The trial, which wrapped up earlier this year, allowed pharmacists to treat minor skin conditions such as impetigo (commonly known as school sores), shingles, mild to moderate eczema, and mild plaque psoriasis. For many, this shift could make managing skin health simpler, faster, and more convenient.
Announcing the change at the Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s annual conference, Pharmacy Connect, in Sydney in September, the Premier of NSW, the Hon Chris Minns, highlighted the broader impact on the healthcare system.
“These changes save people time, and it might mean the difference between seeking treatment or not,” Premier Minns said.
“By enabling pharmacists to help manage common conditions, we are increasing access to care and relieving pressure on our GPs and the public hospital system.”
Pharmacists step up in community care
The trial tracked more than 3,200 patient consultations across 470 pharmacies in NSW, showing the significant role community pharmacists can play in everyday healthcare.
Notably, over one third of the participating pharmacies were in regional or rural areas, accounting for more than 40 percent of skin consultations during the year-long trial.
Reflecting the growing scope of pharmacists’ responsibilities, the Australasian College of Pharmacy highlighted its new course on skin conditions, designed to upskill pharmacists and support them in this expanded role.
Building consistency across Australia
The permanent adoption of these reforms represents an important next step. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s National President Professor Trent Twomey emphasised the benefits for patients, particularly those living outside major cities.
“By making these services permanent, we’re ensuring that patients, especially in rural and regional areas, can access timely, expert care from their local pharmacists,” Professor Twomey said.
He also noted the importance of consistency across Australian states. “We look forward to consistency with other jurisdictions in Australia, such as QLD, NT, Tas, and WA.”
With this milestone, NSW joins a growing movement recognising pharmacists as frontline healthcare providers — making everyday care more accessible for thousands of Australians.
By enabling pharmacists to help manage common conditions, we are increasing access to care and relieving pressure on our GPs and the public hospital system
NSW Premier the Hon Chris Minns
