⚠️ Rules vary by destination country. This guide covers Australian requirements — always check the regulations of the country you are entering. Some countries have strict rules about medications that are legal in Australia.
Do I need a DACC permit?
A DACC (Therapeutic Goods Administration) permit is required when travelling internationally with Schedule 8 controlled drugs.
Needs a DACC permit (S8):
- Opioids (oxycodone, morphine, codeine >15mg)
- Stimulants (dexamphetamine, methylphenidate)
- Benzodiazepines (diazepam, alprazolam, temazepam)
- Methadone, buprenorphine
- Fentanyl patches
Generally no permit needed:
- Blood pressure medications
- Diabetes medications (oral)
- Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs)
- Thyroid medications
- Most antibiotics
If unsure whether your medication is Schedule 8, ask your GP or pharmacist. Apply for a DACC permit at
tga.gov.au at least
2 weeks before travel.
💼 What to carry for every medication
💊
Original packaging
Keep medications in original pharmacy-labelled containers. Never transfer to unlabelled containers.
📄
GP letter on letterhead
Lists your name, medications, dosages, conditions, and that they are prescribed. Ask your GP before travel.
📋
Adequate supply + extra
Carry enough for your trip plus at least 1–2 weeks extra. Keep some in carry-on, some in checked luggage.
📃
DACC permit if required
Mandatory for Schedule 8 drugs. Apply via TGA at least 2 weeks before departure.
🧊 Refrigerated medications (insulin, biologics, EpiPen)
Some medications require refrigeration. Before travel, discuss with your GP or pharmacist:
- How long the medication can safely be kept at room temperature
- Whether a travel case (e.g. FRIO wallet for insulin) is appropriate
- Airline rules for carrying medication in carry-on (most allow it with documentation)
- Storage at your accommodation
Never pack refrigerated medication in checked luggage — aircraft holds are not temperature-controlled and may freeze.
🕐 Time zones and dosing schedules
Crossing time zones affects when to take medications that are time-sensitive. This is worth discussing with your GP before travel, particularly for:
Insulin — timing matters with meals
Oral contraceptive pill — 12-hour window
Warfarin / anticoagulants
Thyroid medication (best taken fasting)
Your GP or pharmacist can advise on how to adjust timing for your specific medication and destination. Do not change dosing schedules without discussing with your doctor first.
🆘 If you run out or lose your medication overseas
- Contact your travel insurer first — emergency medication replacement may be covered
- See a local doctor or hospital for a new prescription — Australian prescriptions are generally not filled directly overseas
- In RHCA countries (UK, NZ, Ireland etc.), you may be able to access subsidised care to get a new script
- Contact the Australian embassy or consulate if you need assistance
- For Schedule 8 medications, replacement is difficult — carry more than you think you need
Always keep a photo of your prescription, original packaging, and GP letter on your phone.