Change is Coming – Government Funding for Pharmacist Prescribing
Date: 18 June 2026
Pharmacists who complete a Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing are now positioned to take advantage of funding reforms. The NSW Government is funding the first 5,000 oral contraceptive (OCP) initiations at $60 per consultation. From 1 January 2027, the Commonwealth will also fund UTI and OCP initiation — making primary care more affordable and accessible.
$10,000 Scholarship for Rural Pharmacies
NSW Guild member pharmacies located in MMM3 and above are eligible to apply for a $10,000 scholarship to support one pharmacist per pharmacy to undertake the Pharmacist Prescribing Course. The next application round opens July 2026.
- Click here to apply for the scholarship.
- When completing the application, please select “Chronic Conditions” as the Priority area of health care addressed by the course.
After submitting your application, please email Johnson.Lee@nsw.guild.org.au so the Guild can identify and prioritise your submission.
NSW University Courses – Limited Places Available
Both the University of Newcastle (UoN) and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) still have places available for the 2026 Cohort 2 Pharmacist Prescribing Course. The programs are delivered primarily online, meaning you do not need to travel to Queensland to become a prescribing pharmacist.
- UoN – Course commences early August 2026. Click here to apply and here for more information.
- UTS – Course commences late July 2026. Click here to apply.
Become a Prescribing Pharmacist
Enrol now, upskill for the future, and let your patients know that change is coming.
Page last updated on: 18 June 2026