The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has acquired the Australasian College of Pharmacy (ACP) for an undisclosed amount, integrating a key provider of pharmacist education into the national professional body. This corporate acquisition aims to streamline professional development and advance pharmacy practice across Australia.
The Australasian College of Pharmacy, which also trades as the Australian College of Pharmacy, has operated continuously since 1978 as a member-based professional body. It specializes in delivering continuing professional development (CPD) activities for pharmacists, covering both clinical and business areas through eLearning technologies and distance learning. The College offers nationally recognized business and leadership qualifications, extensive CPD content, medication management review training, and supports pharmacists in gaining accreditation for various advanced services.
This acquisition is strategic for the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, Australia's peak national professional body for pharmacists. By bringing ACP's 40 years of specialized pharmacy knowledge and established educational programs under its umbrella, PSA aims to consolidate and enhance the quality and accessibility of professional development for its members and the wider pharmacy profession. The synergy is expected to create a unified and robust platform for pharmacist education, training, and research.
Expected benefits include a more cohesive approach to pharmacist training, from intern programs and advanced short courses to nationally recognized qualifications and CPD accreditation. The combined entity will be better positioned to develop and deliver quality educational and training programs that contribute directly to the advancement of the profession, ensuring pharmacists are equipped with the skills required for evolving scopes of practice. This integration is designed to foster professional growth and improve patient care outcomes by maintaining high standards of pharmacy education and continuous learning.