Message from Pharmacy Board of Australia Chair Brett Simmonds

25 Sep 2023

Pharmacy strengthening health systems is the theme of this year’s World Pharmacists Day on 25 September.

World Pharmacists Day is an initiative of the International Pharmaceutical Federation. The theme highlights the vital role pharmacy plays in delivering effective, safe, quality health interventions and that pharmacy is integral to a well-functioning health system.

On behalf of the Pharmacy Board of Australia, I would like to acknowledge the significant contribution that Australian pharmacists make in ensuring patients have wider access to health care advice, have a safe supply chain of therapies and I thank Australia’s registered pharmacists for your continued work in promoting the responsible use of medicines.

Pharmacists around the world participate in the development of the frameworks that advance the delivery of effective and safe healthcare and ensure access to high quality medicines.

World Pharmacists Day provides an opportunity for our profession to celebrate the important role pharmacy plays in improving patient outcomes and supporting our communities.

The response of pharmacists during the the COVID-19 pandemic to meet the public’s needs was exemplary. A strong commitment by pharmacists has continued through their participation in the scope of practice pilots authorising expanded roles in public healthcare that have recently emerged in states and territories.

On behalf of the Board, which regulates Australia’s 36,425 pharmacists, I thank all pharmacists for their work in advancing the Australian health system. You are a vital part of Australia’s health workforce that makes a significant contribution to the positive health outcomes of Australian communities.

Happy World Pharmacists Day.