MEDIA RELEASE

3 June 2025

New South Wales Premier, The Hon Chris Minns to address delegates at Pharmacy Connect 2025

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, New South Wales Branch President, Mario Barone, is proud to announce that the Premier of New South Wales, the Honourable Chris Minns MP, will attend Pharmacy Connect 2025 to address delegates this coming September.

A must-attend event for pharmacists, owners, executives, students, interns, pharmacy assistants, retail managers, and industry representatives, Pharmacy Connect 2025 will take place at the Hyatt Regency Sydney from 3-5 September.

Premier Minns will officially open the conference during the Opening Plenary on Thursday 4 September, addressing hundreds of delegates from across the pharmacy sector.

Mr Barone said it is an honour to welcome Premier Minns to the conference.

“We are very pleased to welcome back Premier Minns to Pharmacy Connect 2025. His presence highlights the growing recognition of the role pharmacists play in delivering accessible, frontline healthcare across New South Wales.

“With the state’s continued investment in pharmacist-led care, including expanded scope of practice trials, Premier Minns’ engagement with the sector is both timely and appreciated,” said Mr Barone.

Centred on the theme ‘From Inspiration to Action,’ the recently launched Pharmacy Connect conference program features a comprehensive education program including business, clinical, and pharmacy assistant streams, pre-conference workshops, a 70-stand Trade Exhibition, and networking events, including the Welcome Reception and Cocktail Party.

With the conference fast approaching, Mr Barone encouraged prospective delegates to register before 30 June to take advantage of Early Bird registration offers.

“Pharmacy Connect is a must-attend event for pharmacy industry professionals, and we’re pleased to offer early bird savings for those who register before 30 June,” said Mr Barone. “By securing a ticket early, attendees can save up to $100 off their registration.”

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly
Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050

MEDIA RELEASE

30 May 2025

Pharmacy Connect Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, would like to remind delegates that they have just one month until the Early Bird registration offer closes for the 2025 Pharmacy Connect conference. A must-attend annual event for pharmacists, owners, executives, students, interns, pharmacy assistants, retail managers, and industry representatives, Pharmacy Connect 2025 will take place from 3-5 September at the Hyatt Regency Sydney.

Pharmacy Connect 2025 is centred on the theme ‘From Inspiration to Action,’ with the recently launched program featuring a comprehensive two-and-a-half-day education program, pre-conference workshops, a 70-stand trade exhibition, and networking events, including the Welcome Reception and Cocktail Party, and for the first time, a dedicated pharmacy assistant educational stream.

Mr Sclavos noted everything from the program and speaker lineup to the Trade Exhibition has been curated to provide delegates with opportunities to gain the inspiration and practical tools needed to achieve their goals. He also mentioned the inclusion of specialised sessions.

“This year’s program includes excellent pre-conference workshops, including the Full Scope workshop covering current legislation, premises requirements, IT enablement, and business cases for pharmacists considering how their business will adapt to full scope, as well as sessions focused on emerging technologies and patient care,” said Mr Sclavos. “The program is designed to provide practical insights and strategies that attendees can apply in their professional practice straight away.”

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the pharmacy industry, Pharmacy Connect 2025 offers opportunities to grow, learn, and connect in the ever-evolving world of pharmacy.

A past Pharmacy Connect delegate shared that “[Pharmacy Connect] is a great chance to come out, connect with your colleagues, get some CPD points, get some education, and have a generally good time while you’re doing it.”

With the Early Bird registration offer ending on 30 June, Mr Sclavos encouraged prospective delegates to register early to take advantage of the savings.

“Pharmacy Connect is a must-attend event,” said Mr Sclavos. “By securing a ticket early, you can save up to $100 on your registration and ensure you secure your preferred accommodation. I know September still seems a long way off, but the sooner you book, the more you will save on registration and travel.”

Delegates who book during the Early Bird registration period will save up to $100 on full conference registration.

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly
Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050

Pharmacy Connect returns in 2025, following a year of significant growth for the community pharmacy industry, bringing with it a powerful theme: From Inspiration to Action.

Designed to empower pharmacy professionals at every level, this year’s conference bridges ideas with impact, equipping you to turn insights into practical progress. Whether you’re a seasoned pharmacy owner, pharmacist, pharmacy assistant, pharmacy student, or industry partner, Pharmacy Connect 2025 offers the tools, knowledge, and connections to help you navigate change and action with confidence.

