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People impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred who require essential medicines, including diabetes, heart and asthma medicines, can access a limited supply without a prescription at pharmacies.
Published: 08 Mar 2025

Official: Ryan Park, Minister for Health, Minister for Regional Health

People impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred who require essential medicines, including diabetes, heart and asthma medicines, can access a limited supply without a prescription at pharmacies.

NSW Health has issued an Authority under the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods legislation that enables pharmacists to supply prescription medicines to people without a prescription who are affected by the cyclone.

NSW Health is working with local hospitals, pharmacies and health professionals in the affected areas to ensure the community is supported and essential medicines are available to those who need them.

The temporary change is designed to assist people affected by the cyclone by ensuring they can continue to access essential medicines.

While some community pharmacies may be closed in the affected areas, many pharmacies placed advanced orders to ensure they retain adequate stock.

NSW Health has also brought extra medicines into the affected region to assist the community.

Where able to, people are encouraged to phone ahead and try alternate pharmacies if their usual pharmacy is closed.

The full conditions of the supply of prescription medicines by a pharmacist without a prescription are listed in the Authority which is published online here.​

​For more information speak with your local pharmacy, GP; call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222; or visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/pharmaceutical/Publications/authority-pharmacists-tc-alfred.pdf

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

“People who are impacted by the cyclone are strongly encouraged to pack their medications and prescriptions while preparing for its impact and if evacuating.

“But in unfolding events like this, they may be lost or suddenly become inaccessible.

“If you find yourself in this situation, if you can, please contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222, or speak to a pharmacist, to seek advice specific to your circumstances.

“If your medication is considered essential, pharmacists will be able to provide you with a full pack without a prescription to ensure you don’t run out during this extreme weather event.”

Quotes attributable to President NSW Pharmacy Guild Mario Barone:

"Community pharmacies are ready to support patients across northern NSW.

“The continued dispensing authority means that you can get your medicines even if you don't have a script and can't get to your doctor."

Current as at: Saturday 8 March 2025