APP2026 wrapped up on Saturday after three days, with thousands of pharmacists, sponsors and industry partners coming together on the Gold Coast to celebrate innovation, leadership and excellence in community pharmacy.
Conference Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM thanked all delegates, sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and suppliers for their contribution to another outstanding APP, reinforcing the conference's reputation as the largest and most influential pharmacy event in the Southern Hemisphere.
According to Mr Sclavos, APP2026 delivered an energising program designed to equip pharmacists with insights, skills and confidence to meet the evolving needs of their communities.
"Our aim is always for attendees to leave APP feeling inspired, informed and ready to turn opportunity into action," Mr Sclavos said. "APP2026 once again demonstrated the strength, professionalism and innovation of community pharmacy across Australia."
Mr Sclavos also acknowledged the broader pharmacy and health sector that supports APP each year.
"APP would not be possible without the commitment of our industry partners and suppliers, and we are grateful for their ongoing support," he said.
APP2026 featured strong representation from government, reflecting the critical role community pharmacy plays within Australia's health system. The conference was honoured to welcome the Premier of Queensland, the Hon David Crisafulli MP, as well as the Federal Minister for Health, the Hon Mark Butler MP, and Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care, Senator the Hon Anne Ruston, who addressed delegates during the program.
Their attendance underscored the importance of collaboration between government and community pharmacy in improving access to care and delivering better health outcomes for patients nationwide.
The conference program featured a compelling lineup of keynote speakers, including Walter Mikac AM, who delivered a powerful address on resilience, leadership and community, and Jana Pittman AM, who shared her insights on high performance, adaptability and personal growth. Their presentations resonated strongly with delegates and were among the most talked about sessions of the conference.
The Trade Exhibition once again showcased the scale and vibrancy of the pharmacy sector, with over 450 exhibitors presenting the latest products, technologies and professional services across an expansive exhibition floor that remained busy throughout the conference.
APP2026 also celebrated excellence in community pharmacy, recognising outstanding individuals and businesses whose dedication continues to make a meaningful difference to patient care and the broader health system through the National Pharmacy Awards.
This year's national winners are:
- Community Pharmacy of the Year: Capital Chemist Bathurst (NSW)
- Student Pharmacist of the Year: Mia Shinkfield (TAS)
- Community Pharmacist of the Year: Molly McGuire (QLD)
- MIMS / College Intern of the Year 2025: Ruby Schembri (NSW)
"The achievements celebrated at APP highlight the impact community pharmacy has every day in communities across Australia," Mr Sclavos said. "They set a benchmark for excellence and inspire our profession into the future."
With APP2026 now complete, planning is already underway for APP2027, which will gather the pharmacy profession together for another world class event from 18-20 March 2027 at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Mr Sclavos also extended his appreciation to Tourism and Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast for their valued support of APP2026.
