Medical marijuana is now officially legal to produce in Australia if you have the correct permits, following the introduction of the Narcotic Drugs Amendment Act 2016, which came into effect on Sunday.
Cannabis producers can now cultivate or manufacture cannabis products for medicinal purposes, and to conduct related research.
In a statement (Via The Guardian), Health Minister Sussan Ley said that it’s a step forward in allowing patients access to a legal source of cannabis.
“Until now, it has been difficult for patients to access medicinal cannabis products from overseas sources,” says Ley. “These new laws change that situation by providing for a domestic supply of medicinal cannabis products that are not readily available for import.”
Although its a vital step forward, United and Compassion co-founder Lucy Haslam told Fairfax Media last month that she fears “the industry will become so expensive that patients won’t be able to access a legal supply at an affordable price”.
“There’s also a lot of work to do on educating people and doctors, some of who remain a bit uncomfortable about prescribing medical cannabis to patients,” Haslam said.
The new act is strictly related to the medicinal use of marijuana, and will not decriminalise recreational use, with licence applicants needing to pass strict security measures. States and territories will also be able to decide who is eligible to use medical cannabis.
