NACCHO is excited to announce the launch of the 2024 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacy Leadership Grant, a significant initiative supported by Pfizer Australia. This grant aims to support two early to mid-career Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists or pharmacy students to develop invaluable leadership skills through an international and cross-cultural experience. By empowering future Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacist leaders, we aim to amplify their voices, advocate for community needs, and enhance the cultural safety and effectiveness of healthcare delivery.
The grant offers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists and pharmacy students the opportunity to embark on an international journey to exchange experiences, gain knowledge, and foster leadership capabilities. Through interactions with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacist representatives in other countries, grant holders will build networks, share best practices, and identify effective strategies. Grant recipients will return to Australia and share their insights with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector.
Building the skills of future Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacist leaders is a critical part of ensuring improved visibility of the profession for prospective Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and allowing leaders to champion the priorities and medicines needs of Aboriginal and Torres strait Islander people across the health sector, including improving the cultural safety, appropriateness, and effectiveness of care.
In light of the pressing need for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation in the pharmacy profession, this opportunity is just one small step towards addressing the disparity. Out of over 35,000 pharmacists in Australia only around 100 identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, representing less than 0.3% of the pharmacist workforce. Initiatives like these are essential for creating pathways to leadership within the profession.
The grant, funded by Pfizer Australia, includes up to $15,000 for travel and accommodation per successful applicant.
Download application form
