Have you started your pharmacy internship but feel unsure about what happens next? 

You’re not alone. Many interns reach this stage excited but uncertain, unsure how to choose the right pathway, find the right preceptor, or secure their first permanent role. 

But if you don’t take the right steps early, your pharmacy career could stall before it even begins.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what it takes to transition successfully from intern to Pharmacist, how to avoid the common career traps, and where to find pharmacy career support that actually works.

Why This Journey Matters More Than You Think

The transition from intern to Pharmacist isn’t just about ticking the boxes for AHPRA registration. It’s your launchpad into a lifelong career. 

The decisions you make in this short window, like where you complete your internship or which skills you develop, will impact your job satisfaction, earning potential, and career direction for years to come.

Step One: Complete Your Internship Successfully

Your internship year is your chance to build competence and confidence in a real Pharmacy setting. But it’s not just about passing your exams. 

You should focus on developing:

• Clinical knowledge under real-world conditions 
• Teamwork and communication with staff and patients 
• Time management during peak hours 
• Accuracy and accountability under pressure

Choose the Right Preceptor and Pharmacy Setting

Not all internships offer the same level of support or experience. You need a preceptor who is committed to your development, not just ticking a box. Consider these questions:

• Does this Pharmacy offer exposure to a wide range of services? 
• Will I have structured feedback throughout the year? 
• Is the preceptor supportive, or always “too busy”?

The right environment nurtures you. The wrong one can leave you overwhelmed, unsupported, and unprepared for registration.

Understand AHPRA Registration Requirements

To become a registered Pharmacist, you must:

• Complete a recognised degree (like a Bachelor or Master of Pharmacy) 
• Register as an intern with AHPRA 
• Successfully complete your supervised practice 
• Pass the Intern Written Examination and Oral Assessment

It’s essential to check your eligibility and ensure all paperwork is submitted on time. Stay ahead of deadlines by setting calendar reminders.

Master Soft Skills That Set You Apart

While technical knowledge is critical, so are soft skills. Employers now prioritise Pharmacists who can work well in teams, adapt to changing workflows, and deliver high-quality patient care.

Here are the top soft skills employers seek:

• Adaptability: Can you handle new software or procedures quickly? 
• Empathy: Do you connect with patients and offer support? 
• Team spirit: Are you a cooperative team player in a fast-paced Pharmacy?

Gain Exposure to Different Pharmacy Roles

Being an intern doesn’t mean you’re locked into one path. Try exploring roles such as:

• Community Pharmacy: Patient-facing roles with customer interaction 
• Hospital Pharmacy: Working in clinical teams, often with acute cases 
• Rural or Remote Pharmacy: Greater autonomy and broader practice scope 
• Locum Pharmacy: Diverse environments with short-term placements

Pharmacy Student Locum work, even during holidays, can give you exposure to varied workflows and patient demographics.

Your Career Doesn’t Stop at Registration

Once registered, many new Pharmacists feel “what now?” Without support, some drift into roles that don’t suit them or struggle with burnout. Having ongoing pharmacy career support is essential to help you thrive, not just survive.

Find Support Through Trusted Networks

Building a career isn’t something you do alone. Connect with:

• The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) 
• The Pharmacy Guild of Australia 
• Australian Pharmacy Council 
• LocumCo’s Pharmacy Career Services

You don’t have to wait until you’re struggling; seek out mentors and support early.

Discover the Locum Advantage Early

Starting as a locum Pharmacist might not have been your original plan, but it can open doors. With companies like LocumCo, you can gain:

• Flexibility across settings 
• Insight into rural, city, and corporate Pharmacies 
• Networking with Pharmacy owners and teams 
• Experience that enhances your CV

The LocumCo+™ app makes it easy to explore locum and permanent roles, with over 3,800 users already managing applications in one place.

Plan for Your First Permanent Role

When you’re ready for a full-time role, make sure you:

• Have an updated CV tailored for Pharmacy 
• Register for job alerts through LocumCo

Internships Can Lead to Permanent Pharmacist Opportunities

Pharmacies that see your potential during your intern year are often open to offering permanent Pharmacist roles. If not, LocumCo can connect you with trusted Pharmacies looking for early-career talent.

They don’t just post a job and wait; they call or email with the shifts they need filled. With over 39 years of experience, LocumCo fills roles fast, sometimes within the hour.

Understand Your Career Path Options

Your career can take many directions. You can become:

• A Professional Services Pharmacist 
• A Pharmacy Manager 
• A Rural Practice Pharmacist 
• A Hospital Pharmacist 
• A Specialist in Medicinal Cannabis, aged care, or chronic disease management

Mapping your career early helps you focus your energy in the right direction.

Build Your Confidence Before Graduation

Don’t wait until after your final exams to plan your future. Semester 2 of your third year is the perfect time to contact LocumCo. We’ll help you connect with preceptors, plan your path, and be ready for what comes next.

Launch Your Career with LocumCo

If you’re serious about making the leap from intern to Pharmacist, you need more than just a plan; you need the right support. With expert pharmacy career support, LocumCo helps you transition confidently into permanent Pharmacy roles, explore locum opportunities, and connect with employers looking for rising talent.

With over 39 years of industry leadership and a trusted network of over 21,000 Candidates we’re here to help you every step of the way.

📞 Call 1800 357 001 today to explore intern to Pharmacist opportunities in the Pharmacy sector with LocumCo.

FAQs

1. What does the intern year involve?

It includes supervised practice under a registered Pharmacist, passing written and oral exams, and logging practical hours.

2. How do I find a Pharmacy that will support my internship?

Look for Pharmacies with structured programs and experienced preceptors, or contact LocumCo for support in finding a match.

3. Can I work as a locum before full registration?

You must have a valid AHPRA practising certificate. Once registered, you can work as a dispensary technician, pharmacy assistant, or pharmacist with full flexibility.

4. When should I start applying for jobs after my internship?

Start preparing in the final quarter of your internship. Having a polished CV and a job alert set up through LocumCo’s job portal helps.

5. What are the benefits of using LocumCo as a graduate?

You gain access to exclusive roles, CV support, quick placements, and advice from a pharmacist-led team that truly understands the Pharmacy landscape.