Independent Pharmacies Of Australia Group

Who We Are

In 1992, three Gippsland pharmacists — Steven Kastrinakis, John Kardis and Michael Gray — were frustrated with the complexity of negotiating buying deals and managing marketing individually. They believed independent pharmacies deserved the same commercial strength as larger chains, while maintaining their independence and connection to their communities. 

So they created a small buying group. 

That initiative quickly gained traction as neighbouring pharmacies joined, forming what became the Gippsland Pharmacy Group (GPG). 

Each founder brought something unique to the table: 

• Steven Kastrinakis helped shape the consumer-facing strategy and retail direction of the group 

• John Kardis developed the proprietary inventory management system Buy-It-Right™ 

• Michael Gray provided strategic and legal expertise that helped build the structure of the organisation 

Together, they laid the foundations for a network built on collaboration, commercial strength, and independence. 

Professional services

Our range of programs help pharmacies combine professional expertise with personalised advice. Make every service count with our Professional Services Health Check that assesses and optimises your services to ensure clinical effectiveness and commercial sustainability.

Operational support

We deliver comprehensive operational support to help your pharmacy thrive. Streamline accreditation and stay audit-ready with our QCPP support packages and stay connected through our centralised IPA Connect platform with live updates, resources and training. Territory Managers and Professional Services Pharmacists guide and support your pharmacy to maximise performance and patient care.