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Pharmacist Salary in Canberra

Healthcare

Pharmacists dispense medications, provide drug information, and advise on safe medication use.

Average Salary
$102,600
per year
Take-Home Pay
$77,954
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$76-140k
$103K
$76K$140K

Job Market Outlook

Medium AI Risk

Mixed work with some tasks that AI can assist or automate

In Demand

More jobs than qualified candidates in Australia

+8% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

Sources: Microsoft Research 2025, Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Occupation Shortage List

Pharmacist Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Canberra

Based on the average Pharmacist salary of $102,600 in Canberra, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$102,600$102,600
Income Tax-$21,568-$21,568
Medicare Levy (2%)-$2,052-$2,052
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$4,104
Superannuation (11%)+$11,286+$11,286
Annual Take-Home$77,954$73,850
Monthly Take-Home$6,496$6,154
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,998$2,840

Calculate Your Exact Take-Home Pay

Enter your actual salary to see a personalized breakdown including your specific tax situation, HECS debt, and family status.

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Your salary
$103,000
Take-home$77,954
Tax-$21,568
Super+$11,286

How to Become a Pharmacist

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Pharmacist in Australian Capital Territory.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Pharmacy from an accredited university
  • Registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia (AHPRA)
  • Completion of supervised practice (intern year)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Postgraduate qualifications in clinical pharmacy
  • Hospital pharmacy experience
  • Research experience
Relevant Certifications
Accredited Pharmacist (for medication reviews)Immunisation pharmacist certificationBoard certification in specialty areas

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$62KEntry$103KMid$123KSenior$154KLead
Entry Level

Intern Pharmacist

$61,560
estimated in Canberra
0-1 years
Mid Level

Pharmacist

$102,600
estimated in Canberra
1-5 years
Senior Level

Senior / Clinical Pharmacist

$123,120
estimated in Canberra
5-10 years
Leadership

Pharmacy Manager / Owner

$153,900
estimated in Canberra
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Clinical medication reviewsVaccination servicesChronic disease managementCompoundingDigital health and telepharmacy

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Consider hospital internships for clinical experience
  2. 2Rural and regional areas offer higher salaries and ownership opportunities
  3. 3Get accredited for medication reviews and vaccinations
  4. 4Pharmacy ownership remains a viable path to higher earnings
  5. 5Stay updated with expanding scope of practice opportunities

Career information is general guidance based on industry standards. Requirements may vary by employer and location.

Pharmacist Hourly Rate in Canberra

Based on a standard 38-hour work week (Australian full-time hours):

Entry Level
$38/hr
Average
$52/hr
Senior
$71/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Pharmacist earn in Canberra?

The average Pharmacist salary in Canberra is $102,600 per year, or approximately $52 per hour. Salaries range from $75,600 to $140,400 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Pharmacist in Canberra?

A Pharmacist earning $102,600 in Canberra takes home approximately $77,954 per year after tax, or $6,496 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $73,850 per year.

How much do Pharmacists make per hour in Canberra?

Pharmacists in Canberra earn approximately $52 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $38/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $71/hour.

Is Canberra a good place to work as a Pharmacist?

Canberra offers Pharmacist salaries among the highest in Australia at $102,600. The city has a cost of living index of 92 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Pharmacist Salaries in Canberra

The average Pharmacist in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory earns $102,600 per year, or approximately $52 per hour. Salaries typically range from $75,600 for entry-level positions to $140,400 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Pharmacist earning the average salary in Canberra can expect to take home approximately $77,954 per year, or $6,496 per month.

Canberra is home to approximately 460,000 people and has a cost of living index of 92 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Canberra are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Pharmacist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $75,600, while senior roles can reach $140,400.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Pharmacist roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Canberra's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Pharmacists earn $$38-$71 per hour.

Salary data is based on industry reports, job postings, and government statistics. Individual salaries may vary based on experience, qualifications, and employer. Tax calculations are estimates for the 2024-25 financial year.