Narcotic and psychotropic drugs
A Licence and Permit must be obtained from the Office of Drug Control (ODC) to import, export, manufacture, produce or cultivate controlled substances in Australia.
To conduct any activities relating to the import, export, manufacture, production or cultivation of controlled substances, including narcotic and psychotropic substances, a valid Licence and Permit issued by the ODC must be obtained.
Such activities are prohibited unless a valid Licence and Permit are held. An approved Licence and Permit will outline the activities approved to be conducted and other relevant requirements that, depending on the intended activities, will be subject to certain regulations. See below for more information.
Note: Licences are not granted to individuals for the purpose of obtaining medications for personal use. If you are an individual wanting to access medications that are prohibited imports you should consult your doctor.
Information about narcotic & psychotropic drugs
Medicinal Cannabis Expert Working Group (MCEWG)
The Medicinal Cannabis Expert Working Group (MCEWG) provides advice to the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care on issues relating to the medicinal use of cannabis, in accordance with the Narcotic Drugs Act 1967 and the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989. It aims to address emerging issues and developments in the field of medicinal cannabis.
News
- More Portal functionalities coming in 2025We will be progressively adding more digital forms and enhanced functionality, enabling you to complete a range of tasks online.
- Update on new online forms for licence applicationsWe are transitioning to an online system for submitting new licence applications from mid-2024. The changes will affect how you will submit a new licence application.
- New substances controlled under the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 and Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulations 1958Find out about new substances requiring a licence and permit for import and/or export issued by us, the Office of Drug Control (ODC), From 21 February 2024.