STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms ROBERTS (Pearce) (16:05): The incorporated speech read as follows— Next Friday, 25 September, we mark World Pharmacists Day, a day to recognise and celebrate the vital role pharmacists play in keeping our communities healthy, safe and well cared for. Pharmacists are often the first point of contact when people have concerns about their health. They provide trusted advice, ensure medicines are used safely and effectively, and support patients managing chronic conditions.

In recent years, their role has expanded significantly. Across Australia, trained pharmacists can now treat common conditions such as urinary tract infections and mild skin conditions and provide vaccinations and travel health advice, reducing pressure on GPs and improving access to care, especially in our local communities in Pearce. In Western Australia, our 700 community pharmacies are delivering more patient services than ever before, from immunisations to pharmacist led care, making a real difference to families across our electorate.

Pharmacists are also playing an important role in mental health support, harm reduction and helping people navigate the health system, often without an appointment and at no extra cost. On behalf of the community of Pearce, I thank our pharmacists for their dedication, expertise and compassion. Your work strengthens our health system and improves lives every single day.

Happy World Pharmacists Day.