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
Find out the rules for bringing kava into Australia for personal use, including quantity limits and traveller requirements.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)
Overview of the kava pilot program introduced in 2019 to support cultural ties and expand regulated kava import arrangements between Australia and Pacific nations.
News
The Kava Pilot and the final report
Kava pilot ends on 31 December 2023, with a decision on future imports pending; importers can continue applying for permissions in the meantime.