RAVEN'S Recruitment has launched an innovative visa program aimed at addressing the ongoing pharmacist workforce shortage across the country.
The program targets international pharmacy graduates who have completed the Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences (KAPS) exam, offering them a streamlined path to complete their internships in Australia.
Raven's Recruitment Director Alan Sutton highlighted the program's potential to connect qualified international healthcare professionals with underserved communities in Australia.
"These professionals are qualified and eager to contribute; they just need an opportunity," Sutton told PD.
The program provides pharmacy owners with a "turnkey solution" by handling the visa process, allowing them to sponsor and employ KAPS-qualified pharmacists with ease.
Through the Subclass 407 Training Visa, interns can complete their training and, if successful, transition to the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa for extended employment.
Key benefits include the ability for overseas pharmacists to complete their internships in any Australian location, not just rural or remote areas, and the flexibility of paying interns a local rate rather than the higher salary required under other visa types.
"While it's not possible to be definitive, provided both the owner and intern lodge their paperwork promptly, a 407 Trainingvisa can be obtained in aroundthree to four months," said Sutton.
The initiative is seen as a cost-effective approach, with total visa fees in the vicinity of $4,000 for pharmacy owners.
Sutton acknowledged the risks of interns leaving employers after their internships but emphasised that such risks are present in any internship program.
He expressed optimism that the program will alleviate staffing shortages especially in rural areas.
"This visa program aims to provide a sustainable solution, allowing international professionals to build long-term careers in Australian pharmacies while helping communities in need of healthcare support," Sutton said.
Earlier this year, Raven's organised the Pharmacy Careers Summit 2024, supported by media partner Pharmacy Daily. JG
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