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Parliamentary Committee supports pharmacist-initiated UTI treatment in SA

27 September 2023

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the final report of the Select Committee on Access to Urinary Tract Infection Treatment tabled in the South Australian Parliament today.

The report recommends that:

  • antibiotic medication to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) be made available from South Australian pharmacists;
  • the program be permanent; and
  • that the model be implemented as soon as practicable.

 

PSA South Australia and Northern Territory President Dr Manya Angley FPS-AACPA welcomed the report’s recommendations, calling on Health Minister Chris Picton MP to accept them in full.

 

“By implementing the Committee’s recommendations, the South Australian Government has the opportunity to improve access to care for patients across our state,” Dr Angley said.

 

“Almost all Australians will soon have access to treatment for UTIs from their local pharmacist as more programs are stood up. We cannot let South Australia fall behind.

 

“Regional and rural communities across South Australia will benefit enormously from being able to access treatment from their local pharmacist, freeing up our hardworking rural GPs for more complex patient needs.

“We know that around half of women will experience a UTI in their lifetime, and that timely access to treatment is key to alleviating discomfort and preventing further complications or hospitalisation.

 

“As healthcare professionals we have a duty to provide timely, appropriate care to our patients, which means empowering our communities to access care in a way that best suits them.

“PSA strongly supports the recommendations made in the Committee’s final report, and calls on the Minister to action them as soon as possible.

“I join pharmacists across South Australia in saying that we forward to working with the Minister and SA Health to ensure that the program is implemented with the needs of patients at its core,” Dr Angley concluded.

​The Select Committee on Access to Urinary Tract Infection Treatment’s final report can be found here.

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Ongoing contraceptive supply trial to begin this week

27 September 2023

 

Following an announcement from Health Minister Ryan Park MP, New South Wales has become the first Australian jurisdiction to authorise the extended supply of oral contraceptives by pharmacists under the NSW Pharmacy Trial.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) New South Wales President Luke Kelly FPS welcomed the start of the program, which was first announced in November 2022.

“Improving safe access to contraception is essential to improving health care for all Australians,” Mr Kelly said.

“Pharmacists participating in the trial will be able to continue the supply of an existing low-risk contraceptive without renewed prescription, better supporting contraceptive adherence as well as saving patients time and money.

“This trial will make oral contraception more accessible to more women in New South Wales.

“Pharmacists are ready and able to improve healthcare for all Australians, offering safe, accessible, and equitable access to contraception and expert advice on their options.

“Pharmacists are the most accessible health care professional and are well placed to support patients in accessing timely care.

“This is about making sure that Australians can access safe contraception when and where they need it,’ Mr Kelly concluded.

 

NSW Pharmacists can enrol in the NSW – Contraception Essentials training program here.

 

For more information on the NSW Pharmacy Trial, visit NSW Health.

 

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Vale Ross Brown AM FPS

26 September 2023

 

Ross Brown

(Image courtesy of Australian Pharmacist)

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has paid tribute to Ross Brown AM FPS, PSA’s second National President (1979-1980), who sadly passed away over the weekend.

Mr Brown also served as councillor on PSA’s New South Wales Branch for 40 years, was one of Australia’s highest ranked Army Reserve officers, and a former Director and Deputy Board Chair at Australian Pharmaceutical Industries (API).

Since his registration in 1952, Mr Brown dedicated much of his time to developing Australian pharmacy into what we know it as today, pioneering the use of computers in Australian pharmacy when he oversaw the installation of the country’s second ever IBM 360 computer at Australian Pharmaceutical Industries Limited.

PSA National President Dr Fei Sim FPS paid tribute to Mr Brown.

“Ross Brown was an inspiration, he set the foundation for the PSA during his years as our National President and we will always remember the significant contribution he has made to PSA and the profession more broadly.

‘He is widely recognised as one of the greatest modern contributors to the combined development of pharmacy professional services, corporate pharmacy, military pharmacy and academic pharmacy in New South Wales and Australia.

