This year’s Pharmacy Connect in Sydney arrives at a pivotal moment for the profession, with pharmacists navigating expanding clinical responsibilities, shifting policy settings and rising expectations from patients and governments.
Convenor Dr Kos Sclavos says this year’s theme, Connecting with Care, has guided the program’s design and reflects the increasing demands placed on community pharmacy.
“The theme has guided all aspects of the program, which is perhaps most evident in my annual Convenor’s top 10,” Dr Kos said.
The annual conference continues to be built for pharmacists who understand care extends beyond the dispensary, he said, and for those who want to strengthen both their clinical capability and business resilience.
“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,” he said.
“And meaningful networking opportunities in a focused and highly engaged environment. The conversations that change how you practice start here.”
The two-and-a-half-day program includes pre-conference workshops, an expanded 90-stand trade exhibition, a welcome reception and a dedicated stream for pharmacy assistants.
Below are the 10 sessions Mr Sclavos has highlighted for 2026, listed in program order.
Quality and Safety Pharmacy Program — Wednesday September 9, 9:30am-1:00pm
As community pharmacy practice evolves, accreditation frameworks must evolve with it. This workshop outlines the transition from the Quality Care Pharmacy Program to the new Quality and Safety Pharmacy Program, which takes effect October 1, 2026. Attendees will gain clarity on governance, operational requirements and the broader business implications of the shift.
Compliance, complaints and consequences — Wednesday September 9, 2:00pm-5:30pm
With NSW pharmacists expanding their scope in women’s health, this workshop provides a state specific legislative update, insights from a full scope pharmacist, training pathways, business planning considerations and marketing strategies for professional services. An interactive Q-and-A session rounds out this workshop.
Member only breakfast — Thursday September 10, 7:00am-8:15am
A closed session for PGA and PGNZ members, this breakfast provides updates on PGA’s short- and medium-term strategy, and an early look at analysis from PGA’s Member Census. Insights will help inform workforce planning, operational decisions and emerging opportunities.
Great moments in critical thinking in pharmacy — Thursday September 10, 8:40am-9:25am
Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM returns with a keynote exploring the role of critical thinking in pharmacy. Drawing on science, medicine and everyday life, Dr Karl examines how we know what we know and how to avoid getting it wrong.
Industry update panel — Thursday September 10, 9:25am-10:10am
A perennial delegate favourite, this fast-paced panel explores global trends and uniquely Australian challenges shaping the profession. Facilitated by Daniel Kicuroski, the panel includes Dr Kristen Riddle, Lisa Robins, Mario Barone and Professor Trent Twomey.
Community pharmacy and the expanded role in women’s health — Thursday September 10, 10:10am-10:55am
Ahead of the January 2027 Commonwealth pilot enabling pharmacists to prescribe certain contraceptives and UTI treatments for concession-card holders, this session provides a practical framework for preparing both clinically and operationally. It also explores broader opportunities across schedules and service categories.
Fish where the fish are — Thursday September 10, 11:25am-12:10pm
With the average pharmacy dispensing to more than 8,000 unique patients annually, this session focuses on using data to identify high value patient groups, deepen loyalty, close adherence gaps and lead in therapeutic areas undergoing rapid change.
Burnout and resilience: Burn bright, not out — Thursday September 10, 4:50pm-5:35pm
More than half of pharmacists report experiencing burnout. Human performance and mindset coach Kim Bessell offers realistic strategies for building resilience, improving recovery, maintaining clarity under pressure and sustaining energy across a demanding scope of practice.
Global policy shifts and the future of community pharmacy — Friday September 11, 8:30am-9:15am
International speaker Dr Kristen Riddle, President of the National Community Pharmacists Association in the United States, examines US policy developments and their implications for Australia. Her insights into global pharmacy trends make this a key session for owners and managers.
Buying and selling a pharmacy in today’s market — Friday September 11, 9:15am-10:00am
This session provides a practical overview of the current pharmacy sales landscape, including buyer demand, valuation trends, lending conditions and risk considerations. It offers clear guidance on navigating the end-to-end sales process in a higher interest rate environment
