Kava
Kava comes from the root of the pepper plant piper methysticum.
It is used in traditional ceremonies and for social occasions in many places in the Pacific Islands.
In the Northern Territory, Aboriginal people make a kava drink by mixing the dry, powdered root with water.
The strength of the kava varies greatly on the plant form and how it is prepared.
Kava laws
Kava is illegal in the NT.
You are not allowed to do any of the following:
- possess
- import
- sell
- supply
- cultivate
- manufacture and produce.
Incoming passengers to Australia can have up to 2kg of Kava in their baggage, read more about this in section 4 of the Kava Management Act 1998.
Changes to national law
Changes to national law have opened avenues for kava to be reintroduced commercially in the NT.
The NT Government is working with the Australian Government on progressing matters.
This includes practical options to effectively managing kava in the NT.
Risks
There are significant historical issues and risks associated around kava in the NT, which are widely known.
Extreme care is being taken to avoid potential harm previously associated with consuming kava.
Culturally-sensitive approach
Steps are being taken around the design of a comprehensive and culturally-sensitive approach to gauge local opinions about kava.
This includes whether communities support introducing it into their area.
Timing
There is no current roadmap of future plans at this stage.
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