Here’s why this must-attend event should be on your radar.

1. A conference program that moves you forward

This year’s sessions are built around driving real-world outcomes. Covering clinical, operational, and leadership themes, the Pharmacy Connect 2025 program offers practical, action-oriented takeaways you can immediately apply in your pharmacies. Learn from thought leaders, policy influencers, and frontline experts tackling the most relevant topics shaping pharmacy in 2025 and beyond.

2. Hands-on pre-conference workshops

Take a deeper dive with interactive pre-conference workshops that blend expert instruction with hands-on learning. These focused sessions help you strengthen your practice, enhance patient outcomes, and improve business performance while earning valuable CPD credits along the way.

3. Excellent networking opportunities

Pharmacy Connect is where future collaborations begin. It’s more than a conference; it’s a place where meaningful industry relationships are built. Whether you’re connecting with Guild leaders, speaking with keynote presenters, or chatting to fellow delegates over coffee, the Pharmacy Connect conference fosters genuine, high-quality connection, collaboration, and professional growth.

4. A dynamic Trade Exhibition

Explore innovations that can transform your pharmacy at the bustling Pharmacy Connect Trade Exhibition. Featuring 70 trade stands filled with key suppliers, emerging technologies, and service solutions, the exhibition floor is a practical extension of the education program showcasing what’s possible and what’s next.

5. Celebrate and connect at the social events

The Pharmacy Connect social calendar offers something for everyone. From the Welcome Reception to the Cocktail Party – which features the always-inspiring Pharmacy Assistant of the Year (PATY) winner announcement and which is taking place on Sydney Harbour for the first time – these events bring the community together to celebrate shared successes and the profession’s future.

6. Turning Inspiration into Action

This year’s theme, From Inspiration to Action, is more than a catchphrase, it’s a call to move forward, together. At Pharmacy Connect 2025, you’ll be inspired to do more, equipped to do better, and connected to those who can help you achieve it.

Take action at Pharmacy Connect 2025

Choose to show up and not just turn up. Whether you want to stay ahead of pharmacy trends, upskill your team, or connect with the people shaping the future of pharmacy, Pharmacy Connect 2025 is your opportunity to make it happen.

MEDIA RELEASE

 26 May 2025

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia National President, Professor Trent Twomey was pleased to announce the 2025 Pharmacy Guild of Australia/Maxigesic Pharmacy Assistant of the Year Award (PATY) state finalists, with 24 finalists invited to participate in the next round of judging.

Professor Twomey highlighted PATY as the most prestigious award for pharmacy assistants in Australia.

“This prestigious award was established to acknowledge pharmacy assistants who demonstrate exceptional dedication to patient care and show proactive commitment to their professional development,” remarked Professor Twomey

The PATY2025 state finalists will participate in virtual state judging, which will take place in June. Those selected as state/territory winners will convene for an in-person national workshop in September, during the 2025 Pharmacy Connect conference in Sydney.

“The state winners receive access to exclusive training and development sessions, return flights and accommodation for the National Judging Workshop on 3 September in Sydney, complimentary registration to the Pharmacy Connect conference (3-5 September), and recognition in national industry publications,” said Professor Twomey. “The national winner receives a cash prize of $5000, complimentary registration, return flights and accommodation to future Guild events.”

Winners of the 2025 PATY Award will be announced at the Pharmacy Connect conference Cocktail Party on Thursday 4 September 2025, which, for the first time, will take place aboard the Starship Sydney for a Sydney Harbour cruise.

This year the PATY workshops, judging, and winner announcement will take place at Pharmacy Connect. Previously, the Pharmacy Assistant National Conference hosted these activities, running parallel to Pharmacy Connect. However, this year Pharmacy Connect 2025 will offer a dedicated program pharmacy assistant stream. This change will bring attendees from all areas of the pharmacy industry more closely together, while still offering opportunities for tailored learning.

“The program is being structured to ensure all attendees, from owners and executives to interns and pharmacy assistants, gain valuable professional development,” said Mr Kos Sclavos AM, Pharmacy Connect conference convenor. “Our pharmacy assistant stream provides targeted skills development and career growth opportunities, reinforcing the important role they play in the sector.”

The conference’s Trade Exhibition will also provide attendees with the opportunity to engage directly with industry representatives, suppliers, and service providers.

