Regulations under the controlled substances legislation

The regulations under the Controlled Substances legislation specify the substances that are controlled and the details of the controls.

The Controlled Substances (Poisons) Regulations 2011 has been amended. Record keeping and reporting requirements for prescribers and pharmacists have changed. 
A summary of the changes can be found in the Law is changing summary factsheet (PDF 133KB) and a list of Frequently asked questions - The Law is Changing (PDF 414KB).

Where can I find out what substances are controlled?

The substances that are controlled include:

What are the controls under the Controlled Substances legislation?

The controls include:

  • only specified health practitioners are able to prescribe and supply prescription medicines such as antibiotics, strong pain killers and birth control pills
  • medical practitioners, nurse practitioners and dentists must hold an authority to prescribe or supply drugs of dependence (strong pain killers such as morphine) in specified circumstances
  • only people who hold a licence or permit may make, sell, supply or use some controlled substances
  • there are labelling, packaging and storage requirements to help ensure safe use
  • the sale of some dangerous poisons is restricted
  • only people who have appropriate training can apply pesticides for fee or reward (for example, when working in a pest control business).