Pharmacy Connect 2026 showcases pharmacy’s expanding role in health care

14 SEPTEMBER 2026

Pharmacy Connect 2026 concluded in Sydney on Friday after welcoming a record attendance of more than 2000 delegates, reinforcing the conference event’s position as one of Australia’s leading community pharmacy conferences.

Held at the Hyatt Regency Sydney from 9 September to 11 September, the conference brought together pharmacy owners, pharmacists, students, interns, pharmacy assistants and industry representatives from across Australia under the theme, ‘Connecting With Care’.

Hosted by The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, over three-days the conference delivered keynote presentations, workshops, panel discussions, networking opportunities and a Trade Exhibition featuring 90 exhibitors.

The conference program featured more than 70 speakers and explored the opportunities, challenges and innovations shaping the future of community pharmacy and primary health care.

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia National President, Professor Trent Twomey, said Pharmacy Connect continues to provide an important platform for the profession to come together, share knowledge and prepare for the evolving needs of patients and communities.

“Community pharmacy continues to play an increasingly important role in Australia’s health care system, and Pharmacy Connect provides an invaluable opportunity for pharmacists and industry leaders to come together, learn from one another and help shape the future of patient care,” Professor Twomey said.

“What was evident throughout the conference is the profession’s commitment to improving health outcomes, embracing innovation and ensuring patients have access to safe, accessible and affordable care close to home.”

One of the major highlights of the conference was a keynote address from New South Wales Premier, The Hon. Chris Minns MP, who announced a series of landmark pharmacy reforms designed to expand patient access to health care through community pharmacy in NSW.

The reforms include enabling community pharmacists in NSW to administer all vaccinations under the National Immunisation Program from 1 January 2027, expanded prescribing services for pharmacists completing accredited training programs, and a new pharmacy care trial focused on wound care, selected chronic conditions and ear infections.

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, NSW Branch President, Mario Barone, said the announcements represent a significant step forward for patients and the health care system in NSW.

“The reforms announced at Pharmacy Connect recognise the important role community pharmacies play in delivering timely health care in their communities,” Mr Barone said.

“By enabling pharmacists to practise to the full extent of their education and training, more patients will be able to access care quickly and conveniently, while helping ease pressure on other parts of the health system.”

Professor Twomey thanked the conference sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and attendees for contributing to the success of Pharmacy Connect 2026.

“The success of Pharmacy Connect is made possible by the dedication and support of our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and partners, as well as the excitement and engagement of every delegate who attends,” Professor Twomey said.

Pharmacy Connect will return to the Hyatt Regency Sydney from 7–9 September 2027, with further details to be announced in the coming months.

One week until Pharmacy Connect 2026 arrives in Sydney

2 SEPTEMBER 2026

NSW Opposition Leader to join national pharmacy leaders as sector prepares for three days of education, innovation and connection.

In just one week’s time, thousands of pharmacy professionals from across Australia will gather in Sydney for Pharmacy Connect 2026, one of the nation’s premier pharmacy industry conferences and trade exhibitions.

Taking place from 9 September to 11 September at the Hyatt Regency Sydney, Pharmacy Connect 2026 will bring together pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, owners, managers, students and industry suppliers for three days of education, networking and business insights designed to support the future of community pharmacy.

Adding to an already strong line-up of speakers, organisers are pleased to announce that NSW Opposition Leader, Ms Kellie Sloane MP will join the program on Thursday morning, providing delegates with insights into the political landscape and the policy issues shaping health care delivery across New South Wales and beyond.

Hosted by The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Pharmacy Connect 2026 features more than 70 expert speakers covering a broad range of topics including clinical practice, business management, workforce challenges, health care innovation, emerging technologies and patient care.

“The countdown is officially on and we’re looking forward to welcoming pharmacy professionals from across the country to Sydney next week,” said Mario Barone, Branch President of The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, NSW Branch.

“For NSW pharmacists in particular the timing of the conference is key, as there are major changes to NSW health regulations of which many pharmacists may not be aware.”

“For pharmacists across Australia, the transition from QCPP to the new Quality Standards for Pharmacy Programs (QSPP) represents a significant change for the profession – Pharmacy Connect provides the ideal opportunity to get up to speed, with an education session and a trade stand dedicated to help pharmacists understand the new requirements and prepare for implementation.”

“Pharmacy Connect provides an important opportunity for the profession to come together, learn from leading experts, explore the latest products and services, and discuss the issues and opportunities shaping the future of community pharmacy.”

The conference exhibition will showcase products, services and innovations from 90 leading suppliers, giving attendees direct access to the latest developments in pharmacy practice and retail.

A highlight of the program will be discussions examining the economic, political and regulatory factors influencing the health care sector and small business environment, including the Thursday morning plenary session featuring both the NSW Premier and the NSW Opposition Leader.

With registration numbers tracking strongly, organisers encourage anyone yet to secure their place to register before the event begins.

