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The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued 5 infringement notices, totalling $99,000, to ACPharm Queensland Pty Ltd (ACPharm Queensland) for the alleged unlawful advertising of therapeutic goods in contravention of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (the Act).
ACPharm Queensland paid the infringement notices in October 2025.
It is alleged that ACPharm Queensland unlawfully advertised medicinal cannabis and other therapeutic goods that are not included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).
Advertising prescription-only medicines, such as medicinal cannabis, directly to consumers is prohibited under the Act, as it can create inappropriate demand and undermine the relationship between patients and their treating medical practitioners. Decisions about appropriate treatment options should be made by a patient in consultation with their health professional.
It is also alleged that the advertising promoted the use of a therapeutic good for the treatment of serious diseases, conditions or disorders. Such references are known as restricted or prohibited representations and are not allowed to be included in advertising for therapeutic goods unless approval or permission is given by the TGA.
In Australia, therapeutic goods must be entered in the ARTG before they can be lawfully manufactured, supplied or advertised, unless a specific exemption applies. This requirement serves as a critical safeguard to ensure that therapeutic goods available to consumers are safe and of high quality, and that they work as intended.
Businesses must understand their legal obligations before manufacturing, supplying and advertising therapeutic goods. Consequences for non-compliance with relevant legislation may include infringement notices or civil or criminal proceedings.
The TGA will continue to take action where serious non-compliance with the Act is identified, in accordance with our regulatory compliance framework. This may include issuing infringement notices, directions and prevention notices, or civil or criminal proceedings.
If you suspect non-compliance in relation to therapeutic goods, or their advertising, you can report it to the TGA at any time.
Contact for members of the media:
- Email: news@health.gov.au
- Phone: 02 6289 7400
