Declare it on arrival
You must declare any medication on your Incoming Passenger Card. This applies whether it's prescription or over-the-counter, and covers both traditional and herbal medicines. Declaring honestly is straightforward and routine, undeclared medication found during a border check is treated far more seriously than a simple declaration ever would be.
This page is about customs and import rules, not medical advice. If you have questions about your specific medication, speak with your doctor or pharmacist before you travel, not a general guide.
What to carry with your medication
- Medication in its original packaging, clearly labelled
- A letter from your doctor, or a copy of the prescription, stating what it is and why you need it
- No more than roughly a 3-month supply for personal use, unless you have documentation supporting a longer amount
Original packaging plus a doctor's letter covers most situations.
If your medication isn't approved in Australia
Some medications available in your home country are restricted, require special approval, or aren't approved for supply in Australia at all. If you're not sure whether yours is one of them, check with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) or the Australian Border Force before you travel, well ahead of your departure date, since some approvals take time to arrange.
Controlled and restricted substances
Certain categories of medication, including some pain medications, ADHD medications and sedatives, are more tightly controlled and may need prior approval or specific documentation to bring into the country legally, even with a valid prescription from home. Don't assume a valid prescription elsewhere automatically clears Australian rules, check the specific category before you pack it.
If you'll need an ongoing supply
Once your initial supply runs low, you'll need to see an Australian doctor to get a local prescription, since your overseas prescription generally won't be refillable at an Australian pharmacy. Medicare doesn't cover working holiday makers, so factor the cost of a GP visit and any prescription into your budget, and check whether your travel insurance offers any support here.