Pharmacy Connect 2026 Convenor’s top 10 must-attend sessions

By Kos Sclavos AM, Pharmacy Connect Conference Convenor

20 May 2026

As Pharmacy Connect Committee Chairman, each year I’m asked to share my top program highlights for pharmacists and pharmacy business owners– a difficult task given the calibre of sessions and speakers.

Pharmacy Connect is designed for pharmacists who understand that care extends beyond the dispensary. The program equips them to expand their clinical services, while maintaining the highest standards of care.

At Pharmacy Connect 2026 you will get up-to-date insights on pharmacy full scope of practice and the health priorities of the Albanese Government, and meaningful networking opportunities in a focused, highly engaged environment. This two-and-a-half-day program includes pre-conference workshops, an expanded 90-stand trade exhibition, Welcome Reception, and dedicated Pharmacy Assistant Stream.

The conversations that change how you practice start here.

Below are my top 10 picks for Pharmacy Connect 2026, in order of their programmed date and time:

1) Pre-Conference Workshop 2: Quality & Safety Pharmacy Program
Wednesday 9 September, 9.30am – 1.00pm

This workshop comes ahead of a big change for community pharmacy accreditation. Pharmacies now deliver vaccinations, conduct medicine checks, and support the management of acute and chronic conditions. This evolution in practice requires stronger governance and operational frameworks to ensure safe, high-quality care. In response to this shift, the Quality Care Pharmacy Program (QCPP) is transitioning to the Quality and Safety Pharmacy Program (QSPP). Attending this session will help you understand how the transition will not only affect you, but pharmacy business practice more broadly. The change takes effect on 1 October 2026, so make sure least one of your team attends!

2) Pre-Conference Workshop 6: Compliance, complaints and consequences – navigating regulation and your responsibilities in NSW
Wednesday 9 September, 2.00pm – 5.30pm

I may have some bias, but this is my pick of the four workshops on Wednesday afternoon. Following strong support and recent announcements from the Minns Government, pharmacists in NSW now have more opportunities to expand their scope in Women’s Health. This workshop includes a NSW-specific legislative update, insights from a full scope pharmacist, information on training pathways and requirements, key learnings on business planning for full scope, how to market your professional services, and an interactive Q&A.

3) Guild Member Only Breakfast
Thursday 10 September, 7.00am – 8.15am

An exclusive must-attend session for every Guild member, this member-only session will update attendees on The Guild’s short and medium term strategy, plus provide a first look at early analysis of The Guild’s Member Census. This data will offer learnings for workforce needs, help identify emerging opportunities, and inform operational insights.

4) Great moments in critical thinking in pharmacy
Thursday 10 September, 8.40am – 9.25am

Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM is one of my favourite presenters. In his engaging and thought-provoking keynote, Dr Karl will explore the pivotal role of critical thinking in pharmacy. Drawing on memorable moments from science, medicine, and everyday life, Dr Karl will explore the question “how do we know what we know – and how do we avoid getting it wrong?”.

5) Panel Session: Industry Update
Thursday 10 September, 9.25am – 10.10am

This is always a delegate favourite. In this fast-paced panel session, you’ll hear from experts about what’s shaping the profession, and what pharmacists need to be paying attention to. Facilitated by Daniel Kicuroski, NSW Guild Branch Director, the discussion will explore a mix of global trends and uniquely Australian challenges. This year’s panel includes international speaker Dr Kristen Riddle (President, National Community Pharmacists Association in the US), Lisa Robins (CEO, Patients Australia), and The Guild’s own Mario Barone, (NSW Guild Branch President) and Professor Trent Twomey (Guild National President).

6) Community pharmacy and the expanded role in Women’s Health
Thursday 10 September, 10.10am – 10.55am

From January 2027, a new Commonwealth Government pharmacy trial will enable concession card holders to access more affordable contraceptives and treatment for uncomplicated UTIs prescribed by appropriately trained pharmacists, outside the PBS. Beyond this pilot, there are significant opportunities for community pharmacy to further support women’s health across multiple medicine schedules and service categories. This key session will provide a practical framework to help pharmacies not just prepare for the pilot but confidently embrace their growing role.

