In this episode of the Calm the Pharm podcast, host Sarah Stoddart explores the complex requirements of pharmacy location rules, specifically focusing on the legal necessity that the proposed premises can operate as a pharmacy under relevant local and state laws pertaining to land development. This marks the fourth and final discussion on the general pharmacy requirements.

Sarah breaks down the convoluted requirement that, at all relevant times—which includes the application submission and the time it is assessed—applicants need to prove that the land where the pharmacy will be located is appropriately zoned according to local government laws. This necessity stems from the fact that various areas are subject to different zoning classifications, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or rural. Pharmacies are generally found in commercial or retail zones, as industrial zones typically do not allow such establishments due to inconsistencies with zoning laws.

To demonstrate compliance with zoning requirements, Sarah suggests examining the local planning scheme applicable to the proposed pharmacy location. This scheme outlines zoning maps and enables applicants to determine the classification of the intended site. Local council websites often provide tools for conducting zoning searches, allowing pharmacy owners to see how a specific address is categorised. From there, applicants need to identify the zoning, its purpose, and the permitted uses defined by the planning scheme.

In cases where an online search isn't feasible, applicants might need to contact local councils or town planners to clarify what is permissible for that land. Additionally, for newer developments, providing a copy of the development approval can be beneficial.

To close the episode, Sarah encourages listeners to subscribe and engage with the Calm the Pharm podcast as new content continues to be released throughout 2026. She also highlights her participation in the upcoming APP conference on the Gold Coast, where she'll deliver a presentation on essential clauses for protecting pharmacy partnerships. Overall, the episode aims to equip pharmacy owners with necessary insights to navigate legal requirements confidently.

Calm The Pharm is brought to you by your host, Sarah Stoddart. Sarah is the founder and director of Vitality Law Australia, a boutique law firm which provides small business owners and healthcare professionals across Australia with clear legal pathways and peace of mind. She is recognised as a leader in the healthcare industry and is one of only a few lawyers in Australia with specialist experience working with pharmacy businesses. 

In 2021, Sarah was named the Lawyers Weekly Women in Law Australian Sole Practitioner of the Year. She was also named as a finalist in the AusMumpreneur Business Awards. In 2022, she was named as a finalist in the Women in Business Awards for The Hills and Districts Chamber of Commerce, the Australian Law Awards and again in the Women in Law Awards. 

Sarah is the co-author of business book, “Courage and Confidence”. The book is a collection of inspirational stories combined with practical tools, tips and advice written by a small group of Australian women in business.  She is also a non-executive director of MS Queensland.

www.vitalitylawaustralia.com

Instagram: @vitalitylawaustralia

Facebook: Vitality Law Australia

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-stoddart-23b92240/