If you run a pharmacy, you know the feeling. Between managing staff, serving patients, and keeping the dispensary running smoothly, finding time to read through a 22-page Pharmacy Industry Award 2026 Fair Work document just isn’t on the agenda.
But here’s the thing – the Pharmacy Industry Award [MA000012] has been updated, and the new rates take effect from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2026.
Whether you’re a pharmacy owner, a locum pharmacist, or a pharmacy manager, staying on top of these changes isn’t just good practice – it’s your legal obligation. So, let’s cut through the jargon and break down exactly what’s changed.
What’s New in the Pharmacy Award 2026?
Fair Work has released the updated pay guide for the Pharmacy Industry Award, and there are increases across all classifications. Here’s a snapshot of the new weekly and hourly base rates you need to know:
| Classification | Weekly Rate | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy Assistant – Level 1 | $1,056.80 | $27.81 |
| Pharmacy Assistant – Level 2 | $1,081.00 | $28.45 |
| Pharmacy Assistant – Level 3 | $1,119.10 | $29.45 |
| Pharmacy Assistant – Level 4 | $1,165.10 | $30.66 |
| Pharmacist | $1,586.30 | $41.74 |
| Experienced Pharmacist | $1,737.40 | $45.72 |
| Pharmacist in Charge | $1,778.40 | $46.80 |
| Pharmacist Manager | $1,981.60 | $52.15 |
These rates apply to full-time employees. Part-time and casual staff receive their entitlements on a pro-rata basis, with casuals also receiving a casual loading on top of the base rate.
Penalty Rates Have Also Changed
It’s not just the base rates that have been updated. The new award also adjusts penalty rates for:
Morning work (7am–8am, Monday–Friday)
Evening work (7pm–9pm, Monday–Friday)
Late evening work (9pm–midnight, Monday–Friday)
Saturday shifts (with different rates for morning, daytime, and evening)
Sunday shifts (daytime and late night)
Public holidays
Overtime (first 2 hours, after 2 hours, Sunday overtime, and public holiday overtime)
For example, a Pharmacist working a Sunday now attracts a rate of $62.61 per hour** (7am–9pm) or **$83.48 per hour before 7am and after 9pm. Public holiday rates for Pharmacists jump to $104.35 per hour.
These penalties add up quickly, especially if you’re running a 7-day pharmacy or regularly rostering staff for late nights.
Don’t Forget the Allowances
The updated award also includes various allowances that may apply to your staff:
| Allowance | Rate |
|---|---|
| District allowance – Broken Hill | $47.90 per week |
| HMR/RMMR allowance | $106.40 per week |
| Laundry allowance (full-time) | $6.42 per week |
| Laundry allowance (part-time/casual) | $1.28 per shift |
| Meal allowance – overtime | $24.72 (plus $22.15 for >4 hours overtime) |
| Motor vehicle allowance | $1.01 per km |
Make sure you’re checking whether any of your staff are entitled to these additional payments.
Why Getting This Right Matters
Underpaying staff – even accidentally – can lead to serious consequences. Fair Work has been cracking down on wage theft, and the penalties can be severe. Beyond the legal risks, getting payroll wrong damages trust with your team and can make it harder to attract and retain quality pharmacists and assistants.
The good news? You don’t have to navigate this alone.
How Pharmacy SOS Can Help
At Pharmacy SOS, we’ve been supporting pharmacies since 2009. We know the ins and outs of the Pharmacy Industry Award, and we’re here to help you stay compliant.
Whether you need:
Payroll advice – ensuring your locums and permanent staff are paid correctly
Locum placement – finding reliable pharmacists when you need them, with the 60 Minute Locum Service Or It’s FREE! guarantee
Permanent recruitment – finding the right fit for your team with our 30-day satisfaction guarantee
We’ve got you covered.
Ready to Review the Full Document?
The complete Fair Work pay guide for the Pharmacy Industry Award is available on the Fair Work Ombudsman website. But if you have questions about how these changes affect your specific situation, we’re here to help.
Call us on 1300 505 247 or email sos@pharmacysos.com.au – we’re available 24/7.
Don’t leave compliance to chance. Let’s make sure your pharmacy is paying correctly, staying compliant, and running smoothly.