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.