The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Victoria Branch welcomes the Victorian Government's decision to enable community pharmacists to prescribe oral contraception for women aged 18 and over from July this year.
This reform will significantly improve access to reproductive healthcare and reduce pressure on the state's primary care system.
Since October 2023, trained community pharmacists participating in the state's successful Community Pharmacist Program have been able to resupply select hormonal contraception without a prescription for women. 17,000 women have already successfully accessed this service.
Under the newly announced expanded model, appropriately trained Victorian pharmacists will be able to initiate oral contraception for eligible patients, offering greater choice, convenience and timely access to care.
Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Victoria Branch President, George Tambassis said the announcement marks a major step forward for women's healthcare in Victoria.
"This is a practical, patient-focused reform that will make it easier for Victorian women to access the contraception they need, when they need it," George Tambassis said.
"Community pharmacies are often open for extended hours, do not require appointments, and are in almost every community across the state.
"By enabling pharmacists to prescribe oral contraception following additional accredited clinical training, the Victorian Government is improving access to care while maintaining strong safety and quality standards."
Under the model, pharmacists will be required to complete approved additional clinical training before providing the service.
The Guild said the change would be particularly beneficial for women in regional and rural Victoria, where access to primary care can be more limited.
"Almost every Victorian lives within a short distance of a community pharmacy," George Tambassis said.
"This reform means women will have more choice, faster access, and the confidence of knowing they can speak to a highly trained and trusted healthcare professional close to home."
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Victoria Branch looks forward to working closely with the Victorian Government to support training, implementation and public awareness to ensure the service is delivered safely and effectively across the state.
