Author: Tony Hope

If you’re an early-career pharmacist, the idea of owning your first pharmacy might feel pretty daunting. City pharmacies can be expensive, highly competitive, and tough to break into. But another option that’s often overlooked is owning a pharmacy in regional or rural Australia. These pharmacies offer steady income, lower upfront costs, and strong community support, making them an excellent choice for your first business. Financial Benefits: Lower Costs, Stronger Returns A key benefit of buying a regional pharmacy is typically getting better value for money compared to city-based pharmacies. Regional pharmacies usually have higher capitalisation (CAP) rates, meaning the purchase…

Starting a pharmacy in Australia can be a journey filled with promise—and a fair share of pitfalls. While the regulatory framework surrounding pharmacy location rules is well-documented, the practical realities are often far more nuanced. Whether it’s launching a greenfield project, tackling the complexities of a large medical centre application, or navigating the rare and coveted ministerial application process, each path presents its unique challenges and opportunities. In this article, we share real-world examples inspired by the experiences of pharmacist entrepreneurs who have paved the way for others. While details have been adjusted to ensure confidentiality, these stories capture the…