“The exhibition space is designed to encourage genuine conversations and collaboration, so delegates walk away with fresh perspectives and actionable insights they can implement in their businesses,” Mr Sclavos added.

Early bird registration for Pharmacy Connect 2025 saves pharmacy assistant delegates $65 on full registration and closes on 30 June. Click to view the full Pharmacy Connect 2025 program.

See below to read the list of finalists:

More information about PATY can be found here: PATY Award – Pharmacy Connect

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly
Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050

MEDIA RELEASE

26 May 2025

Pharmacy Connect Conference Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, today reminded prospective delegates that the highly anticipated Pharmacy Connect 2025 conference is just 100 days away.

A must-attend event for pharmacists, owners, executives, students, interns, pharmacy assistants, retail managers, and industry representatives, Pharmacy Connect 2025 will take place at the Hyatt Regency Sydney from 3-5 September.

“I know September still seems a long way off, but the sooner you book, the more you will save on registration and travel,” said Mr Sclavos. “We wouldn’t want anyone to regret missing this fantastic event!”

Centred on the theme ‘From Inspiration to Action,’ the recently launched program features a comprehensive two-and-a-half-day education program including business, clinical and pharmacy assistant streams, pre-conference workshops, a 70-stand trade exhibition, and networking events including the Welcome Reception and Cocktail Party.

“This event caters to everyone in the pharmacy industry,” said Mr Sclavos, “and includes a variety of sessions, ensuring there is something for everyone.”

Pharmacy Connect 2025 program highlights include:

• Pharmacy Owners Masterclass – Blueprint to Success: An immersive workshop covering accounting basics, bank financing, full scope of practice, team building, and technology utilisation.
• Industry update panel session: Join Guild National President, Professor Trent Twomey for a Q&A industry panel. With so many hot topics in community pharmacy right now, this not-to-be missed session will include a broad representation from the pharmacy sector and consumers.
• Preparing now for what’s next – how to thrive in an age of uncertainty: Discover how to future-proof your business in Trend Forecaster, Michael McQueen’s dynamic keynote on thriving amid uncertainty. Explore emerging trends, Gen Z’s impact, and practical strategies to stay relevant, agile, and ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing world.
• Full scope – making the dream a reality: Find out what it takes to make full scope pharmacy a sustainable reality. This session explores key business metrics, investment considerations, workflow efficiencies, and real-world insights from an accountant and a practicing full scope pharmacist.
• Hustle to happy – the smart growth paradigm: Ready to break free from burnout? This energising session with Nicky Miklos will help pharmacy teams unlearn hustle habits, recognise unsustainable patterns, and adopt smarter growth strategies to scale sustainably—without sacrificing wellbeing, energy, or joy.

• Pharmacy Assistant Stream: For the first time, Pharmacy Connect 2025 will feature a dedicated pharmacy assistant education stream. With sessions covering bladder health, OTC analgesics, skincare, ageing and customer conversations, pharmacy assistants will gain confidence and practical skills to apply on the shopfloor straight away. The program culminates in the inspiring Pharmacy Assistant of the Year (PATY) Showcase, where eight finalists from across Australia will share how they’ve delivered standout patient care in their pharmacies.
• Cocktail Party: For the first time, this year’s Cocktail Party will be held on board Starship Sydney and will offer breath-taking views of the iconic Sydney skyline, the majestic Sydney Opera House and the historic Sydney Harbour Bridge from the water. Mingle with fellow attendees, enjoy beverages and a buffet dinner, and celebrate excellence with the announcement of the PATY national winner.

With the conference fast approaching, Mr Sclavos encouraged prospective delegates to register before 30 June to take advantage of Early Bird registration offers.

“Pharmacy Connect is a must-attend event for pharmacy industry professionals, and we’re pleased to offer early bird savings for those who register now,” said Mr Sclavos. “By securing a ticket early, attendees can save up to $100 off their registration.”

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly
Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050

MEDIA RELEASE

14 May 2025

Pharmacy Connect 2025 Program Now Available

Pharmacy Connect Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, today announced the launch of the Pharmacy Connect 2025 program. Taking place at the Hyatt Regency Sydney from 3-5 September, Pharmacy Connect welcomes 1,300+ pharmacists, owners, executives, students, interns, pharmacy assistants, retail managers, and industry representatives each year and features a two-and-a-half-day education program, pre-conference workshops, a 70-stand trade exhibition, and networking events, including the Welcome Reception and Cocktail Party, and for the first time, a dedicated pharmacy assistant educational stream.

