TranslateLearn about medicines and poisons regulation
Pharmaceutical Services Branch administers the Tasmanian Poisons Act 1971 and the Poisons Regulations 2018.
This legislation provides for the possession, supply, and use of medicines and poisons.
What are medicines and poisons?
- Medicines, drugs, and poisons are everywhere.
- Many are very important in helping maintain your health.
- If medicines, drugs, and poisons are used incorrectly they are dangerous and may cause illness or death.
What the Pharmaceutical Services Branch do
- Administer the poisons legislation with an aim to help help prevent harm to the public, patients, and the community.
- Issue licences, permits, and authorisation under the poisons legislation.
- Monitor compliance.
- Provide advice and education about application of the poisons legislation.
Please note
The Pharmaceutical Services Branch cannot give advice about an individual's medical condition or use of medicines. Consumers are strongly encouraged to talk with a health professional if they are concerned about a medical condition, are seeking advice about their medicines, or a possible adverse event associated with a medicine.
Where to get more information about medicines
Please visit the websites of the below organisations and services for more information about medicine regulation, usage, and access in Tasmania.
Your own treating health practitioner
Your own treating health practitioner can provide advice and information if you are concerned about a medical condition, are seeking advice about your medicines, or a possible adverse event associated with a medicine.
Immunisation Advice for Tasmanians
Many infectious diseases can be prevented by immunisation. To find out how to get a vaccine in Tasmania, visit the immunisation section of our website.
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
The TGA is part of the Australian Government Department of Health. They approve prescription medicines, vaccines, sunscreens, vitamins and minerals, medical devices, blood and blood products for use in Australia. Visit the TGA website to find out more.
Medicare
Medicare is the Australian government scheme that gives all Australian residents access to healthcare. Visit the Medicare website to find out more about healthcare services and what costs they cover.
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia represents all pharmacists working in Australia. Visit the PSA website to find out about how they are helping improve healthcare for Australians.
Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia
Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia supports pharmacists to meet medication and related service needs to deliver the best healthcare for Australians. Visit the SHPA website to find out more about what they do.
Tasmanian School of Pharmacy
The Tasmanian School of Pharmacy is part of the University of Tasmania. Visit the UTAS website to find out more about studying to become a pharmacist in Tasmania.
Pharmacy Guild of Australia
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia represent the interests of community pharmacies across Australia. Visit the Pharmacy Guild website to find out how community pharmacies support the health of all Australians.
Tasmanian Pharmacy Authority
The Tasmanian Pharmacy Authority are responsible for regulating ownership and registration of pharmacy premises in Tasmania. Visit the TPA website to find out more.
ANZCA Faculty of Pain Medicine
ANZCA Faculty of Pain Medicine train, assess and set standards for all specialist pain medicine doctors who wish to practice in Australia and New Zealand. Visit the ANZCA website to find out more.
