Apply for a licence to import narcotic and psychotropic drugs and precursor substances
Apply for a licence and permit to import narcotic and psychotropic substances or precursor chemicals into Australia.
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If you intend to import or export regulated narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances or precursor chemicals, you may need a licence from the Office of Drug Control (ODC).
A licence authorises you to undertake these activities and helps ensure controlled substances are managed safely, securely and in accordance with Australian regulatory requirements. Individual permits may also be required before a shipment can occur.
Access the form
To apply for an import licence:
- Download and complete the Application form: Licence to import and/or export narcotic psychotropic and precursor substances form.
- Gather all required supporting documentation.
- Email the completed form and supporting documents to ncs@Health.gov.au.
Who can use this form
You can apply if you are:
- an Australian business, company or organisation
- authorised to handle controlled substances
- able to demonstrate appropriate security, storage and compliance arrangements
- importing substances for legitimate medical, scientific, industrial, research or regulatory purposes.
Import licences are generally issued to organisations rather than individuals.
Before you apply
Before applying for a licence, you should:
- confirm your substance is regulated
- determine whether you require an import licence, export licence or both
- understand any permit requirements that apply to individual shipments
- review your compliance and record-keeping obligations
- gather information about your organisation and proposed activities
If you are unsure whether a substance is regulated, search the controlled substances database.
Resources that can help
Before you apply, review:
What you’ll need
| Information type | Details you may need to provide |
|---|---|
| Business details | Information about you and your organisation, including contact and registration details. |
| Import activities | Details of the substances you plan to import, why you are importing them and how they will be used. |
| Compliance information | Information about relevant licences, approvals and regulatory requirements. |
| Security and storage arrangements | Details of how the substances will be stored, secured, handled and monitored. |
| Personnel checks | Information about personnel responsible for regulated activities, including police checks where required. |
| Supporting documents | Copies of supporting records, licences, approvals and any other documents requested in the application form. |
Note: Providing complete and accurate information, along with all required supporting documents, will help us assess your application more efficiently.
Fees and charges
Fees apply for licence applications and related regulatory activities.
Additional fees may apply for:
- permit applications
- inspections and compliance activities
- annual licence renewals.
Get help
Contact the Office of Drug Control if you need help:
- completing the application
- understanding the requirements
- meeting compliance obligations
- checking the status of your application.
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