Pharmac opens recruitment for new Community and Patient Advisory Committee

Pharmac is recruiting members for its new Community and Patient Advisory Committee (CPAC), a key part of work to strengthen how patient, whānau and community voices inform Pharmac’s decisions.

CPAC will provide independent consumer and patient perspectives to the Pharmac Board.

“Over the past year we’ve focused on ensuring patient and whānau voices are visible, influential and embedded earlier in our work,” says Pharmac Director of Equity and Engagement, Dr Nicola Ngawati. “CPAC is an important step in strengthening those connections and making sure lived experience continues to shape how we improve our processes.”

Applications are now open for up to ten members with diverse lived experience, strong community connections, and an interest in improving equity in access to medicines. Members will contribute to discussions on health needs, lived experience, and community perspectives relevant to Pharmac’s work.

The new committee will begin meeting from February 2027.

Dr Ngawati says CPAC’s establishment reflects feedback from patient and consumer groups, including members of the interim advisory committee.

“People told us they want clearer expectations, stronger influence, and more visible pathways for lived experience to inform our decisions. CPAC has been designed with that in mind.”

Applications now open

Applications are open until 7 October 2026

You can find the role description, an information sheet, and an application form on our Careers website.

All enquiries and applications should be directed to consumer@pharmac.govt.nz