Capital Chemist Bathurst was named Australian Pharmacy of the Year at APP2026 last week, recognising the pharmacy’s work in patient care, innovation and community leadership.
The award celebrates pharmacies that are redefining the role of community pharmacy in Australia.
‘Demonstrating what community pharmacy can deliver’
President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia NSW Branch, Mario Barone, says the Bathurst team demonstrated what modern community pharmacy can deliver.
“Capital Chemist Bathurst has set a new benchmark for what community pharmacy can achieve when innovation is matched with a genuine commitment to patients,” he says.
“This is a pharmacy that has reimagined care delivery.
“They are not just dispensing medicines, but building services around the real needs of their community.”
National leader in community care
Led by 5 pharmacist-owners and supported by nearly 50 staff, Capital Chemist Bathurst has become a national leader in integrated, community-based care.
Its Homecare and NDIS support model has reportedly been adopted by pharmacies across Australia, and the pharmacy has “developed digital tools to improve care coordination, and built strong, trusted partnerships with local GPs, hospitals, aged care providers and veterans’ groups”.
‘Richly deserved’
Mr Barone says the pharmacy’s success reflects both clinical excellence and deep community connection.
“Their work shows what is possible when pharmacists are empowered to practise to their full scope,” he says.Â
“They are delivering accessible, high‑quality care close to home.Â
“This national recognition is richly deserved and is a proud moment not just for Bathurst, but for community pharmacy across NSW.”