Pharmacy Connect 2026 encourages pharmacists to make CPD count

 26 August 2026

Pharmacists looking to meet their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements while building their capabilities for the future are being encouraged to make Pharmacy Connect 2026 part of their professional development plan.

Bringing together accredited CPD opportunities with a comprehensive range of clinical, professional, business and industry education sessions, complemented by interactive pre-conference workshops, Pharmacy Connect will provide pharmacists with practical learning experiences that support both current practice and future career development.

Conference Convenor Kos Sclavos AM said Pharmacy Connect offers pharmacists an opportunity to view CPD as more than a compliance requirement.

“Pharmacists are required to complete a minimum of 40 CPD credits each year, but high-quality professional development is about much more than meeting a regulatory obligation,” Mr Sclavos said.

“Pharmacy Connect is designed to help pharmacists expand their knowledge, build confidence and develop the skills needed to embrace emerging opportunities across the profession, including expanded scope of practice.”

“Whether you’re focused on clinical practice, business management, leadership or preparing for the future of community pharmacy, Pharmacy Connect provides access to relevant and practical education delivered by industry experts and leaders,” he said.

Under Pharmacy Board of Australia requirements, pharmacists must complete a minimum of 40 CPD credits annually by 30 September. While both accredited and non-accredited CPD activities are recognised, pharmacists are responsible for ensuring any non-accredited learning is relevant, high quality and aligned with their professional learning needs and scope of practice.

“We want pharmacists to leave Pharmacy Connect with more than CPD credits. We want them to leave with new knowledge, practical strategies, valuable connections and greater confidence about where pharmacy is heading next,” Mr Sclavos said.

New South Wales Premier, The Hon Chris Minns to address delegates at Pharmacy Connect 2026

28 July 2026

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia is proud to announce that the Premier of New South Wales, the Honourable Chris Minns MP, will attend Pharmacy Connect 2026, returning to address delegates for the third year.

Mario Barone, President of The Pharmacy Guild of Australia NSW Branch, said it is an honour to welcome Premier Minns back to the conference.

“With the state’s continued investment in patient-led care, Premier Minns’ presence highlights the growing recognition of the vital role pharmacists play in delivering accessible, frontline healthcare across New South Wales,” said Mr Barone.

Premier Minns will speak at the Opening Plenary on Thursday 10 September, addressing hundreds of professionals from across the pharmacy sector. He will be joined by over 70 industry, business and clinical expert speakers who will address the conference theme ‘Connecting with Care’.

Mr Barone noted that the theme reflects the evolving role of community pharmacy and speaks to the profession’s commitment to patient-centred care.

“Pharmacy Connect offers a platform for professional development, business innovation and discussions on the future of pharmacy practice,” he said. “The program is designed to support pharmacy teams in navigating a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.”

“This is an opportunity for every corner of the industry to come together and decide the way forward. The conversations that change how we practice start here.”

Pharmacy Connect features a comprehensive education program, pre-conference workshops, an expanded 90-stand Trade Exhibition, and networking events including the Welcome Reception.

“With a strong education program and the expanded Trade Exhibition, Pharmacy Connect is an important event for anyone wanting to stay informed, connected, and ready for what is ahead,” Mr Barone said.

A must-attend event for pharmacists, owners, pharmacy assistants, retail managers, students, interns, and industry representatives, Pharmacy Connect 2026 will take place at the Hyatt Regency Sydney from 9 September – 11 September.

View the full program and register today!

Trade Exhibition stands SOLD OUT for Pharmacy Connect 2026

21 July 2026

Pharmacy Connect 2026’s Trade Exhibition stands are officially sold out, with an expanded trade exhibition of 90 stands fully allocated, cementing the event’s status as the second largest pharmacy trade event in the country after APP, and confirming its place as a must-attend gathering for the sector.

Taking place from 9 September – 11 September at the Hyatt Regency Sydney, Pharmacy Connect 2026 will bring together pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, pharmacy owners, students, interns and industry representatives for three days of learning, networking and inspiration.

The industry’s leading suppliers, all under one roof
This year’s Trade Exhibition has expanded to 90 stands and its largest footprint yet, giving delegates access to the sector’s most comprehensive showcase of products, services, technology and solutions, from medicine suppliers and software providers to finance companies and complementary medicine brands.

“The complete sell-out of exhibition space, and its growth to 90 stands, speaks to the confidence suppliers have in this event,” said Pharmacy Connect Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM. “It reinforces Pharmacy Connect’s position as the second largest pharmacy trade event in the country, and the key meeting place for the sector outside of APP, delegates get unrivalled access to the latest innovations, leading suppliers and expert insights, all in one location.”

Strong representation from The Guild’s National Council
Adding further weight to this year’s event is strong attendance from The Pharmacy Guild’s National Council, with respected industry leaders and representatives set to attend Pharmacy Connect alongside delegates from across the sector.

“Pharmacy Connect is an important opportunity for pharmacy owners, pharmacists and their teams to come together, hear from sector leaders and see firsthand the products, services and innovations shaping the future of community pharmacy,” said Branch President and National Councillor, Mario Barone.

“With a strong education program and a sold-out trade exhibition, it is a valuable event for anyone wanting to stay informed, connected and ready for what is ahead.”

Unmatched access to industry change and decision-makers
Beyond the trade floor, the exhibition gives pharmacists, pharmacy owners and industry professionals direct access to emerging trends, new products, regulatory updates and business solutions to help improve patient outcomes and business performance. It’s also where delegates connect directly with suppliers, peers and decision-makers from across pharmacy, building relationships and business opportunities that extend well beyond the three days of the conference.

“Pharmacy Connect continues to grow in popularity every year,” Mr Sclavos said. “Whether you’re looking to grow your business, stay ahead of industry trends, strengthen existing connections or build new partnerships, Pharmacy Connect 2026 is the place to do it.”

Mr Sclavos also encouraged pharmacy owners to bring their teams along to make the most of the professional development opportunities on offer, adding: “We’re especially excited about the opportunities for pharmacy assistants this year, including the popular three-hour Refresher Training session, which always sells out, and the dedicated pharmacy assistant education stream, a great addition to this year’s program.”

With a packed program of education, an unmissable trade exhibition, and strong representation from across the sector, including The Guild’s National Council, Pharmacy Connect 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most impactful conferences of the year.

View the full program and register today!

PATY winner Jessica Brown shares top 6 sessions for pharmacy assistants

14 July 2026

As national winner of the 2025 Pharmacy Guild of Australia/Maxigesic Pharmacy Assistant of the Year Award (PATY), Jessica Brown is recognised as one of the best pharmacy assistants in the country.

Ms Brown has shared her top 6 must-attend sessions for this year’s Pharmacy Connect conference, where she will emcee the Pharmacy Assistant Stream. Tailored specifically around the needs of the role, the stream is designed to give pharmacy assistants the product knowledge, confidence, sales and customer service skills, to evolve their careers.

Below are her top 6 must-attend sessions for pharmacy assistants, in order of their programmed date and time:

1)  Refresher Training Workshop (Part I and II)
Thursday 10 September, 8.25am – 12.30pm

Some might say it’s cheeky to have two programmed items grouped together, but it’s really two halves of one great workshop (with a morning tea break) to help us brush up on our current skills and build confidence in supporting patients. The sessions will go through travel health essentials and paracetamol use, as well as common patient scenarios so we can see theory put into practice before we are on the floor.

2)  Helping patients move through musculoskeletal pain
Thursday 10 September, 1.30pm – 2.00pm

Musculoskeletal pain is something we help customers with every day, so this is a really practical session to add to your toolkit. You’ll learn how to support customers with common aches, pains, sprains and strains, recommend appropriate self-care options, and recognise when it’s time to refer.

3)  The weight question: New options customers are asking about
Thursday 10 September, 2.30pm – 3.00pm

Weight management is a topic that comes up more and more in pharmacy, and this session offers some great insights into supporting customers looking for alternatives to medication. You’ll discover practical ways to guide these conversations while learning about the exciting role of gut microbiome health and ingredients like Akkermansia.

4)  How to boost your front of store capabilities
Thursday 10 September, 3.30pm – 4.00pm

This session is a great opportunity to explore simple ways we can strengthen our front of store offering as Full Scope of Practice continues to evolve. I’m looking forward to learning practical companion selling strategies that support better patient outcomes, improve the customer experience, and make recommending complementary products feel more natural.

5)  Frontline to influencer: Empowering pharmacy assistants to drive
awareness and action
Thursday 10 September, 4.30pm – 5.30pm

As pharmacy continues to evolve, so does the role of the pharmacy assistant, and this session is all about embracing those opportunities. I’m looking forward to learning simple ways to start conversations about pharmacy services, promote what our pharmacy has to offer, and help more customers discover the care available right in their local community.

6)  Changing the face of Men’s Health: Practical skills for pharmacy assistants
Friday 11 September, 12.00pm – 12.30pm

Men’s health conversations can sometimes be the hardest to start, but they can also make the biggest difference. This session will share practical tips on connecting with male customers, building trust, and helping them feel comfortable seeking advice and support in your pharmacy.

Whether you’re coming to learn, network, or celebrate, Pharmacy Connect is a great event for pharmacy assistants. You’ll leave feeling inspired, proud, and ready to take on whatever’s next.

Plus for a limited time, prospective delegates can enter the draw to win the ultimate conference experience! One lucky pharmacist and one lucky pharmacy assistant will win two nights at the Hyatt Regency Sydney and full registration for Pharmacy Connect 2026. Find out more here: WIN – Pharmacy Connect

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.”