Minister Butler, Senator Ruston and QLD Premier Crisafulli to address delegates at APP2026

Media Release
18 February 2026

Professor Trent Twomey, National President of The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, is pleased to announce that APP2026 will be opened by QLD’s Premier Crisafulli on Thursday 12 March, with addresses from the Minister and Shadow Minister on Friday 13 March 2026.

Hon Mark Butler MP, Federal Minister for Health and Ageing and Senator Anne Ruston, Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care will return to the Australasian Pharmacy Professional Conference and Trade Exhibition (APP2026) to deliver a keynote address on Friday 13 March 2026.

“The Pharmacy Guild is delighted to welcome Minister Butler and Senator Ruston back to the APP stage in 2026,” said Professor Twomey. “They continue to demonstrate strong commitment to strengthening community pharmacy, particularly through recent policy work to support the sustainability of health care access and affordability.”

Professor Twomey noted that Minister Butler’s attendance comes at an important time for the sector. “With major national conversations underway about the future of primary health, workforce capacity, and equitable access to patient services, the Minister’s insights will be invaluable to pharmacists and pharmacy owners across the country.”

Conference Convenor, Kos Sclavos AM, also welcomed the announcement. “Minister Butler and Senator Ruston have been valued contributors to APP over several years, and we appreciate them making time to join us again in 2026,” Mr Sclavos said. “Delegates will be keen to hear their perspective on upcoming health reforms, the ongoing implementation of expanded scope initiatives, and the role community pharmacy will play in supporting Australia’s evolving healthcare system.”

Mr Sclavos encouraged any delegates who have not yet registered to secure their place.
“APP2026 is shaping up to be one of our strongest programs yet, with an exceptional line up of presenters, workshops and panel discussions,” he said. “The conference provides unmatched professional development opportunities and a chance to engage directly with industry leaders, innovators and peers.”

Mr Sclavos also reminded delegates to keep an eye on the program as the event approaches. “As always, we’ll continue to refine the schedule, and we encourage attendees to check for any last minute updates.”

Taking place on the Gold Coast from 12–14 March, APP2026 is expected to welcome more than 8,000 pharmacy professionals to explore key issues including the advancing scope of practice, community pharmacy sustainability, and emerging clinical service opportunities.

The Minister and Shadow Minister will address APP delegates at 8.30am on Friday 13 March at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in the Arena.

APP2026 is supported by Tourism and Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast.