Can I bring Prescription Medication to Australia?
Prescription Medication→Australia
⚠️ Declaration Required
📋 Carrying Limits
- Quantity Limit:Up to 3-month supply for personal use
✅ Declaration Requirements
✅Required
Form needed: Incoming Passenger Card + TGA import permit for controlled substances
📌 Quick Summary
🔗 Official Information Source:
Last Updated:2025/1/15
Reliability:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
📝 Important Notes
- •General Prescription Medications:
- •Up to 3-month supply allowed for personal use
- •Must be in original packaging with prescription label
- •Carry doctor's prescription or letter
- •Declare on Incoming Passenger Card
- •Controlled Substances (Require TGA Permit):
- •Must obtain permit from Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) BEFORE travel
- •Apply at least 4 weeks in advance
- •Includes: strong opioid painkillers, benzodiazepines, stimulants, certain hormones
- •Examples: morphine, codeine (high strength), diazepam, temazepam, Adderall, Ritalin, testosterone
❓ More Questions
How do I apply for a TGA permit for controlled substances?
Apply online through TGA website at least 4 weeks before travel. You'll need: doctor's prescription, covering letter from doctor, medication details (name, dosage, quantity), travel dates. Permit is FREE. Processing usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Can I bring diazepam (Valium) without a TGA permit?
NO. Diazepam and other benzodiazepines are controlled substances in Australia. You MUST get a TGA permit before bringing them. Without a permit, they can be confiscated and you may face fines up to A$6,660.
Are CBD oil and cannabis products allowed?
Generally NO, unless approved under the Special Access Scheme (very rare for visitors). Cannabis and CBD products are strictly controlled in Australia. Possession without approval can result in serious penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Can I bring insulin and diabetic supplies?
Yes. Insulin and diabetic supplies (syringes, test strips, etc.) are allowed for up to 3 months. Bring: original packaging, prescription, doctor's letter. Declare on Incoming Passenger Card. Insulin is not a controlled substance and doesn't require a TGA permit.
Do I need to declare all medications on the Incoming Passenger Card?
YES! Australia requires you to declare ALL medications, even common ones. Tick "YES" to the medicines question on the card. This is part of Australia's strict biosecurity measures. Failure to declare can result in fines.
Can I bring 6 months of prescription medication?
Generally NO. Australia allows up to 3 months' supply of prescription medication for personal use. For quantities exceeding 3 months, you need a doctor's letter explaining the medical necessity and may require TGA approval.
Do I need to declare prescription medication?
YES! You must declare ALL medications (prescription and over-the-counter) on the Incoming Passenger Card. Keep medications in original packaging with pharmacy labels showing your name, and carry your doctor's prescription.
Can I bring codeine or opioid painkillers?
YES, but with strict requirements. Codeine and opioids are controlled substances. You MUST have: (1) Original prescription from your doctor, (2) Medication in original packaging, (3) Doctor's letter explaining medical necessity, (4) Maximum 3 months' supply. Declare at customs.
Can I bring traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)?
CAUTION. Many TCM products contain animal or plant materials that are prohibited under Australian biosecurity laws. Products containing endangered species (e.g., bear bile, rhino horn) are strictly prohibited. Declare all TCM products and be prepared for inspection. Consider buying TCM locally in Australia instead.
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