7) Fish where the fish are
Thursday 10 September, 11.25am – 12.10pm

The average pharmacy in Australia dispenses to just over 8,000 unique patients per year. And yet many pharmacies don’t really differentiate how they support high volume prescription patients. With full scope of practice expanding what pharmacists can do, it’s more important than ever to support your pharmacy operations and business goals using data-backed insights. This session will showcase how to find the right patients, deepen loyalty, close adherence gaps, and lead in the therapeutic areas that are being completely rewritten.

8) Burn out and resilience: Burn bright, not out
Thursday 10 September, 4.50pm – 5.35pm

Research shows more than half of pharmacists experience burnout. This session with Kim Bessell, Human Performance and Mindset Coach, will equip pharmacists with realistic strategies that fit into busy, high-pressure environments. Attendees will learn how to build sustainable resilience and improve recovery, regain clarity and control under pressure, and maintain energy, motivation and focus over the long term. The Pharmacy Connect 2026 program is designed to offer pharmacy professionals what they need to adopt a wider range of clinical health services, as well as maintain high standards of care. With pharmacists doing more than ever, sustainable ways of working and managing workplace demands is a crucial part of this.

9) Global policy shifts and the future of Community Pharmacy
Friday 11 September, 8.30am – 9.15am

I am excited to welcome our international speaker – Dr Kirsten Riddle, President of the National Community Pharmacists Association (US) and a terrific pharmacist. The US is at the centre of world-wide pharmaceutical policy – developments there have direct implications for Australia. Dr Riddle will offer insights into what’s happening in the US right now, and what these shifts could mean for Australian pharmacies. Dr Riddle is a passionate speaker and a great leader of the pharmacy profession. Her deep knowledge of policy makes this a must-attend session.

10) Buying and selling a pharmacy in today’s market
Friday 11 September, 9.15am – 10.00am

If the pharmacy sales market is strong, it signals high business confidence, meaning pharmacies will invest in staff and infrastructure. So even if ownership isn’t your goal, understanding pharmacy sales offers valuable insight into where the sector is heading. This session takes a practical look at the realities of buying and selling a pharmacy in Australia and will explore current market conditions, evolving buyer demand and key trends shaping valuations and deal activity. Attendees will gain clear insight into the end-to-end sales process, with a strong focus on navigating the current lending environment, financing options, and risk considerations in a higher interest rate landscape.

I look forward to seeing you at Pharmacy Connect in September. If you haven’t registered yet I urge you to book now and take advantage of the Early Bird offer.

Finally, a reminder to sign up to our e-news to receive regular program updates.

Pharmacy Connect 2026 program now available

13 May 2026

Today Pharmacy Connect Conference Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, announced the launch of this year’s Pharmacy Connect program. Taking place at the Hyatt Regency Sydney from September 9 to September 11, the conference features a three-day education program including pre-conference workshops, networking events, 90-stand trade exhibition, and a dedicated pharmacy assistant educational stream.

Mr Sclavos said that the program is designed for the whole pharmacy team, offering practical training, new skills, and the chance to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

“Pharmacy Connect offers valuable insights for every member of the pharmacy team through industry updates, clinical education, business sessions and a dedicated Pharmacy Assistant Stream,” said Mr Sclavos.

The impressive speaker line-up includes one of Australia’s most respected science communicators, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM, and President of the National Community Pharmacists Association in the United States, Dr Kristen Riddle. Anticipation is already building for Dr Riddle’s session, where the US-based pharmacist will provide first‑hand insights and key learnings to protect and strengthen our Australian pharmacy sector. She will be joined by 40+ professional, business and industry speakers and clinical experts delivering content focused on the conference theme, ‘Connecting with Care’.

Mr Sclavos emphasised that this year’s theme was chosen to speak to an increasingly demanding industry and guided all aspects of program planning.

“Pharmacy professionals are doing more than ever. The program is designed to offer what they need to adopt a wider range of clinical health services, as well as maintain high standards of care,” said Mr Sclavos. “And that requires us as an industry to work strategically, to ensure all Australians have equitable access to these expanded pharmacy services.”

Uniquely placed to advise pharmacy professionals on protecting wellbeing while delivering high-quality care is Human Performance and Mindset Coach, Kim Bessell. His engaging session “Burnout and resilience: Burn bright, not out” demonstrates how sustainable change is possible, offering evidence-based approaches and realistic strategies for operating in high-pressure environments.

PDL Professional Officer, Claire Bekema, will detail what vicarious liability means in practice day-to-day. Her session will provide practical steps to strengthen systems, support teams and protect pharmacy businesses as services continue to expand.

