Is your hiring strategy ready for 2025?
Finding the right Pharmacists is tougher than ever, and for locums, securing ideal shifts can be equally challenging. Employers are facing increased staffing pressures, while Pharmacists want variety, flexibility, and fair pay.
Hiring in 2025 looks quite different to even five years ago. Whether you’re managing a Pharmacy or seeking locum work, staying ahead of current pharmacy hiring trends is vital.
This blog covers what’s changing, why it matters, and how both sides of the industry can adapt and succeed.
The State of the Pharmacy Workforce in 2025
Australia’s Pharmacy workforce in 2025 is evolving rapidly, with a growing reliance on locum Pharmacists to fill critical staffing gaps across metro, regional, and rural communities.
A Highly Mobile Workforce
Locum Pharmacists now form a larger part of the pharmacy workforce than ever before. With demand surging in regional areas and casual flexibility taking priority post-pandemic, locums are no longer a backup; they’re essential.
Ageing Workforce and Rising Demand
The ageing population and workforce retirements are creating critical gaps in staffing, particularly in rural communities.
The Most In-Demand Pharmacy Roles
These roles are attracting the most interest in 2025:
- Vaccination-trained community Pharmacists
- Pharmacists experienced in rural and remote settings
- Pharmacists with compounding knowledge
- Locum Pharmacists available at short notice
Employers are increasingly valuing soft skills like adaptability and patient communication alongside clinical experience.
Key Pharmacy Hiring Trends in 2025
Pharmacies in 2025 are shifting towards flexible staffing models, favouring skilled locums who can adapt quickly, fill urgent gaps, and bring specialised experience.
Trend 1: Regional Roles Offer Competitive Pay
Pharmacists working in locations like Broken Hill, Orange, or Wagga Wagga are receiving excellent hourly rates. Rural employers are also more likely to offer accommodation and travel subsidies for locum roles.
Trend 2: Shift Toward Skills-Based Hiring
Instead of hiring by tenure, many Pharmacies prioritise skillsets such as immunisation certification, S8 handling experience, and MedsChecks.
Trend 3: Digital Hiring Platforms Are Standard
Locum Pharmacists are increasingly using digital platforms like the LocumCo Mobile App to browse jobs, set alerts, and communicate with employers.
What Employers Need to Know
Permanent full-time hiring is still relevant, but many Pharmacies are moving toward flexible, contract-based roles or blended teams of full-time and locum Pharmacists.
Prepare for Fast-Fill Requirements
Short-notice hiring is more common. That’s why some Pharmacies are already using services like LocumCo to fill positions, often within the hour.
Focus on Retention
While the focus is on hiring, don’t overlook retention. Pharmacists are more likely to stay when provided flexible rosters, fair pay, and access to continuing education.
What Locum Pharmacists Should Watch
Locum shifts are rising. Flexible Pharmacists open to rural assignments or weekend coverage are seeing more opportunities in 2025.
CPD Still Matters
Employers want to see evidence of up-to-date CPD. Whether it’s vaccination updates or QUM training, make sure you keep your qualifications fresh.
Maintain Digital Availability
Being available via app, email, or text helps you respond to shift requests faster. LocumCo’s mobile app allows Pharmacists to remain visible and ready for work.
How to Stay Competitive as a Locum
- Be flexible with your availability and locations
- Respond quickly to offers via phone or app
- Build positive relationships with employers
- Stay CPD compliant and upskill regularly
Which Skills Are Employers Prioritising?
Here’s what’s in demand in 2025:
- Immunisation certification
- Ability to work solo
- Fast software adaptability (Fred, Minfos, etc.)
- Professional communication with patients and teams
The Role of Technology in Pharmacy Hiring
Digital transformation continues to influence hiring:
- Apps are replacing emails and phone calls
- Availability calendars make staffing more predictable
- Employers use analytics to assess workforce needs
Both Pharmacists and Pharmacies benefit from increased transparency and streamlined processes.
Challenges in 2025’s Hiring Market
- Fierce competition for top locums
- Short-notice gaps due to staff illness
- Urban burnout, more Pharmacists requesting remote work
- Balancing work-life expectations
Wrapping It Up: Ready to Respond to Pharmacy Hiring Trends?
To sum up, Pharmacy hiring trends in 2025 are driven by flexibility, digital platforms, and skills-based roles.
Locum work is no longer a side option. It’s central to how Pharmacies operate.
Employers must act quickly and think beyond traditional job ads, while Pharmacists should stay ready, skilled, and responsive.
Want to take the next step? Browse current Pharmacist vacancies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to be a locum Pharmacist?
You must hold current AHPRA registration and professional indemnity insurance.
How do I find a locum Pharmacist?
Employers can register for their availability here. LocumCo will handle the sourcing and resume approvals.
Can I work as a locum straight after registration?
Yes. As long as you’re registered and confident in your skills, you can begin taking on shifts.
What’s the fastest way to secure locum shifts?
Download the LocumCo app, keep your notifications on, and stay available for communication via email or phone.
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