“Ross was a tireless advocate for our profession, his support instrumental to the success of the University of Sydney’s Pharmacy School and the Pharmacy Practice Foundation as well as the establishment of the Ross Brown (AM) Scholarship for elite athletes studying pharmacy.

 

“On behalf of all pharmacists, my deepest condolences are with the Brown family, their friends, and many colleagues around Australia,” Dr Sim concluded.

​Read more about Mr Brown’s impressive career here.

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Pharmacist scope pilot to expand, improving access to care for all Queenslanders

25 September 2023

 

This World Pharmacists Day, Queensland Health Minister Shannon Fentiman MP has announced that the North Queensland Pharmacy Scope of Practice Pilot will be expanded statewide, allowing pharmacists to administer a wider range of vaccines and prescribe medicines for common health conditions.

Speaking at FIP World Congress in Brisbane this afternoon, Minister Fentiman confirmed that participating pharmacists will be able to administer more types of vaccines, and prescribe treatments such as:

  • The oral contraceptive pill
  • Asthma medication
  • Nausea and vomiting medication
  • Nasal congestion and runny nose medication
  • Mild skin condition treatments
  • Some heart disease risk reduction
  • Support to quit smoking

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s (PSA’s) Queensland President Shane MacDonald MPS welcomed the announcement.

“Pharmacists in Queensland are an integral part of the primary healthcare system, providing a range of services and access to care for all communities.

“The Minister’s announcement is a welcome step toward improving access to care for patients around the state and allowing for a greater number of Queensland pharmacists to practise to their top of scope.

“All Queenslanders will benefit from being able to access timely, quality care from their local pharmacist.

“Queensland has often led the nation on pharmacist scope of practice. Other jurisdictions are watching the results of trials here in Queensland and following suit.

“This is a vote of confidence from the Queensland Government in the skills and expertise of our pharmacists, which PSA looks forward to supporting during its implementation.”

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Toward Pharmacists in 2030: Launch of Consultation Paper

25 September 2023

 

 

This World Pharmacists Day, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has launched consultation for its primary future vision report Pharmacists in 2030 due for release next year.

Pharmacists in 2030 will follow on from PSA’s Pharmacists in 2023 report to set the agenda for the next 6 years, empowering pharmacists to meet the changing needs of Australians and our health system.

 

PSA invites pharmacists, industry stakeholders, and the broader Australian community to provide invaluable feedback on the future of pharmacy through the Pharmacists in 2030 consultation process. It is an opportunity to participate in the creation of a plan that will not only guide the future of the profession, but also contribute to a healthier, more accessible healthcare system for all.

 

Alongside the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) President Mr Paul Sinclair MPS and other pharmacy leaders in addressing the opening plenary of the International FIP World Congress this morning, PSA National President Dr Fei Sim FPS said Australia’s healthcare system is under unprecedented pressures, exacerbated by the evolving health needs of our aging population.

 

“Building on the success and momentum of Pharmacists in 2023, now is the time to look forward to 2030 and set an even more ambitious plan for the profession,” Dr Sim said.

 

“Too many Australians are being left behind in a health system which increasingly disadvantages those who live in rural and remote areas and those who cannot afford to fund their own health care.

 

“The future we see is one where access to care safe and equitable for all Australians by utilising the expertise of pharmacists.

 

“Pharmacists are the solution to a stronger health system.

 

Pharmacists in 2030 will look at the roles pharmacists of the future can play to support patients at all stages of care. To ensure sustainability, these roles must be supported with recognition and remuneration.

 

“Our vision for Pharmacists in 2030 involves all pharmacists, in all specialist areas of practice from community to hospital to credentialed to general practice and beyond, to be empowered to work to their top and full scope of practice. This is the foundation of our pharmacists’ future.

 

“Building this vision requires the collective input and wisdom of all stakeholders, from pharmacists to government, peak bodies, private industry, and, most importantly, the patients and consumers we serve.

 

“Together, we can continue to shape the future of pharmacy and make a meaningful difference to the health of our communities.”