Mr Sclavos highlighted that this year’s theme ‘From Inspiration to Action’ has guided all aspects of the program planning.

“We’re incredibly excited about this year’s program,” said Mr Sclavos. “This event caters to everyone in the pharmacy industry and includes a variety of sessions, from clinical updates to business strategies, ensuring there is something for everyone.”

The speaker lineup and sessions have been curated to provide delegates with opportunities to gain the inspiration and practical tools needed to achieve their goals.

“We’ve secured some incredibly high-calibre speakers,” said Mr Sclavos. “We’re thrilled to have Trend Forecaster Michael McQueen addressing our attendees on how to thrive in an age of uncertainty.”

Coach, Facilitator, and Keynote Speaker Nicky Miklos-Woodley will address delegates on Friday 4 September to explore frameworks delegates can use to elevate business growth, empower teams, and reclaim their time.

The Industry Update is a firm favourite each year. Featuring The Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s National President, Professor Trent Twomey other industry experts, the panel session will cover the consumer lens and wider pharmacy industry, and map out the current landscape, offering insights into existing (and future) opportunities.

Mr Sclavos also mentioned the inclusion of specialised sessions. “This year’s program includes a pre-conference workshop on turning scope of practice dreams into a reality and sessions focused on emerging technologies and patient care,” he said. “These sessions are designed to provide practical insights and strategies that attendees can apply in their professional practice.”

Prospective delegates are encouraged to register early to take advantage of Early Bird registration offers, which end 30 June.

“Pharmacy Connect is a must-attend event for the pharmacy profession, and we’re pleased to offer early bird savings for those who register for full conference registration before 30 June,” said Mr Sclavos. “By securing a ticket early, attendees can save up to $100 off their registration.”

Click here to see the full Pharmacy Connect conference program for 2025.

Book your Early Bird registration and receive up to $100 off full conference registration.

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly
Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050

Conference Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM is excited to announce that renowned futurist, multi-award-winning speaker, and bestselling author, Michael McQueen, will be a keynote speaker at Pharmacy Connect 2025. His session, ‘Preparing now for what’s next – how to thrive in an age of uncertainty’, which is sponsored by Symbion, will explore how to thrive amidst rapid change, offering attendees unique insights into future trends and practical strategies for success

“Michael’s expertise in trend forecasting and his ability to provide actionable strategies for navigating uncertainty will be immensely beneficial to delegates at Pharmacy Connect 2025,” said Mr Sclavos.

Recently ranked number 12 among the world’s top futurists, Michael McQueen is widely recognised for his ability to help organisations stay ahead of the curve.

Michael’s engaging storytelling and forward-thinking approach will inspire delegates to embrace innovation and resilience in their professional journeys.

Reflecting on the past year, Mrs Sclavos noted how vital these skills are for pharmacy professionals in a rapidly evolving world.

“Michael’s insights are a powerful testament to the importance of adaptability and foresight,” said Mr Sclavos. “His session will give delegates tools to tackle challenges both personally and professionally.”

Pharmacy Connect offers the Australian pharmacy industry a dynamic platform for learning, networking, and celebrating excellence. Taking place at the Hyatt Regency Sydney from 3-5 September, this year’s two-and-a-half-day conference features a comprehensive education program, pre-conference workshops, a 70-stand trade exhibition, networking events including the Welcome Reception and Cocktail Party, and for the first time, a dedicated pharmacy assistant educational stream.

“Pharmacy Connect is a must-attend event for pharmacy professionals, and we’re pleased to offer early bird savings for those who register before 30 June,” said Mr Sclavos. “By securing a ticket early, attendees can save up to $100 off their registration.”

To book your Early Bird registration and receive up to $100 off.

ENDS

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly
Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050

MEDIA RELEASE

8 May 2025

Last Call: PATY 2025 Self-Nominations Close Tomorrow!

Time is almost up! Self-nominations and nomination responses for the 2025 Pharmacy Assistant of the Year (PATY2025) Award close tomorrow Friday 9 May.

This is the final opportunity for pharmacy assistants to nominate themselves or complete their nomination if they’ve been nominated by someone else.

Alison Hope, PATY Award Judge and General Manager of Education and Training for the Australasian College of Pharmacy, encourages all nominees to take that last step.

