular GP, and any move to expand the scope of pharmacy is fraught with risk,” she told Region.
“This includes potential misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and fragmented care, especially for patients with multiple, complex health conditions that must be carefully managed.”
She also said that pharmacists should form part of GP-led multidisciplinary care for patients, and called for more funding for general practice care.
Another of the changes is that pharmacists and intern pharmacists can administer the influenza vaccination to kids as young as two years.
(At the moment, it’s only open to kids aged five years and up.)
Mr Blacker remembers seeing parents confused when their school-aged kids could get their jab, while their young siblings missed out.
“Providing that more convenient option will surely drive vaccination rates higher, and we think that’s a common-sense approach before next winter.
“Ten years ago, [pharmacy-based vaccination] was a new service … now, many people across Australia recognise that it’s an accessible health service in an accessible, easy to find destination.”
Across the ACT, pharmacists administered more than 75,000 influenza vaccines this flu season, at an increase from over 61,000 vaccines given last year.
Visit Canberra Health Services to learn more about healthcare options available in the ACT or use the health literacy tool. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000) or go to your nearest emergency department.
