Gut Health

The Complete Guide to Weight-Loss Medications in Australia (2026)

Reviewed By: Cody Martin

Written By: Alice Crabb

Published at: 07/20/2026

Updated at: 07/20/2026

The weight-loss medication landscape in Australia has changed more in the past 18 months than in the previous decade — and if you're trying to make sense of it, this is where to start

Overview

Australia’s weight-loss medication landscape has changed significantly since 2024. This guide covers the key GLP-1 medications currently available - Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro - including their TGA approval status, current costs, PBS eligibility, and what the compounding ban means for patients. Whether you’re currently on a medication, considering starting, or trying to understand your options, this is what you need to know.

1. GLP-1 Medications: An Overview

Australia's weight-loss medication landscape has shifted fast over the past two years - new drugs, tighter TGA rules, and a PBS subsidy finally taking shape. Here's where things stand in 2026.

1.1 What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a natural hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar - slowing digestion, reducing hunger, and increasing fullness. Originally for type 2 diabetes, several are now also TGA-approved for weight management.

1.2 The Medications Currently Available in Australia

Ozempic (semaglutide)

TGA-approved for type 2 diabetes only; weight-loss use is off-label. Since October 2024, new off-label prescriptions for weight loss have been heavily restricted (existing patients can continue). PBS price for diabetes: ~$31.60/month. Private (off-label weight loss): ~$130–$220/month.

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg)

Wegovy contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic but at a higher dose, and is specifically TGA-approved for chronic weight management. PBAC recommended it for PBS listing in November 2025, but it's not yet finalised as of mid-2026. PBS access, once confirmed, will be narrow: only for people with established cardiovascular disease and a BMI ≥35 (≥32.5 for Asian, Aboriginal, or Torres Strait Islander people). Until then, private cost: ~$350–$450/month.

Mounjaro (tirzepatide)

Mounjaro is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist - a different mechanism to the others that is TGA-approved for both diabetes and weight management. PBS-listed for diabetes only. For weight loss: ~$350–$500/month private, depending on dose.

1.3 The Compounding Ban

Since October 2024, pharmacies can no longer compound replica GLP-1 drugs. Compounded versions were previously cheaper but linked to safety concerns, contamination, and inconsistent dosing.

1.4 Getting Access

All GLP-1 medications require a prescription from a GP or specialist - Telehealth has widened access, but eligibility and suitability should always be assessed by a qualified clinician.

The Bottom Line

The options available to Australians seeking weight-loss medication support are broader than they were two years ago, but so is the complexity around accessing them.

Understanding what each medication is approved for, what it costs, and how the PBS system applies is the starting point for any informed conversation between a patient and their doctor.

1.

Blundell, J., Finlayson, G., Axelsen, M., Flint, A., Gibbons, C., Kvist, T., & Hjerpsted, J. B. (2017). Effects of once-weekly semaglutide on appetite, energy intake, energy expenditure, glucose metabolism, and body composition in adults with overweight or obesity. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 19(9), 1242–1251.

2.

Dietitians Australia. (2025, December 19). Dietitians Australia statement on PBAC announcement.

3.

Hjerpsted, J. B., Flint, A., Brooks, A., Axelsen, M. B., Kvist, T., & Blundell, J. (2018). Semaglutide improves postprandial glucose and lipid metabolism, and delays first-hour gastric emptying in subjects with obesity. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 20(3), 610–619.

4.

Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee. (2025). PBAC positive recommendation: Semaglutide (Wegovy) for established cardiovascular disease with obesity. Australian Government Department of Health.

5.

Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Rosenstock, J., Tran, M. T. D., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., Zeuthen, N., & Kushner, R. F. (2021). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989–1002.

6.

Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Kandler, K., Konakli, K., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Oral, T. K., Rosenstock, J., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., & Kushner, R. F. (2022). Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 24(8), 1553–1564.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards here.

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