Are you planning to migrate to Australia as a Pharmacy Technician? One of the key requirements for skilled migration is achieving a positive Skills Assessment through VETASSESS. This assessment confirms that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for the occupation Pharmacy Technician – ANZSCO Code 311215.
This step-by-step guide will help you understand the Pharmacy Technician Skills Assessment process, including eligibility criteria, qualification and employment requirements, required documents, fees, and expert tips to ensure success.
What does a Pharmacy Technician do in Australia?
According to ANZSCO, a Pharmacy Technician fills and labels patients’ prescriptions under the supervision of a Pharmacist. They may also record details of, place orders for, take stock of, and store medications and medical supplies and deliver them to patients.
The role involves supporting pharmacists in the preparation and dispensing of medicines, managing inventory, and ensuring the safe and efficient supply of pharmaceutical products.
Accepted Job Titles for Skills Assessment
The following titles are accepted under ANZSCO 311215:
Pharmacy Technician
Dispensary Technician
Not accepted under this code:
Hospital Pharmacist
Retail Pharmacist
Pharmacy Sales Assistant
These occupations are classified elsewhere in ANZSCO or are not at the required skill level.
Qualification Requirements
This occupation belongs to VETASSESS Group D, which requires a qualification comparable to at least an AQF Certificate III or higher.
Highly relevant fields of study include:
– Pharmacy
– Community Pharmacy
– Community Pharmacy Dispensary
– Hospital or Health Services Pharmacy Support
Other pharmacy-related qualifications may also be accepted if the employment is highly relevant to the Pharmacy Technician role.
Accepted qualification levels include:
– AQF Certificate III
– AQF Certificate IV
– AQF Diploma or higher
A positive assessment requires both qualification and employment to meet the required criteria.
Work Experience Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate paid, highly relevant employment (at least 20 hours per week) that matches the role of Pharmacy Technician.
Key duties should include:
– Referring prescriptions to Pharmacists and assisting in preparing medications
– Filling and labelling prescriptions under the supervision of a Pharmacist
– Recording details of, placing orders for, taking stock of, and storing medications and supplies
– Delivering prescribed medications to patients
– Managing pharmacy stock levels and inventory
– Compounding medications under supervision
– Supporting Pharmacists with audits, reports, and medication reviews
Applicants should note that employment as a Pharmacist cannot be assessed positively under this occupation, as it represents a different qualification and skill level. Similarly, roles involving the sale of non-prescription goods (such as Pharmacy Sales Assistants) are not suitable.
Employment Context
Pharmacy Technicians may work in community pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, aged care facilities, or healthcare clinics.
They play a vital role in supporting Pharmacists by managing prescriptions, stock control, and medication records while ensuring compliance with storage and handling standards.
There are currently no legal licensing or registration requirements for Pharmacy Technicians in Australia, but most employers expect formal qualifications and hands-on experience in pharmacy operations.
Skills Assessment Pathways
VETASSESS provides four different pathways depending on qualification and work experience:
Pathway | Qualification | Work Experience Required
1 | AQF Certificate III or higher (highly relevant major) | 1 year (within the last 5 years)
2 | AQF Certificate III or higher + additional relevant qualification | 1 year (within the last 5 years)
3 | AQF Certificate III (no relevant major) | 2 years + 1 year (within the last 5 years)
4 | No qualification (relevant work experience only) | 3 years + 1 year (within the last 5 years) = 4 years total
A positive outcome requires that both qualification and employment meet VETASSESS requirements.
Required Document Checklist
Before applying, prepare the following documents:
– Passport (bio page)
– CV / Resume
– Qualification certificates and transcripts
– Employment reference letters with detailed duties and employment dates
– Payslips, tax records, or bank statements as proof of payment
– Position description or workplace evidence (if available)
Ensure all documents are certified, consistent, and clearly legible before submission.
VETASSESS Fees and Processing Time
Application Type | Within Australia (incl. GST) | Outside Australia (excl. GST)
Standard Application | AUD $1,205.60 | AUD $1,096.00
Priority Processing | AUD $907.50 | AUD $825.00
Processing Times:
Standard: 10–12 weeks (after document acceptance)
Priority: 10 business days (additional fee required)
All payments are made directly through the VETASSESS online portal.
Application Process – Step-by-Step
- Gather and prepare all required documents
- Submit your application online via the VETASSESS portal
- Respond promptly to any document requests or clarifications
- Receive your outcome letter for visa or employment use
Expert Tips for Success
– Ensure your work experience includes core Pharmacy Technician tasks, not general sales or cashier work
– Highlight your technical knowledge of pharmacy operations and drug handling procedures
– Reference letters must describe duties that align with VETASSESS standards
– Emphasise experience working under a registered Pharmacist’s supervision
– Maintain consistency between your resume, references, and qualification details
Why Choose Number One Service?
At Number One Service, we provide comprehensive assistance for your Pharmacy Technician Skills Assessment.
Our professional support includes:
– Free eligibility assessment
– Drafting reference letters and statutory declarations
– Reviewing and verifying documents for compliance
– Assisting with all parts of the Skills Assessment process
We are proud of our 100% success rate and commitment to supporting every client with care and accuracy.
Start Your Pharmacy Technician Skills Assessment Today!
Call or WhatsApp: 0421 300 976
Email: info@numberoneservice.com.au
Website: www.numberoneservice.com.au
Our experienced team is ready to help you achieve your Skills Assessment success with confidence.
Important Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only. Migration policies and Skills Assessment requirements may change. Always refer to the official websites of VETASSESS and the Department of Home Affairs, or consult a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
