Evidence reviewed
Australia
TGA-registered and PBS-subsidised. Available through GPs and addiction specialists across all states and territories. One of the most accessible naltrexone programmes in the Asia-Pacific region.
Australia has one of the most accessible naltrexone programmes in the region. The medication is TGA-registered (Therapeutic Goods Administration) and listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) under item 8370M, which means the government subsidises the cost for eligible patients.
You can get naltrexone through your GP, who can write a PBS prescription directly. Some GPs may refer you to an addiction medicine specialist or a state-run drug and alcohol service for initial assessment. Telehealth appointments are widely available, making treatment accessible even in regional and remote areas.
Several generic brands are available: Naltrexone Sandoz, Naltrexone GH, ARX-Naltrexone (Accord), and Naltrexone INTAS — all 50 mg tablets in packs of 30. The extended-release injection (Vivitrol) is TGA-registered but not listed on the PBS, making it significantly more expensive.
Three standard pathways, from simplest to most involved.
Book an appointment with your regular GP. Discuss your alcohol or opioid concerns. If naltrexone is appropriate, your GP can write a PBS prescription directly. You then fill it at any pharmacy for the subsidised price. This is the quickest pathway — often same-day.
Some GPs prefer to refer you to an addiction medicine specialist or psychiatrist for initial assessment. The specialist confirms the treatment plan and may write the first script. After you are stable, your GP can take over ongoing prescribing. This pathway is common if you have complex medical needs.
Each state and territory runs public addiction treatment services. These are free and provide comprehensive care including medical assessment, counselling, and medication management. Waiting times vary by location and urgency. Ideal if you want integrated support beyond just the prescription.
PBS maximum co-payments from 1 January 2026; the actual pharmacy price may be lower.
PBS co-payment for concession cardholders
PBS co-payment for Medicare cardholders
Bulk billing is not guaranteed; confirm the clinic's fee
Naltrexone 50 mg tablet, pack of 30
Free public drug and alcohol services in every Australian jurisdiction.
NSW Drug Health Services — call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 250 015 for 24/7 confidential advice and referral.
DirectLine — call 1800 888 236 for 24/7 alcohol and drug counselling and referral to local treatment services across Victoria.
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) — call 1800 177 833 for 24/7 support and referral to QLD Health ATODS (Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Services).
Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia (DASSA) — call 1300 131 340 for confidential telephone assessment and referral.
WA Alcohol and Drug Support Line — call 1800 198 024 for 24/7 counselling, information, and referral to community treatment services.
Tasmania: Alcohol and Drug Service 1300 139 641. ACT: Alcohol and Drug Services (02) 5124 9977. NT: Alcohol and Other Drugs Services (08) 8922 8399 (Darwin).
No — you can self-refer to most private addiction specialists without a GP referral. However, a GP referral makes you eligible for Medicare rebates, reducing your out-of-pocket cost. Many public state services accept self-referrals directly.
No. Vivitrol is TGA-registered in Australia but is not listed on the PBS. This means you pay the full private price — typically AUD $1200–$1600 per monthly injection. Most Australian patients use the oral tablet form due to PBS subsidy.
Yes, but TSM is primarily offered through private addiction specialists and some private GPs with addiction medicine training. It is not typically available through public state services, which usually focus on daily dosing and abstinence support. Expect to pay private specialist fees for TSM treatment.
Telehealth is widely available in Australia for addiction treatment. You can have a video consultation with a GP or specialist from home. PBS prescriptions can be sent electronically to your local pharmacy, or delivered by post in some areas. State services also offer telephone counselling and support.
Yes. Naltrexone is PBS-listed for both alcohol and opioid dependence. For opioid dependence, you must complete detoxification first and be opioid-free for at least 7–10 days before starting. Your GP or specialist will confirm this with a urine test before prescribing.
Yes. Once your out-of-pocket medical costs reach the Medicare Safety Net threshold in a calendar year, you receive higher rebates on specialist consultations and some other services. This can reduce the ongoing cost of specialist visits for naltrexone management.
Start with your GP — they can prescribe directly or refer you. For immediate support, call your state's alcohol and drug helpline.
