GLP-1 medications in Australia: the complete 2025 guide
What are GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone naturally released in the gut after eating. They slow gastric emptying, suppress appetite signals in the brain, and improve insulin sensitivity. Originally developed for Type 2 diabetes management, their dramatic weight loss effects in clinical trials led to TGA approval for chronic weight management in Australia.
Quick facts
Which GLP-1 medications are TGA-approved in Australia?
Semaglutide (Wegovy) received TGA approval for chronic weight management in adults with obesity in 2024 and is the only GLP-1 currently approved for this specific indication in Australia. Ozempic (lower-dose semaglutide) is TGA-approved and PBS-listed for Type 2 diabetes management. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is TGA-approved for Type 2 diabetes but not yet approved for weight management as of early 2025. None of the weight management indications are currently PBS-listed, meaning full out-of-pocket costs apply.
How much do GLP-1 medications cost in Australia?
Without PBS subsidy, Wegovy costs approximately $199–$499 per month depending on the telehealth provider and dose. Consultation fees, ongoing monitoring, and compounding pharmacy fees add to the total. Most Australians access GLP-1 medications through telehealth clinics such as Juniper, Mosh, and hub.health, which bundle the consultation, prescription, and pharmacy fulfilment into a monthly subscription.
What does the research actually say?
The STEP 1 trial — the pivotal study for semaglutide approval — showed an average 14.9% body weight loss over 68 weeks in adults with obesity who did not have Type 2 diabetes. Importantly, two-thirds of participants regained the weight within one year of stopping treatment. This positions GLP-1 therapy as a long-term management tool rather than a one-time intervention. The SURMOUNT trials for tirzepatide showed even greater average weight loss (approximately 20%) but Australian regulatory approval for weight management is still pending.
How to access GLP-1 medications legally in Australia
The only legal pathway for GLP-1 medications in Australia is via prescription from an AHPRA-registered medical practitioner. Telehealth clinics have made this significantly more accessible — a typical pathway is: complete an eligibility questionnaire online, have a video or asynchronous consultation with a registered doctor, receive a prescription, and have medication dispensed and delivered by a partner compounding or retail pharmacy. ProtocolHub has compared the major Australian GLP-1 providers — see our clinic comparison for independent ratings and pricing.
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ProtocolHub provides educational information only. All peptide therapies require consultation with an AHPRA-registered medical practitioner. This site may earn affiliate commissions from partner referrals.
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