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Melbourne community pharmacist named inaugural Vaccination Ambassador

23 July 2025

 

 

Following a nationwide search, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has proudly appointed Melbourne based community pharmacist Anna Theophilos MPS as its inaugural Vaccination Ambassador.

 

Anna was selected for her passion, dedication and advocacy in the vaccination space. In aged care, she is pioneering systems that ensure residents receive timely access to all NIP and private vaccines. By introducing streamlined digital tools, facilities can immediately identify local vaccination gaps, while governing bodies are supported with live coverage data at the click of a button. From innovative outreach clinics to tailored services for children with sensory needs, her work reflects the evolving role of pharmacists in improving immunisation access for priority population groups.

 

As Vaccination Ambassador, Anna will work alongside PSA to elevate the voice of pharmacist immunisers across the country, driving public confidence and promoting vaccination to more Australians. Stepping into her role, Mrs Theophilos is set to host the dedicated vaccination stream on day two of PSA25.

 

“I’m incredibly honoured to be serving as the inaugural PSA National Vaccination Ambassador, a role that reflects my reflects my deep commitment to improving access to healthcare through immunisation delivery,” said Mrs Theophilos.

 

“My focus has always been on making immunisation easier and more accessible, particularly for those who might otherwise miss out. Whether it’s residents in aged care, children with sensory needs, or homebound individuals, we need systems that meet people where they are – not the other way around.

 

“Pharmacists are one of the most versatile and logical health professionals to lead this work. We are trusted, accessible, and embedded in the communities we serve. I’m excited to work with PSA to champion our profession and help ensure every Australian has the opportunity to stay protected.”

 

PSA sincerely thanks the extraordinary pharmacists who put themselves forward for this opportunity.

 

Support from our partners

 

The PSA Vaccination Ambassador initiative has brought together leading vaccination manufacturers to champion the lifesaving impact of pharmacist immunisation. PSA thanks GSK, Pfizer, CSL Seqirus, and Sanofi for their continued support.

 

Quote attributable to GSK Pharmacy Clinical Services Lead, Maggie Chow: “GSK is proud to support the inaugural PSA Vaccine Ambassador Awards, recognising the exceptional contributions of pharmacy professionals who champion vaccination care in communities across Australia. Congratulations to all nominees and the PSA for showcasing how pharmacists have embraced scope of practice change to enhance public health.”

 

Quote attributable to Pfizer Australia & New Zealand Managing Director, Anne Harris: “Pharmacists play a vital role in their communities by delivering essential healthcare services. This initiative will assist in improving vaccination access for all Australians. Pfizer Australia is proud to support PSA’s inaugural Vaccination Ambassador Program, and we congratulate Anna Theophilos for her commitment to enhancing preventative health and keeping Australians healthy.”

 

Quote attributable to CSL Seqirus Medical Director, Vaccines & Biosecurity, Dr Jules Bayliss: “Vaccination is one of the most important public health interventions and pharmacists are playing an increasingly essential role in enabling access, improving uptake and preventing disease. As an Australian company, CSL is proud to be supporting the PSA Vaccination Ambassador Program.”

 

Quote attributable to Sanofi General Manager Vaccines, Australia, New Zealand & South Korea, Mike Zhang: “As a long-standing partner in Australia’s healthcare ecosystem, Sanofi proudly supports the PSA’s inaugural Vaccination Ambassador program. This initiative recognises pharmacists’ vital role in protecting community health and improving vaccination access. We congratulate Anna Theophilos on her outstanding contribution to public health through pharmacy practice.”

 

 

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