Drug Importation / Exportation
Charged with Drug Importation or Exportation?
Facing a drug importation or exportation charge can be overwhelming, especially when federal agencies such as the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Border Force (ABF) are involved. These cases require experienced criminal defence lawyers who understand both Commonwealth law and the complex investigative procedures behind cross-border drug operations.
Detailed description:
- Extensive experience handling federal drug importation and exportation cases involving multiple agencies and complex evidence.
- Skilled in building strong legal defences such as lack of knowledge, duress, or unlawful procedure.
- Proven track record of achieving favourable outcomes, including charge reductions and dismissals in high-stakes Commonwealth prosecutions.
If you are being investigated or have been charged with importing or exporting drugs, contact Brightstone Defence immediately. Our experienced criminal lawyers will protect your rights, guide you through each stage of the process, and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
What is Drug Importation and Exportation?
Drug importation and exportation refers to bringing illegal drugs into or out of Australia, whether by mail, suitcase, hidden in cargo, or using people as couriers ("mules"). It applies even if the person only arranged the shipment or was part of a broader operation.
It’s a serious federal offence that goes beyond borders, but you don’t need to physically cross a border to be charged.
Elements the Prosecution Must Prove
To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove:
- The person imported/exported a substance, either directly or indirectly.
- That the substance was a prohibited drug or plant.
- The person intended to do it or was reckless as to what was being imported/exported.
- The quantity falls within one of the threshold categories (for example, commercial quantity).
They don’t need to prove ownership; just involvement is enough.
Possible Defences
Legal defences could include:
- Lack of knowledge – the person did not know they were moving drugs (for example, unknowingly carrying drugs in luggage)
- Duress – they were coerced or threatened into doing it
- Mental impairment – affecting the person’s ability to form intent
- No actual drug – the substance was not illegal under law
Everything is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Potential Penalties
Under the Criminal Code Regulations 2002 (Schedule 4), the law clearly defines what counts as a “marketable” or “commercial” quantity for each border controlled drug. These thresholds determine how serious the charges and penalties can be.
For border controlled plants, the relevant amounts are listed separately in Regulation 5E of the same Regulations.
These offences carry some of the harshest penalties in Australian law:
- Up to life imprisonment for commercial quantities
- 25 years imprisonment for marketable quantities
- Heavy fines – up to $1,500,000 or more, depending on the case
- Permanent criminal record, restrictions on travel, and deportation if not an Australian citizen
Even attempting to import or export drugs is treated nearly as seriously as doing it.
Legal Process
& Options
Importing or exporting border controlled substances is an offence under sections 307.1 to 307.4 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth). These are Commonwealth offences, meaning they are prosecuted under federal law, even if the offence occurs within NSW.
If you are charged with importing or exporting a border controlled drug, it is crucial that you understand the legal process and seek urgent expert legal advice.
Pleading
Not Guilty
Due to the complexity of federal drug prosecutions, expert criminal defence is essential in these matters. You may wish to plead not guilty if:
- You had no knowledge of the drugs.
- You were used as a mule without consent.
- You did not know what was being imported or exported.
- The item seized was not a border controlled substance.
- The investigation comprised of unlawful conduct or breach of procedure.
Your lawyer may raise a plausible defence, such as:
- Lack of knowledge or intent.
- Duress or coercion.
- Unlawful search or procedural flaws.
- Alternative valid explanation for communications or packages.
Pleading
Guilty
Whilst pleading guilty may allow for a sentence discount of up to 25 per cent, possibly reducing a lengthy custodial sentence, importation cases involve a standard non-parole period. This means that even with a guilty plea, prison is highly likely, depending on the seriousness of the offence. Pleading guilty will mean that:
- You admit involvement in the importing and exporting of the substance.
- You do not intend to dispute the quantity, your involvement, or the facts.
The court will consider various factors when sentencing, such as:
- The type and quantity of substance, whether it was marketable or commercial.
- Whether you were the principal or a courier.
- The degree of planning or sophistication.
- Your prior criminal history.
- Whether you have demonstrated remorse, cooperated with authorities, or taken steps to rehabilitation.
Gaol is uncommon for first-time, low-level drug possession, but it is still a possibility if:
- You have prior convictions
- You were in possession of a significant quantity
- There are aggravating factors
Yes, for small amounts, 15 grams or less, not more than 30 grams of dried cannabis and/or possession of the equipment used for cannabis, NSW Police can issue a Cannabis Caution.
The Cannabis Cautioning Scheme has been in place since 2000 and is operated by the NSW Police Force. The Scheme was developed in response to a NSW Drug Summit finding in 1999. Police exercise their discretion in appropriate cases and issue a caution as a police intervention to assist individuals to consider the legal and health ramifications of their cannabis use and to seek treatment and support.
However, for more serious cannabis offences, it is essential you seek immediate legal advice.
No, having physical possession of the drug is enough. You can be charged even if you were not planning to use the drug at the time.
