College members are reminded of the importance of complying with legislation that governs how psychiatric services are represented and promoted. This includes Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (the Act) and its prohibitions on advertising certain medicines.

The Act prohibits advertising of medicines classified as Schedule 4 (prescription-only) or Schedule 8 (controlled drugs) under the Poisons Standard. These prohibitions are outlined under sections 42DL and 42DLB of the Act.

Members are encouraged to review both the Therapeutic Goods Act and the Poisons Standard to ensure they remain compliant with any obligations relevant to their practice and presentation of their services.

Further guidance on these requirements can be accessed via the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) website, including: 

• advice specific to advertising health services 
• regulatory obligations for new and evolving treatment areas, such as psychedelic-assisted therapies.