“Community pharmacy and the expanded role in Women’s Health” is another key, future-focused session. Sponsored by Arrotex, it will offer a practical framework to help pharmacies prepare to make the most of opportunities ahead of the January 2027 government trial.  

And delegates return each year to gain insights into the next big opportunities at the Industry Update. The panel session led by National President of The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Professor Trent Twomey, maps out the current pharmacy landscape, with both a consumer lens and wider industry considerations.

“Pharmacy Connect offers practical insights, and meaningful networking opportunities in a focused and highly engaged environment,” Mr Sclavos said. “And booking early means you get all the value at the best price.”

Book now to take advantage of Early Bird registration offers, and receive up to $100 off full conference registration.

Pharmacist turned professional coach Kim Bessell added to Pharmacy Connect 2026 speaker lineup

MEDIA RELEASE

7 May 2026

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia is pleased to announce Kim Bessell, Human Performance and Mindset Coach, will present at Pharmacy Connect 2026. With his unique blend of pharmacy leadership and high‑performance coaching, he is ideally placed to advise pharmacy professionals looking to protect their wellbeing while continuing to deliver high-quality care.

Bessell’s engaging session “Burn out and resilience: Burn bright, not out” will challenge the idea that burnout is simply part of the profession, and demonstrate how sustainable change is possible.

Pharmacy Connect Conference Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, said Bessell’s session will provide timely and practical insights for pharmacy professionals navigating increasing workplace demands.

“Kim Bessell brings a rare combination of frontline pharmacy experience and high‑performance coaching,” Mr Sclavos said.

“At a time when pharmacy professionals are doing more than ever, his insights on enhancing performance without sacrificing wellbeing will be invaluable to delegates.”

A community pharmacist and former Australian Government Principal Pharmacist, Bessell’s career spans pharmacy ownership, wholesaling, national policy, high‑stakes negotiation and strategic planning, including direct engagement with Federal Ministers and international stakeholders. He now works with executives, elite athletes, and corporate teams.

Drawing on evidence-based approaches, his session will equip pharmacists with realistic strategies that fit into busy, high-pressure environments.

Bessell is an exciting addition to an impressive speaker lineup for Pharmacy Connect 2026. He joins President of the National Community Pharmacists Association in the United States, Dr Kristen Riddle, and one of Australia’s most respected science communicators, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM.

The three will be among 40+ professional, business and industry speakers and clinical experts delivering content focused on the conference theme, ‘Connecting with Care’. A full program will be released later this month.

Pharmacy Connect is taking place 9 September – 11 September at the Hyatt Regency Sydney. Early Bird registration, which can save attendees up to $100, is now open.

Mr Sclavos encourages pharmacy owners, pharmacists, executives, interns, students and industry partners to take advantage of Early Bird pricing and secure their place early.

“Pharmacy Connect delivers practical, relevant education and meaningful networking in a focused and highly engaged environment. And booking early means you get all the value at the best price.”

Dr Karl to speak at Pharmacy Connect 2026 

MEDIA RELEASE

23 April 2026

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia is pleased to announce that Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM, one of Australia’s most respected science communicators, will present at Pharmacy Connect 2026.

Renowned for his ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and entertaining way, Dr Karl’s presentation ‘Great moments in critical thinking in pharmacy,’ is set to bring a unique and engaging perspective to daily decision‑making and problem‑solving in professional pharmacy practice.

Pharmacy Connect Conference Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, said Dr Karl’s focus on critical thinking is highly relevant for pharmacy professionals navigating an increasingly complex healthcare environment.

“Critical thinking underpins safe, effective and ethical pharmacy practice,” said Mr Sclavos. “We look forward to hearing Dr Karl share his expertise and bring his unique perspective to the pharmacy industry.”

A scientist, author and broadcaster who has spent more than three decades promoting science education across television, radio, print and digital platforms. Dr Karl holds degrees in physics, mathematics, biomedical engineering and medicine and is the author of 48 books. He has held a wide range of professional roles including physicist, biomedical engineer and medical doctor. His contributions to science communication have been recognised nationally and internationally – in 2019 he was awarded the UNESCO Kalinga Prize for the Popularisation of Science and honoured in 2025 as the NSW Senior Australian of the Year.

Dr Karl will be joined by 40+ other professional, business and industry speakers and clinical experts who will deliver content focused on the conference theme, ‘Connecting with Care’. A full program will be released in May.