Yes! Being a first-time offender to a drug offence may lessen the likelihood of going to jail, depending on your case. Section 21A of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 (3e) sets out the mitigating factors that the courts must take into consideration whilst sentencing. This includes whether the offender has a significant criminal record or none at all.
Methods that help first-time drug offenders avoid conviction include:
- Pursuing drug court programs
- Actively seeking rehabilitation
- Securing a section 10
- Submitting an apology letter to the court
- Presenting character references
However, seeking professional help is the best way to secure a positive outcome for your situation.
Yes, in some cases if there is no evidence of actual supply and you can demonstrate that the drugs were for personal use, your lawyer may be able to negotiate with the police or the prosecution to downgrade the charge to a possession charge.
Yes, deemed supply is treated seriously and you can be given a custodial sentence depending on the circumstances of your case. It is essential you seek legal advice to receive the best legal representation and outcome for your case.
Intent does not apply in the earlier stages of the charge, if you are found with more than the trafficable amount, the law automatically presumes intent to supply. You can challenge this presumption in court; your lawyer will be able to assist you in overcoming this presumption.
Deemed supply is when a person is presumed to be supplying drugs based on the quantity in their possession, even without evidence of distribution.
Actual supply relates to having direct evidence that the person supplied or intended to supply the illicit drugs. The proof needed for deemed supply is possession of a trafficable quantity, while actual supply requires evidence of intent or actions to supply, such as communications or surveillance.
Contained in Schedule 1 of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985, it sets out a list of trafficable amounts per prohibited substance. The most common substances brought before the court are contained in the table.
The prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that the accused was in possession of a drug greater than the trafficable quantity. If they cannot, section 29 of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 does not apply.
Being charged with deemed supply or involvement in any drug matter is serious. It is very important that you obtain immediate legal advice. We have a highly sought after track record of successfully defending deemed drug supply charges and drug matters.
Yes, even if there is no exchange of money, sharing or giving a prohibited drug is considered supply under NSW law.
Supply involves evidence of distribution or intent to distribute. Deemed supply applies when someone is caught with more than a trafficable quantity; the law presumes intent to supply without proof of actual distribution.
Intent can include messages arranging deals, possession of multiple resealable bags and scales, large amounts of unexplained cash, or presence in areas known for drug distribution.
Courts consider circumstances, criminal history, character, and mitigating factors. Low-level supply for first-time offenders rarely results in severe imprisonment; alternatives such as fines or community orders are often considered.
This is a tricky question. In 2006, the federal government passed legislation making it legal to cultivate cannabis for medicinal purposes if you obtain and have a licence. Even though cannabis can now legally be grown in Australia there are strict controls in place.
However, if you do not obtain a licence, it is a serious criminal offence as set out in the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act. It remains a criminal offence to grow cannabis in NSW outside of the federal licensing scheme.
Medicinal use in NSW is subject to the federal licensing scheme and it has subsequently introduced a Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use Scheme.
Yes, you can. If you are the owner of a property, tenant, or person in control of a property where cultivation occurs of a prohibited drug, you may be criminally responsible under NSW legislation. If there has been drug cultivation on your property and you were not involved, it is essential to seek appropriate legal advice.
Yes, even if the plants are not yours, cultivating on behalf of another person is still a serious offence. Assisting or facilitating cultivation is treated as joint criminal responsibility under NSW legislation.
It depends. In the instance that a landlord knowingly allows cultivation on their property and takes no action, they may be charged with permitting the use of the premises for drug offences as contained under section 36A of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985.
Importing and exporting prohibited drugs are primarily a Commonwealth offence under the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth), making it a federal offence. However, it is common for NSW law enforcement authorities to investigate and prosecute in conjunction with federal agencies such as the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Border Force (ABF).
Lack of knowledge may be a defence to your case and the prosecution must prove intent or recklessness. If you knew or were wilfully blind, you can still be found guilty. Hence it is essential to seek good and accurate legal advice to help you with your situation.
Delivery packages are scanned and intercepted by the Australian Border Force (ABF). If drugs are found, you may be tracked and arrested during delivery. Drug importation through the course of mail couriers is treated the same as any other form of drug importation.
Yes. Importing or exporting prescription drugs without proper authorisation is illegal. A permit from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) or Australian Border Force (ABF) is necessary, depending on the drug. You must comply with the Australian Customs Act 1901 and other related legislation to ensure the safe and legal transfer of prescription drugs.
For personal use, certain prescription medications may be allowed to be imported or exported, but they still require proper authorisation. You will need to provide evidence that the medication is for personal use, such as a doctor’s prescription. Additionally, the amount should be reasonable for personal consumption and comply with the import/export limits.
Yes, there are strict restrictions on bringing any type of drug into NSW from overseas. Drugs such as cannabis, opioids, and other illicit substances are prohibited. Even prescription medications can be restricted if they contain controlled ingredients. Customs will inspect and seize any drugs brought into the country without appropriate permits or licences.
