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Kava

Kava has different import requirements and set amounts for personal use or for commercial food use.

Kava is a drug made from the ground roots of the kava plant (Piper methysticum) found in the South Pacific. It is consumed as a drink, supplement or extract. 

Kava for use as a food requires an import permit issued by the Office of Drug Control (ODC). It must also comply with Australia's biosecurity requirements.

Kava for personal use has an exemption that allows incoming passengers (18 years or over) to bring up to 4kg of kava (powder) into Australia in their accompanied baggage. This is not allowed in the Northern Territory.

News

  • The Kava Pilot and the final report

    The Kava pilot ends on 31 December 2023. The Australian Government will make a decision on future imports of kava. Until then, importers can continue to apply for import permission for kava. Read the final report.

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