Tablet Press Regulation
Control of tablet presses in Australia
On 14 December 2009, the Governor-General amended the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 making tablet presses a prohibited import. The new regulations will commence on 1 March 2010. Regulating the importation of tablet presses at the border complements existing domestic legislation making it an offence to possess tablet presses without lawful excuse.
Industry with a legitimate reason to import tablet presses will still be able to so, subject to approval from the Minister for Home Affairs or an authorised person.
Why are tablet presses being regulated?
Tablet presses are used by a variety of legitimate industries in Australia including the pharmaceutical, self medicating, and foods and fragrances industries. However, tablet presses are also highly desired by organised criminal groups involved in the manufacture of illicit synthetic drugs.
The manufacture and distribution of amphetamine type stimulants is a serious problem in Australia. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2007 National Drug Strategy Household Survey reports that 3.5 per cent of Australians aged over 14 have used ecstasy recently (over the previous 12 months) and 2.3 per cent have recently used amphetamine type stimulants. The Australian Crime Commission’s Illicit Drug Data Report 2007-08 states that the Australian ATS market appears to be predominantly supplied by domestic production.
Preventing the importation of tablet presses for use in illicit markets is therefore an important way of reducing the domestic production of amphetamine type stimulants.
The Australian Government’s Organised Crime Strategic Framework identifies the manufacture and supply of amphetamine type stimulants as priority areas for combating organised crime.
The threat of tablet presses being used in illicit drug manufacture is recognised by all governments within Australia, which have implemented legislation making it an offence to possess a tablet press without lawful excuse.
How can importers apply for permission to import?
As of 1 July 2010, the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service will be responsible for administering the tablet press import control.
To make an application, please visit the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service website.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Trade Policy and Regulation
Australian Customs and Border Protection Service
5 Constitution Avenue
Canberra ACT 2601
Email: community.protection@customs.gov.au
Phone: 02 6275 5963
Fax: 02 6229 3840