Have you ever logged into your AHPRA renewal and panicked, wondering if your CPD entries were enough, or even valid?
As a Pharmacist, staying professionally competent isn’t just a goal; it’s a legal requirement. With CPD requirements becoming more specific and auditable in 2025, it’s never been more important to understand how to earn, track, and apply CPD credits correctly.
This guide outlines exactly what Pharmacists need to do, where to get quality CPD, and how to use your regular workflow to meet your yearly targets.
What Does CPD Mean for Pharmacists?
CPD (Continuing Professional Development) refers to learning activities that enhance your skills, knowledge, and professional performance.
The Pharmacy Board of Australia requires all practising Pharmacists to complete CPD annually as part of their registration conditions.
Why Are CPD Requirements So Important?
- Ensures you maintain competence and safe practice
- Keeps your knowledge updated with regulatory and clinical changes
- Demonstrates professionalism and commitment
- Required for AHPRA registration renewal
- Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action
Understanding the Three CPD Activity Groups
Understanding the three CPD activity groups helps Pharmacists identify how different learning formats contribute to their annual CPD credits and professional growth.
Group 1: Informal Knowledge-Based Learning
- Reading pharmacy journals
- Attending lectures or webinars
- Watching recorded presentations
Group 2: Interactive, Practice-Based Learning
- Case studies and clinical workshops
- Protocol implementation
- Peer group learning
Group 3: Outcomes-Focused Learning With Reflection
- New service delivery in Pharmacy
- Safety audits with practice change
- Researching and implementing a revised SOP
The Power of Reflection in CPD
Reflective learning involves analysing how your learning impacted your practice. This is mandatory for at least one activity per year and is a common reason Pharmacists fall short during audits.
Use this framework to reflect effectively:
- What was the learning activity?
- Why did you choose it?
- How did it change your practice?
CPD for Locum Pharmacists
Working as a locum offers variety, but also adds complexity to your CPD:
- Log reflections across different workplace systems
- Use apps or cloud storage to keep records while mobile
- Consider using LocumCo’s mobile App to stay alert for jobs and CPD alignment
- Take notes from different Pharmacy locations to add to your CPD log
How to Track CPD Efficiently
Maintaining a systematic approach is essential to tracking CPD efficiently. Using digital tools, calendars, and regular reviews can help you keep your progress on track without stress.
- Digital CPD logs stored in the cloud
- The official Pharmacy Board CPD planner
- Scanning and uploading certificates to Google Drive or Dropbox
- Keeping a physical folder for audits
- Downloadable tracking templates from trusted providers
What Happens if You Don’t Meet Your CPD Requirements?
If you’re audited and can’t produce valid CPD records, the consequences may include:
- Delayed renewal of registration
- Regulatory investigation
- Mandatory education
- Fines or practice limitations
Tips to Stay Ahead of CPD Audits
- Set quarterly goals
- Record activities within 48 hours of completion
- Reflect immediately after the learning experience
- Keep everything in one secure location
- Use a calendar alert before renewal to check your log
CPD and Your Professional Development
Investing in your CPD does more than tick a box. It:
- Strengthens your CV
- Increases confidence during locum work
- Prepares you for managerial or specialty roles
- Ensures you’re a valuable asset in any workplace
Locum Pharmacists: Balance CPD and Shifts
If you’re working varied hours or different locations:
- Make time each month for online courses
- Schedule reflective entries weekly
- Use downtime between shifts to write short reflections
- Register for weekend CPD workshops where possible
Explore flexible locum positions that align with your goals.
The Role of LocumCo in Supporting Pharmacists
We help Pharmacists find the right opportunities to support their growth and CPD needs. From rural placements to urban contract work, our scheduling system ensures you remain professionally active and CPD-ready.
Final Thoughts: Are You CPD-Confident in 2025?
To sum up, meeting CPD requirements in 2025 isn’t just about compliance; it’s about staying competent, employable, and ready to tackle the future of Pharmacy practice.
Whether you’re in a permanent role or juggling multiple locum shifts, staying on top of CPD helps you maintain the trust of your patients, employers, and the profession itself.
Ready to find your next opportunity while completing your CPD with ease? Contact LocumCo to find suitable opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the CPD requirements for 2025?
Pharmacists must complete a minimum of 40 credits, including one reflective activity, and retain records for five years.
Do I need to submit my CPD every year?
No, but you must submit it if you’re audited. Ensure it’s up to date before each AHPRA renewal.
Do locums have different CPD rules?
No. All practising Pharmacists in Australia must meet the same CPD requirements, regardless of employment type.
What’s the best way to store CPD records?
Use cloud-based storage or a dedicated folder. Include certificates, reflections, dates, and activity type.
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