Cocaine is a controlled drug in Australia. According to the Therapeutic Goods (Poisons Standard—June 2026) Instrument 2026, cocaine is a ‘Schedule 8’ drug.

It is generally illegal to possess, use, manufacture, import, export or supply cocaine without lawful authority. Penalties vary between Australian jurisdictions and may include fines, imprisonment, and disqualification from driving. It is also an offence in all jurisdictions to drive under the influence of cocaine, and in most jurisdictions to drive with cocaine present in oral fluid, blood or other prescribed bodily samples.

Some states and territories operate police or court diversion programs that may provide treatment or education options for people apprehended with small quantities of illicit drugs, including cocaine, instead of proceeding through the criminal justice system.