Individuals who are not commercial entities may still be subject to the same legal requirements for importing or exporting drugs. This includes needing permits and complying with relevant laws, even if the shipment is for personal use. Unauthorised shipments are illegal and may result in severe legal consequences.
Legally, manufacturing a prohibited drug typically refers to being included in the production. This could include, for example, going to a friend’s house and helping him operate a pill press, or buying an at-home kit and making your own MDMA at home.
No, it can also include any steps that are part of the production process. Even partial steps like mixing precursors, assembling lab equipment, or preparing ingredients with the intent to manufacture a prohibited substance.
No, even on a small scale it is illegal. It is a criminal offence under section 24(1) of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) that drug manufacturing is illegal, regardless of the scale and quantity.
Absolutely. Prosecutors need to prove that there was intent to produce a prohibited drug. Mere possession of certain chemicals or tools without intent may not meet the legal definition of manufacturing. However, in any circumstance it is essential to have a strong legal professional to help in differentiating your involvement.
Precursor substances are substances that are used to make prohibited drugs in NSW. NSW law restricts the unauthorised possession of certain precursors such as pseudoephedrine if they are intended for manufacturing of illegal drugs.
The full list of prohibited drugs is contained in Schedule 1 of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW). Common examples are:
- Methamphetamine; also known more commonly as ice
- MDMA; also known more commonly as ecstasy
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- LSD
- Synthetic cannabinoids
- Cannabis; and cannabis oils
- Yes.
It is essential to seek legal advice immediately if you are accused of any drug offence. A skilled criminal defence lawyer can explain the charges, assess the evidence, identify possible defences, and represent you in court to protect your rights and achieve the best possible result.
Yes. Under section 29 of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985, if you are found with more than the trafficable quantity, the law presumes intent to supply unless proven otherwise.
Yes. For small amounts (15 to 30 grams of dried cannabis), NSW Police may issue a Cannabis Caution.
The Cannabis Cautioning Scheme:
- Has been in place since 2000
- Is operated by the NSW Police Force
- Was developed after the 1999 NSW Drug Summit
Police have discretion to issue a caution, encouraging legal awareness and health support.
For more serious offences, seek legal advice immediately.
Importing and exporting prohibited drugs are primarily a Commonwealth offence under the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth), making it a federal offence. However, it is common for NSW law enforcement authorities to investigate and prosecute in conjunction with federal agencies such as the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Border Force (ABF).
Lack of knowledge may be a defence to your case and the prosecution must prove intent or recklessness. If you knew or were wilfully blind, you can still be found guilty. Hence it is essential to seek good and accurate legal advice to help you with your situation.
Delivery packages are scanned and intercepted by the Australian Border Force (ABF). If drugs are found, you may be tracked and arrested during delivery. Drug importation through the course of mail couriers is treated the same as any other form of drug importation.
Yes. Importing or exporting prescription drugs without proper authorisation is illegal. A permit from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) or Australian Border Force (ABF) is necessary, depending on the drug. You must comply with the Australian Customs Act 1901 and other related legislation to ensure the safe and legal transfer of prescription drugs.
For personal use, certain prescription medications may be allowed to be imported or exported, but they still require proper authorisation. You will need to provide evidence that the medication is for personal use, such as a doctor’s prescription. Additionally, the amount should be reasonable for personal consumption and comply with the import/export limits.
Yes, there are strict restrictions on bringing any type of drug into NSW from overseas. Drugs such as cannabis, opioids, and other illicit substances are prohibited. Even prescription medications can be restricted if they contain controlled ingredients. Customs will inspect and seize any drugs brought into the country without appropriate permits or licences.
Individuals who are not commercial entities may still be subject to the same legal requirements for importing or exporting drugs. This includes needing permits and complying with relevant laws, even if the shipment is for personal use. Unauthorised shipments are illegal and may result in severe legal consequences.
The full list of prohibited drugs is contained in Schedule 1 of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW). Common examples are:
- Methamphetamine; also known more commonly as ice
- MDMA; also known more commonly as ecstasy
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- LSD
- Synthetic cannabinoids
- Cannabis; and cannabis oils
- Yes.
It is essential to seek legal advice immediately if you are accused of any drug offence. A skilled criminal defence lawyer can explain the charges, assess the evidence, identify possible defences, and represent you in court to protect your rights and achieve the best possible result.
SUCCESS CASES & ARTICLES
Brightstone Defence delivers focused criminal defence services year-round and has built a strong track record of successful outcomes.
Meet our lawyers
WORLD CLASS
REPRESENTATION
100+ 5 Star Reviews
Personalised legal strategies tailored to each case
Recognised leaders in criminal defence law
Free initial consultation and case evaluation
Proven success in high-stakes and complex cases
Get AN instant estimated Quote
and a free consultation session
Facing criminal charges? Our experienced criminal defence lawyers are here to help. Book your free consultation now to discuss your case and understand your options.
