PSA and PSWA Relocation

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Western Australia (PSWA) have announced a strategic move that reflects a commitment to members and the objectives of both organisations.

The ten-year lease held by the PSA for the PSWA building at 21 Hamilton St in Subiaco, Western Australia concludes at the end of 2023. Following discussions between key stakeholders from PSA and the PSWA Board, that considered several different scenarios, it has been agreed that PSA will no longer be leasing the premises in Subiaco from PSWA.  

Both PSA and PSWA considered a number of different scenarios and options for future use of the premises, and after much discussion and modelling it was mutually agreed the premises are not aligned with the requirements of either PSA or PSWA.

The mutually agreed decision allows PSA to lease a more purposeful, cost-efficient and flexible working space with the opportunity to secure special event areas when required. The move reduces cost pressures to PSA while still maintaining a visible and accessible presence and also minimises their environmental footprint.

To ensure the longevity and financial stability of PSWA, the Board recognised this decision provides the opportunity to engage a future commercial lease for Hamilton Street and maximise the return on investment for their members and its forward focus of supporting pharmacy practice research in WA.   

A significant factor considered was the maintenance of the strong and viable relationship, and the intention to continue to support the operation and direction of each organisation. This mutually agreed-upon decision underscores the strength of the professional relationship and their joint dedication to fostering the future of pharmacy.

"This move is a testament to the flexibility and adaptability of our organisations," said Steve Morris, CEO of PSA. "We're confident that our staff and members will benefit from the new agile working space, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with PSWA in other capacities."

Richard Smirk, Chair of PSWA, added, "We recognise there is a lot of memories at Hamilton Street but adapting to flexible working arrangements has provided a fabulous opportunity to generate an income stream that will go towards supporting the Society and more importantly into supporting our members to undertake research in pharmacy practice and innovation. All the while we still maintain the solid relationship bonds with PSA.”

PSA National Chair Dr Fei Sim, also a member of PSWA, reflected, “I have strong memories from this building including doing my Viva exam here but, I recognise this move provides great opportunity to both organisations for the future of our profession while maintaining our strong affiliation”.    

PSA will relocate to their new premises at 136 Stirling Highway, Nedlands from the 1 November 2023 while PSWA will remain at 21 Hamilton Street until leasing negotiations and arrangements for the historical collection have been finalised, likely in early 2024.

Jocelyn Sisson