 

To join the conversation and share your insights, visit www.psa.org.au/pharmacistsin2030

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Queensland’s top pharmacists recognised

23 September 2023

 

Five outstanding Queensland pharmacists have been recognised at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Queensland Excellence Awards in Brisbane on Saturday evening.

Awards were presented to:

  • Jacqueline Meyer MPS, Queensland Pharmacist of the Year
  • Swapna Chaudhary MPS, Queensland Early Career Pharmacist of the Year
  • Zain Langah, Queensland Intern Pharmacist of the Year
  •  Lynette Dupuy MPS-AACPA, Lifetime Achievement Awards
  • George Kotzas MPS, Lifetime Achievement Awards.

In addition, James Oh from James Cook University was awarded the Professor James Dare Graduate of the Year award.

PSA Queensland President Shane MacDonald MPS congratulated the award winners.

“We are lucky to be home to many pharmacists who go above and beyond for their communities and patients,” Mr MacDonald said.

“Queensland has lead the way with many pharmacy programs, including UTI prescribing and vaccination, which is only possible with the skill and dedication of our pharmacists.

“Each of the award winners exemplify everything it means to be a pharmacist.

“On behalf of PSA and all Queensland pharmacists, congratulations to all the award winners on your achievements.”

 

Media notes

 

Jacqueline Meyer MPS, Queensland Pharmacist of the Year

PSA Queensland Pharmacist of the Year and Live Life Pharmacy Cooroy owner, Jacqueline Meyer embodies what it means to be a pharmacist. She is the founder and host of the Hinterland Health Expo, now in its second year, uniting health providers, building positive relationships, and facilitating collaborations between practitioners. With free community access, consumers can speak to a wide range of health professionals in a relaxed environment, fostering community accessibility, improving consumer awareness and education, and demonstrating that exhibiting practitioners prioritise community healthcare.

Jacqueline personifies her commitment to medication safety, upholding quality standards, professionalism in the industry and growing the role of pharmacists in the safe, appropriate use of medicines from dosage to education and reviewing medications. Jacqueline sits on two local Medication Advisory Committees for a palliative care hospice and the Cooroy Hospital, working collaboratively with prescribers and nurses in both environments as an integral and embedded part of this community.

Jacqueline has developed profound relationships with key health services in the local region. She also provides nurse education, antibiotic stewardship, and patient education, reinforcing the support pharmacists provide and how they are making a difference in the community. Jacqueline has also trained as a lactation consultant to fill the gap in local services, enhancing support available to mothers and increase breastfeeding rates in the region.

Jacqueline lives and breathes the values of the pharmacy profession and has been passionate about mentoring young pharmacists for many years. More than 10 PSA interns have been trained and mentored, with Jacqueline heavily investing in their development along the way. As a female business owner and mother, Jacqueline is particularly dedicated to inspiring young pharmacists establishing their careers within the profession.

 

Swapna Chaudhary MPS, Queensland Early Career Pharmacist of the Year

PSA Queensland Early Career Pharmacist of the Year Swapna Chaudhary is a passionate advocate for pharmacists to address healthcare disparities experienced by transgender and gender diverse (TGD) communities. Based on her research she believes that education to create inclusive pharmacy environments, using culturally respectful language, and training pharmacists about gender-affirming therapies will improve health outcomes for TGD people.

 

During her internship in Townsville, Swapna recognised that there was a need for pharmacists to provide better healthcare for transgender patients, involving review of medicines, counselling on medicines and hormonal treatment, adverse effects and management, and preventative healthcare, to improve their overall health. She noticed that her community pharmacy was attracting significant numbers of the transgender patients in the town – meaning that it was already seen as safe and culturally appropriate for these vulnerable patients and a good place for her to kick-start her research career.

Following on exploring both the experiences of people who are transgender visiting pharmacies in Australia and the community pharmacists, she recognised a desire and a need for training on the part of the pharmacists and indeed a lack of availability of such training. This has allowed for her to pursue her passion to provide education on transgender care for pharmacists and to bring about change to ensure that such education is an integral part of pharmacy curricula in Australia.