Pharmacy Connect is taking place 9 September – 11 September at the Hyatt Regency Sydney. Early Bird registration, which can save attendees up to $100, is now open.

Mr Sclavos encourages pharmacy owners, pharmacists, executives, interns, students and industry partners to take advantage of Early Bird pricing and secure their place early.

“Pharmacy Connect delivers practical, relevant education and meaningful networking in a focused and highly engaged environment. And booking early means you get all the value at the best price.”

International pharmacy leader confirmed for Pharmacy Connect 2026 keynote

MEDIA RELEASE

2 April 2026

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia is pleased to announce that Dr Kristen Riddle, pharmacist and National President of the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) in the US will be a keynote speaker at this year’s Pharmacy Connect.

Pharmacy Connect Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, said that Dr Riddle will provide delegates with first‑hand insights and highlight the key learnings Australia can take to protect and strengthen our sector.

“The US is at the centre of world-wide pharmaceutical policy – developments there have direct implications for Australia,” Mr Sclavos said.

“Securing Dr Riddle, who is a passionate speaker and a great leader of the pharmacy profession, is particularly valuable given the US market’s influence across global pharmacy policy.”

“The rapid expansion of direct‑to‑consumer models is placing enormous pressure on the US pharmacy sector, with 2025 seeing the closure of hundreds of pharmacies across all formats. These major policy shifts and emerging commercial models – including proposed ‘Most‑Favoured‑Nation’ pricing requirements and platforms such as TrumpRx – offer important lessons for the future of Australian pharmacy.”

A second‑generation independent pharmacist and co‑owner of American Home Pharmacy in Clinton, Arkansas, Dr Riddle delivers innovative patient‑centred care, including wellness testing, vaccinations and medication management services.

Her career reflects a strong commitment to advancing community pharmacy through patient‑focused programs in wellness screening, women’s health and personalised compounding.

Through her leadership at state and national levels, Dr Riddle champions independent pharmacy and advances the profession’s role in improving patient health and strengthening communities.

Dr Riddle is the first keynote speaker confirmed for Pharmacy Connect 2026. Stay tuned for more keynote speaker announcements in the weeks to come.

Pharmacy Connect is taking place 9 September – 11 September at Hyatt Regency Sydney. Eary bird registration, which can save attendees up to $100, is now open.

Mr Sclavos encourages pharmacy owners, pharmacists, executives, interns, students and industry partners to take advantage of Early Bird pricing and secure their place early.

“Pharmacy Connect delivers practical, relevant education and meaningful networking in a focused and highly engaged environment. And booking early means you get all the value at the best price.”

Pharmacy Connect 2025 inspires the industry to act

MEDIA RELEASE
8 September 2025

MEDIA CONT

Time to Turn Inspiration into Action! Pharmacy Connect 2025 kicks off this week!

MEDIA RELEASE

1 September 2025

Pharmacy Connect 2025 kicks off this Wednesday at the Hyatt Regency Sydney and is expected to welcome more than 1,000 members of the community pharmacy industry from across Australia for three days of education, networking, and celebrating industry excellence.

From 3-5 September 2025, delegates will experience a packed program featuring 60+ expert speakers, 70 trade stands, and a host of opportunities to connect with colleagues, suppliers, and industry leaders.

This year’s theme, ‘From Inspiration to Action’, will be brought to life through a full day of pre-conference workshops and a host of sessions covering clinical innovations, business growth strategies, and leadership insights. The program has been designed to give delegates the tools and motivation to drive change in their pharmacies and communities, and to gain actionable insights that they can implement straight away.

Conference Convenor Kos Sclavos AM said the team is ready to deliver one of the most engaging programs yet.

“We’ve designed Pharmacy Connect 2025 to be practical, inspiring, and relevant to everyone in the profession, from pharmacy owners and pharmacy assistants to pharmacy students, industry partners and beyond,” said Mr Sclavos. “If you have yet to register, there’s still time to join us. This is your chance to join your peers, gain valuable CPD points, and take home ideas and strategies you can implement to your pharmacies immediately.”

It’s not too late to register! With multiple options available to suit your needs. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event.

Media Enquiries:
Emma Fernance
0447 722 225

One week until Pharmacy Connect 2025!

