Psilocybin Therapy in Australia: FAQs
Legal Status in Australia
Is psilocybin legal in Australia?
Yes, psilocybin is legal in Australia only when prescribed by a TGA-authorised psychiatrist for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). As of July 1, 2023, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) down-scheduled psilocybin from Schedule 9 (Prohibited Substance) to Schedule 8 (Controlled Drug) for this specific medical use. For all other purposes, including personal cultivation or recreational use, psilocybin remains strictly illegal across all Australian states and territories.
Can I grow my own "magic mushrooms" if I have a prescription?
No, you cannot legally grow your own psilocybin mushrooms in Australia. Under the current TGA framework, the medicine must be pharmaceutical-grade, manufactured according to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, and administered only within a controlled clinical setting. Cultivation for personal use remains a criminal offence.
Eligibility & Access
Who is eligible for psilocybin-assisted therapy?
In Australia, eligibility is currently restricted to patients with a formal diagnosis of Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). To qualify, a patient must generally demonstrate that they have not responded to at least two different classes of standard antidepressant treatments. Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis by a psychiatrist who has been granted "Authorised Prescriber" status by the TGA.
Do I need a referral to access psilocybin treatment?
Yes, a referral from your General Practitioner (GP) or current psychiatrist is required. Because psilocybin is an "unapproved therapeutic good," the process begins with your doctor referring you to a specialist psychiatrist who is specifically authorised by the TGA to prescribe psychedelic-assisted therapies.
Costs & Medicare
How much does psilocybin therapy cost in Australia?
The current cost for a full course of psilocybin-assisted therapy in Australia typically ranges between $15,000 and $30,000 AUD. This high cost is largely due to the "two-therapist" safety model required by clinical guidelines, which involves many hours of intensive supervision during the dosing sessions, as well as preparation and integration sessions.
Is psilocybin therapy covered by Medicare?
Medicare does not currently cover the cost of the psilocybin medicine itself. However, some portions of the psychiatric assessments and psychotherapy sessions may be eligible for Medicare rebates under existing item numbers. Additionally, some private health insurers, such as Medibank, have begun pilot programs to help subsidise costs for eligible members.
The Treatment Process
Can I take psilocybin at home?
No, psilocybin therapy cannot be performed at home. Australian law requires the medicine to be administered in a hospital or specialized clinic under the direct supervision of an authorised psychiatrist and a second trained health professional. Patients remain in the clinic for the duration of the 6–8 hour experience.
What is "Integration Therapy"?
Integration therapy is the process of working with a psychologist to make sense of the insights gained during a psilocybin session. It is a mandatory component of the clinical model in Australia. Integration usually involves multiple follow-up sessions designed to help the patient translate their experience into long-term behavioral changes and mental health improvements.
Safety & Contraindications
Who should avoid psilocybin therapy?
Psilocybin therapy is generally not recommended for individuals with a personal or strong family history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder. It may also be contraindicated for people with certain heart conditions or those taking specific medications (such as high-dose SSRIs) that may interfere with the treatment's safety or efficacy. A full medical screening is mandatory before approval.
Is psilocybin addictive?
Clinical research indicates that psilocybin has a low potential for addiction. Unlike substances such as opioids or stimulants, psilocybin does not trigger the brain's "reward" dopamine circuit in a way that leads to compulsive use. In a clinical setting, it is used as a tool to facilitate psychotherapy rather than as a daily medication.