South Australians could soon have faster and easier access to treatment for a range of common health conditions, as the state government launches a new training package and university course aimed at expanding the role of community pharmacists.
The Malinauskas Labor Government is providing subsidies of up to $8,500 to support pharmacists undertaking post-graduate training, enabling them to diagnose and manage a wider selection of health issues without the need for a GP appointment.
Among the new services pharmacists will be qualified to provide are treatments for ear infections, Shingles, school sores, minor wounds, gastro, acne, reflux and muscle or joint pain. The government expects more than 120 pharmacists to take up the training opportunity, with those in rural and remote areas receiving higher subsidies to account for travel costs and locum support.
The initiative adds to the government’s ongoing efforts to ease pressure on GP clinics and emergency departments by broadening access to primary care. It follows the introduction of four 24/7 community pharmacies at Norwood, Salisbury Plain, Clovelly Park and Hallett Cove, which have seen more than 400,000 after-hours visits since opening. Contracts for these sites will be extended for another year.
Health Minister Chris Picton said the changes would give South Australians more flexibility in managing their health needs. “We’re rolling out a comprehensive training package to allow pharmacists to assess and treat a whole range of extra conditions,” he said. “It’s better for them and for the health system.”
Chief Pharmacist Naomi Burgess described the development as a reflection of pharmacists’ expanding contribution to community care. “Our pharmacists are highly skilled professionals who’ve already shown what’s possible through services like immunisation and UTI treatment,” she said. “These reforms build on that success and help patients access expert care sooner.”
Adelaide University, which will open in 2026 following the merger of the University of Adelaide and UniSA, will offer a new Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing. The course, currently undergoing accreditation, has been designed in line with the new regulatory framework for expanded pharmacist practice and is expected to begin in the first semester of 2026.
Professor Joanne Cys, Provost and Deputy Vice Chancellor at Adelaide University, said the course would ensure graduates are well prepared to assess and treat a broad range of health conditions safely. “We’re proud to partner with SA Health to deliver high-quality education that meets the health needs of the South Australian community,” she said.
The reforms are expected to come into effect by early 2026, once regulatory changes are finalised and trained pharmacists receive authorisation to practise under the new system.
Data from similar programs already shows measurable benefits. Since community pharmacists began managing uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women, hospital presentations for the condition have fallen by 27 per cent in metropolitan areas.
The government hopes the latest expansion will continue that trend by bringing timely, trusted healthcare closer to where people live and work.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
