Australia regulates imported medicines strictly through the TGA. Controlled substances, certain supplements, and some over-the-counter products from other countries may be prohibited or require permits. Here's what to know before you pack.
What Medicines Are Not Allowed Into Australia?
If you are relocating to Australia, managing your prescription medications across the move requires careful planning. Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration controls what medicines can enter the country, and the rules are stricter than most people expect.
What You Can Bring In: The Three-Month Rule
For most standard prescription and over-the-counter medicines, you can bring in a three-month supply for personal use without a permit. They must be in their original packaging with the pharmacist's label or a prescription attached. Keep your doctor's letter confirming the medication, dosage, and reason for use.
What Requires a Permit
Controlled drugs — This is the most critical category. Medicines containing opioids (morphine, codeine, oxycodone, tramadol), benzodiazepines (diazepam, clonazepam), stimulants (methylphenidate, amphetamines), or anabolic steroids all require an import permit from the Office of Drug Control — even for legitimate personal medical use.
Permits are obtainable, but you must apply before you travel. The process takes several weeks, so plan well ahead.
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What Is Outright Prohibited
Some substances that are legal in other countries are scheduled or prohibited in Australia. Cannabis products — even legally obtained in your home country — are controlled in Australia (medicinal cannabis with an Australian prescription and import permit is the exception). Certain herbal preparations and traditional remedies from Asian and African countries may also be prohibited.
When in doubt, check the TGA's import regulations or contact our team for a referral to a healthcare advisor familiar with cross-border medication management.
What to Do Before You Arrive
Get a comprehensive letter from your doctor listing all medications, dosages, and the clinical reason for each.
Cross-reference each medication against the Office of Drug Control's controlled substances schedule.
Apply for import permits well in advance for any controlled substances.
Pack all medications in their original packaging with pharmacy labels.
Declare everything on your incoming passenger card — the form has a specific medicines question.
Setting Up Prescriptions in Australia
Once you have permanent residency and enrol in Medicare, your Australian GP can write local prescriptions for any continuing treatment. This is important for long-term planning: medications that cost hundreds of dollars monthly privately in Australia are available for $7–$31 AUD per script on the PBS for permanent residents.
If managing ongoing medication is a concern in your move planning, complete the assessment below and we will advise on the timing of your visa pathway relative to when you gain Medicare and PBS access.