MEDIA RELEASE
27 August 2025

With just one week to go, excitement is building for Pharmacy Connect 2025 which will bring more than 1,000 members of the pharmacy industry together from 3-5 September in Sydney for three days of education, networking, and celebrations of industry excellence.

Hosted at the Hyatt Regency Sydney, the conference will feature over 60 expert speakers, 70+ trade stands, and a dynamic program designed to inspire and equip delegates to take action in their pharmacies and communities.

This year’s theme, ‘From Inspiration to Action’, will be showcased through sessions spanning clinical advancements, business strategy, and leadership, as well as a dedicated pharmacy assistant education stream which has been introduced for the first time in 2025.

Conference Convenor Kos Sclavos AM said the program is designed to offer value to every sector of the pharmacy profession.

 “Whether you’re a pharmacy owner, pharmacist, assistant, intern, student, or industry partner, Pharmacy Connect 2025 is the place to gain real insights that you can implement into your community pharmacies straightaway,” Mr Sclavos said. “We’ve packed this year’s program with practical, forward-looking sessions covering scope of practice implementation to emerging trends and technologies.”

Highlights from this year’s program include:

• A full day of pre-conference workshops, covering topics including harm minimisation and scope of practice
• Panel discussions on the future of community pharmacy and patient care
• Sessions from keynote speakers including Nicky Miklos and Trends Forecaster Michael McQueen
• Unmissable networking events like the Welcome Reception and Cocktail Party which will be hosted aboard the Starship Sydney for the first time

There are multiple registration options available, so attendees can choose the package that best suits their needs and schedule.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event. Book now!

Media Enquiries:
Emma Fernance
0447 722 225

Just Two Weeks Until Pharmacy Connect 2025

MEDIA RELEASE

20 August 2025

With only two weeks to go, excitement is building for Pharmacy Connect 2025. From 3–5 September at the Hyatt Regency Sydney, Pharmacy Connect will bring together pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, pharmacy owners, group executives, students, interns, and industry representatives for three days of education, networking, and inspiration.

With over 70 trade stands, more than 60 expert speakers, and over 1,000 members of the pharmacy industry expected to attend, Pharmacy Connect Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, said this year’s event is shaping up to be one for the books.

“Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the pharmacy industry, Pharmacy Connect offers a dynamic platform to learn, connect, and grow,” said Mr Sclavos. “The conference delivers the latest industry and clinical updates, business insights, and countless opportunities to network with peers and suppliers.”

This year’s theme, ‘From Inspiration to Action,’ is reflected throughout the program. Delegates will have the opportunity to:

• Network with like-minded professionals, industry leaders, and suppliers to expand their connections and uncover new opportunities.
• Authentically engage with exhibitors at the Trade Exhibition, gaining real business value and forming lasting partnerships.
• Gain expert knowledge and actionable strategies to enhance pharmacy profitability, streamline operations, and improve patient care services.

Multiple registration options are available, allowing attendees to choose the package that best suits their needs and schedule.

ENDS

Media Enquiries:

Emma Fernance
0447 722 225

Only 3 weeks to go until Pharmacy Connect 2025!

MEDIA RELEASE

12 August 2025

With Pharmacy Connect 2025 just around the corner, Conference Convenor Kos Sclavos AM is urging pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, interns, students, and industry professionals to secure their tickets before it’s too late.

Held from 3–5 September 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Sydney, the conference promises an unmissable experience for anyone working in community pharmacy, with more than 60 expert speakers, 70 trade stands, and 1,300+ attendees expected.

“With just three weeks to go, now is the time to register,” said Mr Sclavos. “This year’s program has been designed with every corner of the pharmacy sector in mind, from frontline service delivery to digital innovation and business growth.”

This year’s theme, ‘From Inspiration to Action,’ is reflected throughout the program, which includes:

• A full day of pre-conference workshops
• Updates on full scope of practice and legislative changes
• A dedicated pharmacy assistant stream and 3-hour refresher training workshop
• Networking events and social functions to strengthen professional connections, including a Cocktail Party aboard the Starship Sydney

Delegates can also earn CPD points across the three-day program, making it a valuable investment in both professional development and practice improvement ahead of the end of September CPD deadline.

“Pharmacy Connect is more than just a conference. It’s where momentum happens,” Mr Sclavos added. “If you want to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry, this is the place to be in September.”

Registrations are filling fast.

Media Enquiries:
Emma Fernance
Events Manager
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland
07 3144 3606