Key Highlights
- The average pharmacist salary in Australia (2025) is approximately AUD 120,000 per annum, with hourly wages generally ranging between AUD 45–55 or higher.
- Pay is influenced by location, years of experience, qualification level, and pharmacy sector (community or hospital).
- A government investment of AUD 3 billion into the pharmacy sector is expected to drive up wages, enhance job stability, and expand career opportunities.
- Whether in community or hospital settings, pharmacists in 2025 are among the most competitively paid healthcare professionals in Australia, with strong demand and future growth ahead.
National Overview: Pharmacist Salaries in Australia
In 2025, the average pharmacist’s pay in Australia sits at around AUD 120,000 annually, with hourly earnings between AUD 45 and AUD 55. Salaries vary based on role and responsibility:
| Role | Average Annual Salary (AUD) | Approx. Hourly Rate (AUD) |
| Intern Pharmacist | 50,000 – 60,000 | 25 – 30 |
| Registered Pharmacist (Graduate) | 70,000 – 80,000 | 32 – 40 |
| Pharmacist-in-Charge (PIC) | 90,000 – 110,000 | 45 – 55 |
| Consultant / Specialist Pharmacist | 110,000 – 130,000 | 55+ |
Average Pay by Australian Cities
Pharmacist earnings fluctuate across states and cities, with both metropolitan hubs and regional centers providing competitive salaries. According to the latest market data, here’s a snapshot:
| Location | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
| Perth, WA | 130,102 |
| Newcastle, NSW | 125,716 |
| Gold Coast, QLD | 124,687 |
| Brisbane, QLD | 121,089 |
| Melbourne, VIC | 116,930 |
| Mackay, QLD | 112,989 |
| Canberra, ACT | 103,752 |
| Sunshine Coast, QLD | 100,142 |
| Sydney, NSW | 95,972 |
Community Pharmacist Salary in Australia
Community pharmacists comprise approximately 70% of the workforce. Salary levels vary by experience and responsibility:
- Interns: AUD 50,000 – 60,000 annually
- Early-career (1–3 years): AUD 75,000 – 90,000
- Experienced (4+ years): AUD 90,000 – 110,000
- Pharmacist-in-Charge (PIC): AUD 100,000 – 120,000
- Managers/Owners: AUD 120,000+, with some exceeding AUD 200,000 in profitable locations
Recent reforms, including expanded prescribing rights and greater supply limits, have strengthened the community pharmacist’s role in primary care, raising both their value and income.
Hospital Pharmacist Salary in Australia
Hospital pharmacists often command higher salaries due to their clinical expertise and responsibilities:
- Entry-level hospital pharmacist: AUD 90,000 – 100,000
- Senior or clinical specialist: AUD 140,000 – 150,000
These roles involve advanced duties such as medication reviews, direct patient care, and clinical specializations, offering long-term career development and higher earning potential.
Factors Shaping Pharmacist Salaries in 2025
Several key factors determine pharmacist wages in Australia:
- Location: Rural and remote areas often pay more due to higher demand and workforce shortages.
- Experience: Senior pharmacists earn more, especially in supervisory or management positions.
- Education: Advanced qualifications (e.g., oncology, mental health, geriatrics) significantly boost salaries.
- Sector: Hospital and specialist pharmacists generally out-earn community pharmacists.
Tax, Take-home Pay & Working Hours
Pharmacists in Australia enjoy strong compensation and manageable work hours.
- Effective Tax Rate: Typically 15–19% of income.
- Net Annual Salary: From a gross salary of AUD 100,000, take-home pay is about AUD 79,000.
- Net Monthly Salary: Around AUD 6,580 – 6,600 after tax.
- Work Conditions: Flexible rosters, growing demand, and diverse work settings make pharmacy careers highly attractive.
Job Market & Growth Outlook
Australia is currently experiencing a shortage of pharmacists, with 2,500+ full-time vacancies nationwide. The sector is projected to grow by 9–14% by 2026.
Additionally, the government’s AUD 3 billion funding package for pharmacies over the next five years will further:
- Increase salaries
- Improve job stability
- Expand healthcare delivery roles
Elite Expertise: Supporting Your Pharmacy Career
Building a successful pharmacy career in Australia requires more than just passing exams. At Elite Expertise, we support international pharmacists with:
- Customised OPRA exam preparation courses aligned with global standards
- Guidance with AHPRA registration documents
- Mentorship and peer support communities
- Mock exams under real test conditions
- Expert coaching from licensed pharmacists with 10+ years of experience
Conclusion
Pharmacist salaries in Australia in 2025 remain highly competitive across community, hospital, and specialist roles. With rising demand, government support, and sector reforms, pharmacists enjoy one of the most secure and rewarding careers in the country’s healthcare sector. Elite Expertise is here to guide you through exam success and career growth so you can achieve your goals with confidence.
FAQs About Pharmacist Pay in Australia 2025
1. How much does a pharmacist earn per hour in Australia (2025)?
Most pharmacists earn between AUD 45–55 per hour, though senior hospital and consultant pharmacists may earn above AUD 60.
2. Which Australian city pays pharmacists the most?
As of 2025, Perth (WA) tops the list, with pharmacists earning an average of AUD 130,000 per year.
3. Do community pharmacists earn less than hospital pharmacists?
Yes, on average. Hospital pharmacists generally have higher pay due to their clinical responsibilities, but community pharmacists in managerial roles can earn equally high salaries.
4. Are pharmacist salaries in Australia increasing?
Yes. With a 9–14% industry growth projection by 2026 and AUD 3 billion in government funding, salaries and opportunities are expected to rise steadily.
5. What is the take-home pay for a pharmacist earning AUD 100,000?
After tax and Medicare levy, the net annual salary is about AUD 79,000, which equals around AUD 6,600 per month.