Are you a Pharmacist worried about where your career is heading? With the rapid rise of medicinal cannabis in Australia, there’s a brand-new opportunity many are overlooking, and it might just be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for.

Medicinal cannabis pharmacy jobs are booming, creating demand not only for trained professionals but also for those willing to upskill and ride the wave. As more patients turn to plant-based therapies and regulations evolve, Pharmacies across the country are scrambling to keep up. So the real question is, are you ready to meet the moment?

Let’s unpack why medicinal cannabis could be the career catalyst you didn’t know you needed.

Why the Boom in Medicinal Cannabis Pharmacy Jobs Matters

Medicinal cannabis has transitioned from a fringe treatment to a regulated therapy recognised for managing chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, and more.

With over 300,000 approvals since legalisation, the need for trained Pharmacists who understand how to dispense, consult, and support patients has exploded.

Here’s what this means for your career:

• Permanent pharmacy roles focused on medicinal cannabis are growing rapidly. 
• Employers are prioritising Pharmacists with specialised knowledge in this field. 
• Demand exists in both community and hospital settings, with no signs of slowing down.

What Skills Make You Stand Out in This Field?

To excel in medicinal cannabis pharmacy jobs, you’ll need more than just basic dispensing skills. Employers are looking for adaptable, well-rounded professionals who are willing to step into this niche with confidence.

Skills that can give you an edge include:

• Understanding therapeutic uses and side effects of medicinal cannabis 
• Staying current with TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) regulations 
• Educating patients with clarity and empathy 
• Team collaboration and interdisciplinary communication 
• Documenting compliance and treatment outcomes

Do You Need Special Training?

While no mandatory cannabis-specific certification exists in Australia just yet, you do need to be AHPRA registered with a valid practising certificate to be eligible for any Pharmacist role.

That said, upskilling in medicinal cannabis through PSA (Pharmaceutical Society of Australia) modules or webinars can put you ahead of the pack.

Why More Pharmacies Are Hiring for Cannabis Roles

From regional towns to major cities, more Pharmacies are adding medicinal cannabis services. This change is driven by evolving legislation, patient demand, and shifts in GP prescribing.

Reasons Pharmacies are adding these roles:

• Increased patient inquiries 
• Script approvals are growing each quarter 
• Business growth via specialised services 
• Differentiation from competitors 
• Greater trust from healthcare providers

What Do These Permanent Roles Actually Look Like?

Medicinal cannabis pharmacy jobs aren’t radically different in their day-to-day flow, but they are more consultative. You’ll likely spend more time educating patients, following up on treatment outcomes, and coordinating with doctors.

Expect to:

• Dispense cannabis-based medicines in compliance with Schedule 8 rules 
• Support patients adjusting dosages or navigating side effects 
• Keep detailed records for audit and safety compliance 
• Ensure all medicinal cannabis products are stored securely

A Great Fit for Intern Pharmacists Too?

Absolutely. Interns entering the field now will benefit from early exposure to cannabis care protocols.

In fact, getting involved now can position you as an in-demand candidate by the time you’re fully registered.

LocumCo recommends connecting with a preceptor or Pharmacy offering cannabis services to get ahead. 

Want Career Support in This Area? You’re Not Alone

Thousands of Pharmacists are now seeking roles in this space, and demand often outstrips supply.

That’s where LocumCo comes in.

We’ve helped place thousands of professionals into emerging and specialised roles through our positions vacant board and digital recruitment tool, LocumCo+™.

How to Stay Competitive in a Growing Market

If you’re serious about landing one of these roles, you need to act now. Competition is heating up, and Pharmacies are looking to hire talent who are prepared, registered, and responsive.

Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Update your CV to highlight relevant experience 
• Complete CPD in medicinal cannabis if available 
• Register for job alerts via LocumCo+™ 
• Get listed on the reverse job board to be noticed by employers 
• Be ready to start immediately, these roles fill fast

Can LocumCo Help with These Opportunities?

Yes. LocumCo is the go-to recruitment partner for over 4,800 Pharmacies across Australia.

When you need support, we step in fast, many roles are filled in under 60 minutes thanks to our responsive team and vast candidate network.

We don’t just match you with jobs, we understand the why behind your career goals and offer tailored pharmacy career support to help you grow.

What’s Next for Medicinal Cannabis Jobs?

Expect more legislation supporting cannabis treatments and more Pharmacies seeking qualified talent. We’re seeing a shift in patient care models, and medicinal cannabis is just one sign of this transformation.

The question is: will you be part of this change?

Permanent vs. Locum Roles in Cannabis Settings

Not all cannabis roles are permanent, but permanent positions are on the rise. LocumCo can help with both, depending on your preferences and location.

Some Pharmacists prefer to “test drive” cannabis roles via locum shifts before committing to a full-time post.

Where Are the Most Jobs Right Now?

Jobs are available in metro areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, but also in regional centres with fewer Pharmacists per capita.

Rural Pharmacies often offer higher pay rates, flexible contracts, and on-site accommodation to attract talent.

Our Digital Tool Makes It Easier Than Ever

Use LocumCo+™ to browse, filter, and apply for cannabis Pharmacy jobs. You’ll get instant alerts and can manage your applications all in one place.

This tool is built specifically for Pharmacy professionals, not generic jobseekers.

Pharmacy Career Support That Evolves With You

Whether you’re a new grad or a seasoned professional, LocumCo provides tailored career advice, connections, and negotiation assistance.

We understand that navigating this new area can be overwhelming, and we’re here to walk you through every step.

Ready for a Career Shift?

Medicinal cannabis pharmacy jobs are transforming the industry. If you’re ready to be part of this shift, LocumCo is ready to help you get there.

We offer unmatched pharmacy career support, connecting you to permanent opportunities, compliance guidance, and tailored placements. With over 39 years of experience, we’ve earned our place as the Pharmacy’s most trusted recruitment partner.

To explore roles in the growing medicinal cannabis field. Call us at 1800 357 001 to learn more about how LocumCo can assist with your next pharmacy career support step in the Pharmacy industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need special qualifications to work in medicinal cannabis?

You must hold AHPRA registration. Additional training in medicinal cannabis is recommended but not mandatory.

Are these roles full-time or part-time?

Most are permanent full-time roles, but part-time and locum options exist depending on the location.

What type of Pharmacies hire for cannabis roles?

Both community and hospital Pharmacies are actively hiring, particularly those expanding their clinical services.

How quickly can I get placed?

With LocumCo, placements can happen within the hour for locum roles.

Can Interns work in this area?

Yes, and starting early gives you a competitive edge. Talk to LocumCo in your third year to find suitable placements.