With the current NAPSA term approaching its end, 2025 has become the year of the pharmacy student. From a national campaign during the federal election to the release of a five-year vision, and new member benefits to an inaugural event exclusively for First Nations students - there has been no shortage of exciting developments in the student space.
At the time of the last Roundup, NAPSA had just announced the establishment of a Health Students Alliance, a new body that would tackle placement poverty. Now the Alliance has grown even further, and concluded a hard-hitting federal election campaign. Over the five weeks that ultimately resulted in a re-elected Albanese Labor government, we held campaign activities across the country.
We called out the Government and Opposition for making bold announcements on healthcare, without investing in the future workforce. With the election over, the Alliance moves forward in advocating directly to Parliament, as we seek to expand Commonwealth Prac Payments to pharmacy and allied health students. The fight isn't over, and we will be there for our members every step of the way.
NAPSA 2030 has officially launched, outlining our five-year vision for the Association. From engaging better with our members, to expanded advocacy efforts - and so much more - NAPSA 2030 lays the foundation for a NAPSA that truly serves our members, our stakeholders and our patients.
Charity Cup is well underway, as the branches compete to raise the most money for Bandu, a charity and social enterprise dedicated to empowering First Nations students as they navigate life after high school. In keeping with the theme of First Nations self-determination, our identifying members will head to Melbourne for NAPSA's first ever Indigenous event, organised and led by our inaugural Indigenous Committee.
Among the many benefits already included in NAPSA membership, we've just announced a partnership with ABC First Aid, offering discounted training to support our members in their compliance.
Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of NAPSA membership is Congress. Held since 1952, NAPSA Congress is our annual conference bringing students from across Australia and New Zealand to one place for a week of education, socialising, networking and celebration. Registrations for NAPSA Congress 2026 in Sydney have just opened and tickets are selling out fast! Make sure you don't miss out on the pharmacy student event of the year, and get your ticket here.
With so much happening in NAPSA, there's never been a better time to get involved. Nominations for the next Board of Executive Directors have just opened, meaning you get the chance to lead our Association over the next year. All members are encouraged to apply, so make sure you've checked your emails for nomination information - or reach out to secretary@napsa.org.au for more details.
