What this instrument does
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has registered a notifiable instrument titled the National Health (Pharmaceutical Benefits) (Active Ingredient Prescribing - Excluded Pharmaceutical Benefits) Instrument 2026. The instrument is made under the National Health (Pharmaceutical Benefits) Regulations 2017.
Active ingredient prescribing rules require doctors to write the active ingredient name on prescriptions rather than a brand name. This instrument lists specific pharmaceutical benefits that are carved out from those requirements.
What is excluded
The instrument identifies two categories of excluded pharmaceutical benefits:
- Medicines prescribed using a free text function
- Particular ready-prepared pharmaceutical benefits
The source document does not specify which particular medicines fall into either category. The full list is available in the instrument text at https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026N00280.
Dates
- In force from: 30 April 2026
- Expires: 31 August 2026
After 31 August 2026, a replacement or updated instrument may be registered. The source does not confirm whether one is planned.
Where to find more information
The full instrument text is published on the Federal Register of Legislation at https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026N00280. Enquiries about how the excluded medicines affect dispensing or prescribing processes can be directed to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing through its main enquiries channels.
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.