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.
Information about kava
Travelling with kava for personal use
Information for people who import kava into Australia for personal use.Importing kava into Australia for use as a food
Information for people who import kava into Australia for use as a food.Importing kava into Australia for medical and scientific purposes
Information for people who import kava into Australia for medical and scientific purposes only.Kava pilot (phases 1 and 2)
Information about the kava pilot program announced by the Hon Scott Morrison MP in 2019 to increase stronger cultural and economic ties between Australia and Pacific Island nations.
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.