For almost two decades, Australia’s Pharmacy Assistant of the Year (PATY) Award — formerly the Maxigesic Pharmacy Assistant of the Year Award — has celebrated the individuals who are often the first point of contact for patients in community pharmacy.
The program transitioned to the PGA in 2008 and has continued to evolve alongside the profession, recognising the increasingly important role pharmacy assistants play in supporting patients, strengthening teams and contributing to their communities.
Evolving roles
As community pharmacy expands its clinical and patient‑facing services, the role of pharmacy assistants and technicians is shifting too.
Assistants now support dispensing, workflow management and patient experience, enabling pharmacists to work at the top of their scope and spend more time delivering clinical services.
The PATY Award has therefore never been more relevant. It recognises excellence while highlighting the importance of investing in and developing this essential workforce cohort
Program impact
Over the years, 18 national winners have been crowned and more than 1,000 pharmacy assistants have participated in state and national programs, cementing PATY as one of the profession’s most enduring recognition initiatives.
The program has also shown its ability to adapt.
During the COVID‑19 pandemic, judging days moved online via Zoom, ensuring the award could continue during one of the most challenging periods in healthcare.
The success of the virtual format has seen state judging remain online, improving accessibility and removing geographic barriers.
AFT support
For 10 years, AFT Pharmaceuticals has supported the award and witnessed its impact on winners and the profession.
Scott Crawford, General Manager ANZ at AFT Pharmaceuticals, says the company’s involvement reflects the value it sees in pharmacy assistants.
He notes the sponsorship has mirrored the growth of Maxigesic and continues to align with the company’s commitment to supporting the pharmacy workforce.
Looking ahead, AFT plans to further elevate the profile of pharmacy assistants as it steps into the role of sole sponsor.
Career growth
For many winners, receiving the national title marks the beginning of new opportunities, industry connections and personal and professional growth.
The stories of past winners show PATY is not simply about recognising achievement in a single moment.
It celebrates the people behind community pharmacy, fosters future leaders and demonstrates how investment in pharmacy assistants strengthens the profession as it prepares for full‑scope practice.
Winner journeys
AFT Pharmaceuticals spoke with several former winners to learn where their careers have taken them.
We revisit recent winners and explore how the award has shaped their careers, confidence and leadership within community pharmacy.
