Among those is Delroy Terry White Chemist. Owner Kaail Bohm said pharmacists had received the same training as doctors and nurses in administering the vaccine.

"This is great news for our patients and indeed for everyone in this region," Mr Bohm said. "This means there is an easy and very accessible way to get vaccinated.

"Our patients know and trust us from our regular flu vaccination program and our COVID-19 service reflects that trust and confidence. We are very pleased to be included as part of the national vaccine rollout and recognise the importance of getting as many people vaccinated as soon as possible."

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Some pharmacies in smaller towns have been administering AstraZeneca since July, including Narromine Pharmacy which reported back to back appointments.

But a large number of other chemists across the region have also been granted approval by the Federal Government, and have been waiting for doses. Those doses are on the way.

Mr Bohm said he has an allocation already of 600, and all going to plan, was ordering an additional 600 late last week.

He was told his first allocation would arrive no later than August 16, and if they do arrive than expected, he will open up appointments earlier.

"We all want to get our lives back to being as normal as we can and that is only going to be possible if we have the vast majority of the population vaccinated.

"Getting vaccinated helps protect you from the virus but it also helps to protect those around you. Those that you love and care for also benefit from you getting vaccinated."

After their first dose, residents will be able to book a second appointment.

For people living in regional areas, the advice from NSW Health is to have a 12 week interval between AstraZeneca jabs. The advice for Greater Sydney is a shorter interval, in the bid to get more people fully vaccinated.

Mr Bohm said he would recommend waiting between 10 to 12 weeks, as the vaccine has a higher chance of longer protection.

"Patients just need to be aware that with COVID-19 vaccinations we ask that bookings be made which helps to ensure there is no wastage of vaccines and also that the second dose can be followed up."

Appointments will be available from 8am-7pm, with weekends open for those who work during the week.

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