Swapna has demonstrated outstanding capability in her research endeavours, engaging with health professionals involved in transgender healthcare. She has been embraced by professional organisations as well as support groups working to improve transgender health, with the impact of her work and commitment already recognised.

 

Zain Langah, Queensland Intern Pharmacist of the Year

When PSA Intern Pharmacist of the Year Zain Langah made the move to Yeppoon, he made a commitment to supporting patient care and safe use of medicines for his rural community. Zain has been instrumental in rolling out a forward dispense model, while still being an optimal care pharmacist and the primary vaccinator. Zain is focussed on investing his time to ensure his patients have been heard and provides thorough counselling that is tailored to his patients and their families.

Zain is consistently looking for opportunities to upskill and has been highly involved with the pharmacy’s Opioid Dependency Treatment program, medicinal cannabis dispensing and promoting the Take Home Naloxone Program. Zain recognised that his pharmacy’s glucose monitoring service had not been well utilised and organised a local Diabetes Awareness Day, where he was able to test patients’ blood glucose levels (BGLs) and educate patient’s, specifically those on anti-diabetes medication on the importance of monitoring their BGLs.

 

James Oh, Professor James Dare Graduate of the Year

As a final year pharmacy student at James Cook University, James Oh embodies an exceptional passion for pharmacy that resonates through his words, actions, and deeds. His commitment to the betterment of his patients, colleagues, and the entire profession is palpable. His dedication goes beyond the ordinary; he invests himself heartily to ensure that those around him thrive. This selflessness is a testament to his character and his genuine desire to contribute positively.

On top of his academic success, James has remarkable leadership qualities that extend well beyond his current student status. His natural ability to lead, inspire, and influence his peers is evident in the significant impact he has already made. He is poised to become a future leader in our profession, and his contributions will undoubtedly shape its trajectory.

James’s character shines brightly. He exemplifies humility, kindness, and a genuine concern for others. His focus is not on personal gain but rather on the collective success of his patients, his profession, and his peers. This dedication is unwavering, and it is a testament to his honesty, loyalty, and indefatigable commitment to his chosen path.

 

Lynette Dupuy MPS-AACPA, Queensland Lifetime Achievement Award

For a remarkable eight decades, Dupuy’s Pharmacy has stood as a pillar in Mackay’s healthcare landscape. Established in 1933 by Kenneth Dupuy and subsequently passed on to his daughter Lynette, it held the distinction of being Mackay’s longest-running family-owned pharmacy until very recently.

Lynette, a local icon, embarked on her pharmacy career at the age of 15, spearheading the adoption of innovative health services such as clinical nutrition, compounding medicines, and vaccination administration. She bore witness to the industry’s evolution and maintained a steadfast commitment to learning international best practices and translating them into action. Recently, Lynette made the decision to sell her pharmacy to free up time for family and to continue her pursuit of studying pharmacy practice.

Read more about Lynette Dupuy’s journey here.

 

George Kotzas MPS, Queensland Lifetime Achievement Award

Born and raised in Innisfail, of Greek heritage, George’s life has intertwined with the town’s history. George’s pharmacy journey began in 1957, and in 1978, he purchased Rothnies Pharmacy, a small community pharmacy operating since 1932.

Rothnies is the genuine embodiment of a “community pharmacy”.  There is a familial bond between George, his wife Anna,  his dedicated long serving team, and the loyal patients of Innisfail.

 

A steadfast pharmacy owner, George has weathered the industry’s transformations while remaining an integral part of the community’s healthcare fabric, bridging the past and present with unwavering dedication.

George’s story isn’t just about the pharmacy; it’s about a man with a passion for the arts. He acted, directed, collected artwork, and was deeply involved in various community organisations.

George has recently retired to spend time with his family and focus on his other passions.

Read more about George Kotzas’ journey here.

 

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Pharmacists in 2030

Published in 2019, Pharmacists in 2023 was the primary report into the future role of pharmacists across Australia’s health systems.

