Becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia as an internationally qualified candidate is a challenging yet rewarding journey. It demands dedication, persistence, and strategic preparation.
After successfully passing the OPRA (Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Assessment) or the now-replaced KAPS (Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Science) exam, the next milestone is your pharmacy internship. This year-long phase will give you essential, hands-on experience under supervision—preparing you for independent pharmacy practice in Australia.
But here’s the big question: How do you find the right internship opportunity in Australia?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through eligibility requirements, application strategies, top employers, and proven tips to secure your internship quickly and confidently.
Why the Internship Matters in the Australian Pharmacy Registration Pathway
Once you pass the KAPS or OPRA exam, you can apply for provisional registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia (PBA). This registration allows you to work as an intern pharmacist under the supervision of a fully registered pharmacist.
The internship is a minimum of 1,575 hours (around one year) and is much more than a formality. It’s your chance to:
- Apply theoretical knowledge in real-life pharmacy settings
- Strengthen clinical and communication skills
- Understand Australian pharmacy laws, regulations, and ethical responsibilities
- Prepare for the Australian Intern Written and Oral Exams
Eligibility Criteria for Starting an Internship in Australia
Before you send out applications, you must meet these key requirements:
1. Pass the OPRA Exam (Previously KAPS Exam)
- The OPRA exam, conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council, is a critical licensure step for practicing in Australia or New Zealand.
- You must hold a 4-year pharmacy degree and be a licensed pharmacist in your home country.
Note: The KAPS exam has been replaced by the OPRA exam from March 2025.
2. Meet English Language Proficiency Requirements (AHPRA Standard)
You can meet this through:
- OET: Grade B in Reading, Listening, and Speaking & Grade C in Writing
- IELTS: Minimum 7.0 in each module
- PTE Academic: 66 in Reading, Listening, and Speaking & 56 in Writing
- Results must be recent—within the last 2 years.
3. Obtain Provisional Registration with AHPRA
- Apply via the AHPRA online portal.
- Requirements include police clearance and a certificate of good standing from your home country.
- This allows you to legally begin your internship.
Where to Find Pharmacy Internship Opportunities in Australia
Hospital Pharmacy Internships
- Structured programs with broad clinical exposure.
- Popular employers:
- Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (QLD)
- The Alfred and Royal Melbourne Hospital (VIC)
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (NSW)
- Fiona Stanley Hospital (WA)
- Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (QLD)
Tip: Hospital internships are highly competitive. Applications often open in May and August for the following year’s intake. Check state health department websites or dedicated pharmacy recruitment portals.
Community Pharmacy Internships
- Offer flexible hours and extensive patient interaction.
- Leading chains include:
- Chemist Warehouse
- TerryWhite Chemmart
- Priceline Pharmacy
- Amcal
- Discount Pharmacy
- Independent/local pharmacies
- Chemist Warehouse
How to Apply:
- Directly via official company career pages
- Walk-in applications with a tailored resume
- Online job portals: Seek, Indeed, Jora, LinkedIn
- Networking and referrals from current employees
Pro Tip: Rural and regional areas have higher acceptance rates and may offer visa sponsorship (e.g., 482 TSS visa) plus relocation or housing benefits.
Intern Training Programs (ITPs) & Placement Support
Enrolling in an accredited intern training program is mandatory. Popular providers include:
- Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA)
- Guild Intern Training Program
- Monash University
- University of Sydney
These programs combine coursework, workshops, and exam preparation—and may assist with placements.
Essential Documents for Internship Applications
- Updated resume tailored to pharmacy practice
- Cover letter highlighting OPRA/KAPS success and clinical skills
- English test results (OET/IELTS/PTE)
- Provisional registration proof
- Police clearance & certificate of good standing
Tips to Land Your Pharmacy Internship Faster
- Apply early (at least 6 months in advance)
- Follow up after applying—phone calls or emails show initiative
- Prepare for interviews with scenario-based and communication skill questions
- Be location flexible—rural offers often come with added benefits
- Network actively through events, webinars, and pharmacy groups
- Tailor your resume to highlight Australian standards knowledge
Life After the Internship
Once you’ve completed your intern training program and hours:
- Pass the Australian Intern Written and Oral Exams
- Apply for General Registration with AHPRA
- Begin your career as a fully registered pharmacist in Australia
How Elite Expertise Can Help
Preparing for the intern written and oral exams can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. Elite Expertise offers:
For the Intern Written Exam:
- Updated clinical content aligned with PBA guidelines
- Timed mock exams
- Focus on patient safety, calculations, and case studies
For the Intern Oral Exam:
- Role-play simulations based on AHPRA scenarios
- Communication skills training
- Legal, ethical, and clinical decision-making practice
Final Thoughts:
Securing an internship as an intern pharmacist in Australia after the OPRA or KAPS exam is your gateway to a fulfilling pharmacy career. With preparation, flexibility, and the right guidance, Elite Expertise, you can land an internship that not only fulfills your registration requirements but also shapes your long-term professional success.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pharmacy Internships in Australia
The OPRA (Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Assessment) exam, conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council, ensures that internationally qualified pharmacists have the required knowledge to practice safely in Australia. Passing OPRA is the first step before applying for provisional registration and starting your internship.
The pharmacy internship typically lasts 1,575 hours, which is approximately one year of supervised practice. During this time, you’ll gain practical experience in real pharmacy settings.
You must pass the OPRA exam, meet English language proficiency requirements (OET, IELTS, or PTE), and obtain provisional registration from AHPRA. A 4-year pharmacy degree and pharmacist license from your home country are also required.
Opportunities are available in both hospital and community pharmacies. Apply directly via hospital websites, pharmacy chains (Chemist Warehouse, TerryWhite, Priceline), job portals like Seek or LinkedIn, or through networking and referrals.
It’s best to start applying at least 6 months before you plan to begin your internship. Hospital programs often open applications in May or August for the following year’s intake.
Yes, rural and regional areas often have higher acceptance rates and may offer additional incentives like visa sponsorship, relocation support, and housing benefits.
Prepare an updated resume, cover letter, OPRA/KAPS exam certificate, English test results, provisional registration proof, police clearance, and a certificate of good standing from your home country.
Yes. Completing an accredited ITP is mandatory. Providers include PSA, Guild, Monash University, and the University of Sydney. These programs offer coursework, workshops, and exam preparation support.
After completing your internship and training program, you must pass the Australian Intern Written and Oral Exams. Once you pass, you can apply for general registration and start working as a registered pharmacist.
Elite Expertise offers expert coaching, mock tests, interview preparation, and mentorship for both the intern written and oral exams. Our tailored guidance helps you secure your internship faster and succeed in your pharmacy career.