On 11 October 2019, Australia launched a commercial pilot for kava. The pilot recognises the deep cultural significance of kava for Pacific Island communities both in Australia and across the Pacific region. Kava is also an important agricultural resource for many Pacific island countries. The pilot also supports broader efforts to increase stronger cultural and economic ties between Australia and Pacific island countries.

The pilot consists of two phases:

• Phase 1 – Increasing the amount of kava that incoming passengers (18 years or over) are allowed to bring into Australia in their accompanied baggage from 2kg to 4kg. Phase 1 commenced in December 2019.
• Phase 2 – Allowing the commercial importation of kava: this phase of the pilot allows for the commercial importation of kava into Australia for use as a food. This phase commenced on 1 December 2021.

Although the Kava Pilot has now ended, arrangements under the pilot remain unchanged – Kava exporters and importers can continue to apply for import permits from the Office of Drug Control (Department of Health).

Importers can apply for a permit to commercially import kava as a food through the Office of Drug Control via their website. Guidance material can be found directly next to the kava permit application form.

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