 

The report opened with statements highlighting the Australian health system’s universality, effectiveness, and efficiency. It also highlighted megatrends which would test these vital attributes and identified ways to unlock the potential of pharmacists to help respond to these trends. What was not identified in 2019 was the extent of acceleration for these trends which the COVID-19 pandemic would bring.

 

We have come a long way to achieving the vision set out in Pharmacists in 2023. As we reach the end date on this plan, it is time to reflect on these achievements and use its successes and lessons to forge the next plan for the profession as we head towards 2030. But there is much more to do.

 

 

Consultation is now open

 

PSA is seeking input from a range of stakeholders, including pharmacists, industry, governments, peak bodies, and other health professionals. Most importantly, we want to hear from the patients and customers we serve.

 

Your views are vital to shaping a future that serves the changing needs of our communities and supports the sustainability of the health sector.

 

Read the full consultation paper here and complete the consultation survey below.

Timeline-01
September 2023

Public consultation launched



October 2023

Targeted consumer consultation



November 2023

Consultation closes



December 2023

Report development



Early 2024

Pharmacists in 2030 report launch




Pharmacists in 2030 report launch


Toward Pharmacists in 2030: Launch of Consultation Paper

25 September 2023     This World Pharmacists Day, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has launched consultation for its primary future vision report Pharmacists (…)

Pharmacists key to stronger primary care

18 September 2023

 

As the first phase of consultation opens for the Federal Government’s Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce Review (previously known as the “Scope of Practice Review), the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) is reaffirming its commitment to supporting pharmacists’ roles across the health system.

 

PSA National President Dr Fei Sim FPS said that all pharmacists in all specialty areas of practice must be empowered to work to their top of scope.

 

“Pharmacists practising to their top of scope is the key to stronger primary care,” Dr Sim said.

 

“We know that complex medicine use is on the rise, that more Australians are hospitalised due to medication misadventure, and that these trends will continue as our population ages. Allowing all pharmacists to work to our top of scope is critical to reducing medicine harm across the health system.

 

“We also know that we have a GP access crisis. Pharmacists, if fully supported, can go a long way to add to health system capacity, significantly improve timely access to primary health care by 26 million people who live in Australia.

 

“It is essential that we bring to light the full potential and worth of a pharmacist. The review should reveal the barriers impeding pharmacists practising to top of scope and remove the unnecessary and inequitable red tape hindering Australians from receiving pharmacists’ care.

 

“PSA is continuing to support pharmacists practising in specialised roles, including comprehensive medication management reviews like Home Medicines Review undertaken by credentialed pharmacists. As our scope of practice continues to evolve, we need to see pharmacists contributing to quality use of medicines and medicines safety wherever medicines are used.”

 

Chair of PSA’s Community of Speciality Interest – Interdisciplinary Team-Based Care Debbie Rigby FPS is particularly encouraging credentialed pharmacists to contribute to PSA’s submissions to the review.

 

“The Federal Government’s workforce review is an opportunity to highlight how credentialed pharmacists can better help optimise medication management to the full extent of their skills and training,” Ms Rigby said.

 

“There are many opportunities and hopes for the future including current and emerging models of care.

 

“Home Medicines Reviews and Residential Medication Management Reviews now have more than 25 years of practice and are entrenched in general practice, as well as clinical guidelines and resources.

 

“A growing number of pharmacists are working collaboratively in aged care, general practice and disability services. The Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) supports funding pharmacists in First Nations Primary Health Services, and we are eagerly awaiting the implementation of the aged care on-site pharmacists program.

 

“However, there are still problems with access and equity across all communities, including regional, rural and remote areas and disadvantaged populations. The evolution of medication reviews requires some blue sky thinking and strong advocacy.

 

“Many credentialed pharmacists have a wealth of experience and have built strong and trusted relationships with GPs on the ground. I’m pleased PSA is supporting credentialed pharmacists, listening to their views and strongly advocating for their interests.

 

Ms Rigby encourages all credentialed pharmacists to join the Interdisciplinary Team-Based Care CSI group on Facebook, and share their views and experiences to inform PSA’s advocacy.

