Consumer Medicines Line to End in July 2026
11 Jun 2026
Also known as 1300 MEDICINES, the service has provided information and support about medicines, including advice on side effects and medicine safety. The Federal Government says the closure reflects a shift towards strengthening primary healthcare services and connecting patients with their regular healthcare providers.
People seeking advice about medicines are encouraged to contact their GP, nurse practitioner, midwife or community pharmacist. These healthcare professionals can provide personalised guidance based on an individual's medical history and treatment needs.
The Government says using a regular healthcare provider helps improve continuity of care, supports shared decision-making and reduces the risk of gaps or duplication in treatment.
Although the Consumer Medicines Line is closing, several free services will remain available. These include 1800 MEDICARE, where registered nurses provide health advice around the clock, as well as trusted online medicine information resources.
Patients can also access Home Medicines Reviews, where pharmacists review medicines and provide recommendations to both the patient and their GP.
Side effects and medicine-related problems can still be reported directly to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), with healthcare professionals available to assist patients in submitting reports and reviewing treatment if needed.
The Consumer Medicines Line will continue operating as normal until its closure on 30 July 2026.
Consumer Medicines Line to End in July 2026
Source: Department of Health, Disability and Ageing