“We know there are pharmacy assistants out there doing amazing work every day and this is your chance to be recognised for it,” Mrs Hope said. “It only takes a few minutes to complete your nomination, but the benefits can last a lifetime.”

PATY celebrates the vital role pharmacy assistants play in community pharmacy by recognising those who go above and beyond in their knowledge, service, and leadership.

Now in its 19th year, PATY is the leading award for pharmacy assistants in Australia, recognising excellence in customer service, leadership, and continued learning.

Finalists and winners receive a wide range of benefits, including:

PATY2025 State Finalists will:

• participate in the PATY2025 State Workshop and Judging Day, gaining invaluable professional development; and
• receive 50% off Pharmacy Connect 2025 conference registrations, which includes a dedicated Pharmacy Assistant educational stream.

Each PATY2025 State Winner will receive:

• a custom glass trophy;
• exclusive training and development sessions;
• national recognition in industry publications such as Retail Pharmacy Assistants, Retail Pharmacy, Australasian Pharmacist, and Pharmacy Daily;
• a profile in National Guild electronic and social media platforms; and
• return flights, accommodation, and complimentary registration to Pharmacy Connect 2025 for attendance at the PATY2025 National Judging Workshop.

The PATY2025 National Winner will receive:

• all the State Winner benefits;
• $5,000 cash prize;
• return flights, accommodation and registration to APP2026 on the Gold Coast, including tickets to the Welcome Reception and Street Party;

Self-nominations and nomination acceptances close Friday 9 May 2025.

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly
Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050

Pharmacy assistants across Australia are reminded there’s still time to self-nominate or respond to a nomination for the 2025 Pharmacy Guild of Australia/Maxigesic Pharmacy Assistant of the Year (PATY2025) Award, with entries closing on Friday 9 May.

Whether you’ve received a nomination from an employer, colleague, customer, or industry representative – or want to put your own name forward – this is your opportunity to be recognised on a national stage for your contribution to your community.

Alison Hope, PATY Award Judge and General Manager of Education and Training for the Australasian College of Pharmacy, says the PATY Award is about more than just recognition.

“It’s about celebrating the pharmacy assistants who show exceptional commitment to their work and communities,” Mrs Hope said. “By nominating yourself or completing your nomination response, you’re taking the next step in your professional development journey.”

Now in its 19th year, PATY is the leading award for pharmacy assistants in Australia, recognising excellence in customer service, leadership, and continued learning.

Finalists and winners receive a wide range of benefits, including:

PATY2025 State Finalists will:

• participate in the PATY2025 State Workshop and Judging Day, gaining invaluable professional development; and
• receive 50% off Pharmacy Connect 2025 conference registrations, which includes a dedicated Pharmacy Assistant educational stream.

Each PATY2025 State Winner will receive:

• a custom glass trophy;
• exclusive training and development sessions;
• national recognition in industry publications such as Retail Pharmacy Assistants, Retail Pharmacy, Australasian Pharmacist, and Pharmacy Daily;
• a profile in National Guild electronic and social media platforms; and
• return flights, accommodation, and complimentary registration to Pharmacy Connect 2025 for attendance at the PATY2025 National Judging Workshop.

The PATY2025 National Winner will receive:

• all the State Winner benefits;
• $5,000 cash prize;
• return flights, accommodation and registration to APP2026 on the Gold Coast, including tickets to the Welcome Reception and Street Party;

Self-nominations and nomination acceptances close Friday 9 May 2025.

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly

Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050

Tomorrow is the final day to nominate a pharmacy assistant for the 2025 Pharmacy Guild of Australia/Maxigesic Pharmacy Assistant of the Year (PATY2025) Award!

Nominations close at 11:59 PM (AEST) on Friday 18 April, marking the last opportunity for pharmacy owners, colleagues, customers, and industry representatives to acknowledge an outstanding pharmacy assistant in their community.

Alison Hope, PATY Award Judge and General Manager of Education and Training for the Australasian College of Pharmacy, says now is the time to act.

“Pharmacy assistants are at the heart of community pharmacy, providing exceptional care and support every day,” Mrs Hope said. “If you’ve been thinking about nominating someone, don’t wait — submit your nomination before it’s too late!”

The national winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize, a custom glass trophy, and industry recognition, along with professional development opportunities, including attendance at the 2026 Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference (APP2026) on the Gold Coast.

Third-party nominations close 18 April 2025

Media Enquiries:
Olive Reilly

Marketing and Communications Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
0423 494 050