 

Dr Sim further urges all pharmacists to remain united during critical times of change in the profession.

 

Join the ITBC CSI group here.

 

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798      E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Nation-leading partnered prescribing pilot to support Tasmanian aged care residents

14 September 2023

 

Joining pharmacists on R U OK? Day, Tasmanian Health Minister Guy Barnett MP announced that Tasmanian pharmacists will soon be able to prescribe medicines for aged care patients under a new pilot program following the release of recommendations from the Review of Tasmanian Pharmacists’ Scope of Practice, which have been accepted by the state government in full.

 

The Tasmanian Health Minister also announced that patients will soon be able to access treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs).

 

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Tasmanian President David Peachey MPS said the move demonstrated a commitment to improving accessible care for Tasmanians.

 

“I am proud to see the Tasmanian Government leading the nation on reform to best support aged care patients and our broader health system,” Mr Peachey said.

 

“It’s clear that we need to do more for our older Australians living in residential aged care. Allowing pharmacists to write repeat prescriptions or change the dose of an existing drug will free up hundreds of GP hours for complex and emerging needs.

 

“Pharmacists in many parts of Australia are already initiating treatment for uncomplicated UTIs, supporting safe, timely access to care for thousands of patients,” Mr Peachey said.

 

“Today’s announcement brings Tasmania in line with programs around the country.

 

“Pharmacists have shown that we can and should be doing more to improve patients’ access to care and strengthen the health system.”

 

Mr Peachey has also reaffirmed PSA’s support for expanding pharmacist scope of practice to better support Tasmanians.

 

“The recommendations from the Scope of Practice review are a positive step toward a health system that works for patients.

 

“Recommendations from the review will make care more accessible for many Tasmanians, from structured prescribing to medication charting.

 

“This is recognition that pharmacists can and should do more as our most accessible health care professionals. This is particularly important as we mark R U OK? Day and the role that pharmacists can play in supporting patient’s mental health.

 

“PSA is committed to working collaboratively with the Health Minister and the Tasmanian Government to progress all recommendations as soon as possible.”

 

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798      E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au

Recognising pharmacists’ role in strengthening health systems

14 September 2023

 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has today launched its World Pharmacists Day campaign, marking the international date on 25 September at the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) World Congress hosted in Brisbane later this month.

 

This year’s theme Pharmacy Strengthening Health Systems highlights the critical role pharmacists play in supporting medicine safety, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring timely access to care.

 

PSA National President Dr Fei Sim FPS emphasised the significance of this year’s theme.

 

“Pharmacists are vital to an accessible and sustainable health care system,” Dr Sim said.

 

“Considering the recent health policy changes affecting our profession, more than ever before, policymakers need to acknowledge the critical role that pharmacists play for a stronger health system.

 

“In the lead-up to World Pharmacists Day, we are highlighting the full scope in which pharmacists practise, and the significant role we play as custodians of medicine safety.

 

“The role of pharmacists has expanded significantly in recent years, from delivering a wider range of vaccines to the extended supply of oral contraceptives and pharmacist-initiated treatment for urinary tract infections. These initiatives are critical to ensure Australians can continue to access timely primary healthcare.

 

“Pharmacists across specialty areas continue to play a vital role in strengthening health systems, ensuring safe and effective use of medicines, promoting preventative care, and collaborating with the broader healthcare team to support true patient-centred care and patient-directed care.

 

“This World Pharmacists Day, we are acknowledging the vital role of pharmacists in improving patients’ access to care and as the custodians of medicine safety, and the significant impact we have on the broader health system.”

 

As part of the FIP World Congress, PSA will showcase Australian pharmacy, with a focus on pharmacists’ role in quality use of medicines including complex medication reviews, the impact of First Nations pharmacists, mental health services, and UTI prescribing trials and initiatives in the host state of Queensland, as well as New South Wales and Western Australia.

 

Pharmacists around Australia are invited to participate in World Pharmacists Day. A range of resources are available from www.psa.org.au/wpd23

 

 

Media contact:   Georgia Clarke   M: 0480 099 798  E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au