Benzodiazepines are only available with a medical prescription. Illegal use, possession, manufacture or supply of benzodiazepines carries heavy fines and/or prison sentences. The maximum penalties range from a $2,000 fine and/or two years in prison to a $100,000 fine and/or imprisonment for 25 years.
The person prescribed the tablets can be linked to their tablets by a barcode on the packet. This has been done to reduce the illegal trade in benzodiazepines.
Any person convicted of a drug offence will receive a criminal record, which can lead to difficulties in getting a job, credit or a visa for overseas travel.