Revised: 2 April 2026

Committees

Medicines Classification Committee - Terms of Reference

The Medicines Classification Committee (MCC) is a ministerial advisory committee, established under section 8 of the Medicines Act 1981, whose terms of reference are to make recommendations to the Minister of Health regarding the classification of medicines as prescription medicines, restricted medicines, or pharmacy-only medicines. The MCC will also consider and report to the Minister on any matter concerning the classification of medicines and access to medicines by health professionals and the public. 

Meetings 

The MCC meets three times per year in April, July, and November. Secretariat support is provided by Medsafe. 

Membership 

Section 9 of the Medicines Act 1981 defines the membership requirements for the MCC. The MCC must comprise at least seven members with suitable experience. Members hold office for a term of three years, and may be reappointed for one further term.