Forms and resources for the Drugs of Dependence Unit

As of 1st January 2026, applications for authority to prescribe schedule 8 drugs must be submitted via ScriptCheckSA.

  • Applications received by email, fax, or post may not be accepted.
  • Submitting applications through ScriptCheckSA will mean faster processing so prescribers can start treatment sooner and patients receive timely care
  • Amendments and renewals should also be made using ScriptCheckSA
  • Instructions can be found here https://help.scriptcheck.sa.gov.au/help-topics/authorities.htm

Appealing an administrative decision made by the Drugs of Dependence Unit

Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) resources

Medicinal cannabis resources

Information regarding patient access to medicinal cannabis in SA can be found on the medicinal cannabis page.

Notified Palliative Care Patient (NPCP) notification

Drug seeking behaviour

Forged and/or fraudulently altered prescription notifications

Health practitioner’s legal obligations under the Controlled Substances Act 1984 and its regulations

Restrictions on prescribing, administering or supplying drugs

Theft and loss of medications from health facilities and licence or permit holders

Urine drug screen when prescribing drugs of dependence

Urine drug screens can be a valuable tool to address two critical questions when prescribing drugs of dependence to an individual.