Apply for a pre-export notification (PEN) for a precursor substance
Use this form to apply for a pre-export notification (PEN) for eligible precursor substances being exported from Australia to support compliance with regulatory and international obligations.
Apply for a pre-export notification
To apply:
- Download and complete the Application form: Pre-export notification (PEN) for a precursor substance.
- Attach any required supporting documents.
- Email your completed application to NCS@health.gov.au.
Who can use this form
You can use this form if you are:
- An exporter of precursor substances from Australia.
- A business authorised to export precursor substances.
- An authorised representative acting on behalf of an exporter.
Important
- Applicants must hold any licences, permits or approvals required for their export activities.
- A precursor export licence must be held before submitting a PEN for regulated precursor substances.
Before you start
Before submitting your application:
- Confirm the substance being exported is subject to PEN requirements.
- Review the guidance for pre-export notification applications.
- Gather details about the substance, quantity and proposed export.
- Obtain importer, consignee and destination country information.
- Ensure all relevant licences and permits are current.
- Prepare any supporting documentation that may be required.
- Ensure all information provided is complete and accurate.
Providing complete and accurate information can help avoid delays in processing your application.
Important
For regulated precursor substances:
- You must hold a precursor export licence.
- A PEN must be submitted at least 5 business days before the intended shipment.
- Exports must not proceed until the required notification period has elapsed and no advice has been received preventing the shipment.
PEN requirements apply to specified precursor substances listed in Schedule 9 of the Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulations 1958, including substances such as acetic anhydride, acetone, hydrochloric acid, piperidine, potassium permanganate and toluene, subject to applicable concentration and quantity thresholds.
Resources that can help
Before you start, review:
What you’ll need
| Information needed | Details |
|---|---|
| Exporter details | Exporter name, business details, exporter licence number, company address and contact details |
| Substance details | Precursor substance name, trade name (if applicable), concentration or strength, pack type, pack size and total quantity |
| Importer and consignee details | Importer name, importer address, destination country and point of entry |
| Shipment details | Proposed export date, approximate import date, point of exit, transport method and any transhipment route |
| Declarations | Confirmation that information is accurate and complete and consent to information sharing where authorised by law |
Fees and charges
Fees may apply to applications and related regulatory activities.
Applicants should ensure any applicable fees are paid before processing can proceed. Contact the Office of Drug Control for information about current fees and payment requirements.
Contact us
Contact the Office of Drug Control if you need assistance with:
- Completing an application.
- PEN requirements.
- Supporting documentation.
- Export licence requirements.
- Application status enquiries.
Email: odc@health.gov.au