Establish a new pharmacy

What you need to know

Under section 90 of the National Health Act 1953 (Act), a pharmacist must apply to us for approval to supply PBS medicines. The Australian Community Pharmacy Authority (ACPA) considers a pharmacist’s application and makes a recommendation.

Before applying, please see the Pharmacy location rules.

How to apply

To apply for approval to establish a new pharmacy the pharmacist will need to:

determine which item of the Pharmacy Location Rules to apply under
access the PBS Approved Suppliers Portal to lodge an application – you must agree to the terms of use to access the PBS Approved Suppliers Portal
provide relevant information to support the application.

See our guide on how to submit an application to establish a new pharmacy.

See also the ACPA application process map.

If an application is recommended, prior to delegate approval, the applicant will need to provide evidence that the requirements of the relevant state or territory regulatory authority to operate a pharmacy business at the proposed premises, have been met.