The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Northern Territory Branch, welcomes the NT Government’s decision to expand the range of vaccines pharmacists can administer, a move which will provide Territorians more choice and convenience when it comes healthcare.
‘A significant step forward for healthcare in the NT’
“The expansion of the Scheduled Substance Treatment Protocol (SSTP) is a significant step forward for healthcare in the Northern Territory,” says Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Northern Territory Branch President Peter Hatswell.
“It recognises the vital role pharmacists play in our communities and their ability to practice at the peak of their scope in vaccination services.”
Expansion of vaccination servicesÂ
The updated SSTP aligns with the Australian Immunisation Handbook (AIH), allowing pharmacists to administer any vaccine listed in the protocol to eligible individuals.
The alignment with the AIH not only broadens the range of vaccines pharmacists can provide but also brings the NT in line with other jurisdictions across Australia.
A key highlight of this expansion is the introduction of new vaccination services.
“From February 2025, expectant mothers can receive the free RSV vaccine Abrysvo® at their local pharmacy under the National Immunisation Program,” says Mr Hatswell.
“We’re also excited about the potential for pharmacies to offer the NT-funded Meningococcal B vaccine for teenagers, which would further enhance our ability to protect the health of young Territorians.
“Since 2015, NT pharmacists have demonstrated their commitment to safe and effective vaccination services.
“The new Scheduled Substance Treatment Protocol acknowledges their professional expertise and enables pharmacists to provide critical immunisation services that meet the diverse healthcare needs of Territorians.”
Pharmacists key to improving vaccination rates across the NT
With their convenient locations and extended operating hours, community pharmacies are well-positioned to improve vaccination rates and expand access to immunisation services across the NT.
The Guild says this decision will ‘undoubtedly contribute to better health outcomes for our population’.
“The Pharmacy Guild looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the NT Government to enhance primary healthcare services and ensure they remain as accessible as possible for all Territorians,” says Mr Hatswell.
