Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Codeine (Medication) → Australia
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-04-25
Prescription required since 2018
Details
Codeine in Australia is Schedule 4 (Prescription Only) since the 2018 reclassification — even low-dose combination products previously sold OTC now require a prescription. Travelers may import a 3-month supply for personal use under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) personal-importation scheme; declaration on the Incoming Passenger Card is required, and the prescription or doctor's letter must be available for inspection. Quantities above 3 months trigger TGA Authorised Prescriber requirement.
Quantity limit
3 months supply
Documentation required
- Prescription
- Doctor's letter
Legal reference
Therapeutic Goods Act 1989, SUSMP Schedule 4
Practical advice
Keep in original packaging with pharmacy label. Carry prescription separately.
Customs authority
Australian Border Force (ABF) · https://www.abf.gov.au