A chemical used in cleaning products, plastics, and spandex is now at the centre of a growing drug crisis in Australia. The solvent 1,4-Butanediol (1,4-BD)—commonly known on the streets as fantasy or bute—is being smuggled into the country in record quantities, fuelling overdoses and sexual assaults and prompting urgent warnings from law enforcement.
The drug is often misused as a party drug or to commit serious crimes such as theft, sexual assault, and drink spiking. Its innocuous-sounding nickname, “fantasy,” disguises the horrific consequences it can cause, AFP Acting Assistant Commissioner Paula Hudson warned.
“Although 1,4-Butanediol has legitimate industrial uses, the volumes and concealment methods in illegal imports clearly suggest criminal intent,” Hudson said.
“It is not only dangerous to the user—it can also be an instrument of crime.”
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has seized more than 1,4-BD than any other illicit drug in the past year, following changes to Commonwealth legislation that made it a border-controlled substance from 1 March 2024. Between then and 30 April 2025, authorities seized more than 18.3 tonnes, with 90 per cent intercepted in New South Wales alone. Already in 2025, over 3.8 tonnes have been confiscated.
When ingested, 1,4-BD converts into gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a potent central nervous system depressant that can cause drowsiness, seizures, unconsciousness, or even death. A matter of milligrams can mean the difference between life and death.
Authorities say they are seeing increasing evidence of criminal syndicates using deceptive methods to smuggle the drug into the country. In November 2024, a Sydney man was charged after allegedly importing seven litres of 1,4-BD disguised as “shark essence oil” from Hong Kong. In August, a Queensland man was charged after allegedly receiving 60 litres hidden in shower gel bottles sent from China.
The AFP and Australian Border Force have adopted a zero-tolerance stance, intensifying efforts to intercept shipments and dismantle smuggling networks.
“Organised crime doesn’t care about the lives shattered by this substance—they only care about profit,” said Hudson.
“There is no safe dose of this drug. We will use the full force of the law to stop those who bring this poison into our communities.”
The drug is now classified alongside methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine, with convicted importers facing up to life imprisonment.
Authorities estimate that the seizures have saved billions in healthcare costs and community harm, but warn that criminal networks continue to adapt and exploit demand.
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
