The Victorian Government has announced an $18 million investment to make the Victorian Community Pharmacist Statewide Pilot (the Pilot) permanent and expand the conditions pharmacists can treat patients for in Victoria.
Announced as part of the 2025-26 Budget, the expansion of healthcare services available in community pharmacies will now include treatment for 22 everyday health conditions, including asthma, nausea, ear infections, wound management and type 2 diabetes.
The state government will fund pharmacist consultation fees for the expanded program, so patients will be able to access the care they need without an out-of-pocket cost. This commitment makes Victoria the only State or Territory where there is no out-of-pocket cost for patients to visit a community pharmacy for a consultation for these expanded healthcare services.