Cannabis in Australia

Cannabis in Australia has a history of both recreational and medicinal use, with one of the highest cannabis prevalence rates globally. Cannabis for medicinal and scientific purposes was legalized federally on February 24, 2016. The Australian Capital Territory passed a bill on September 25, 2019, allowing possession and growth of small amounts for personal use from January 31, 2020, despite federal laws against recreational use. Attitudes toward legalization have shifted, with more Australians now supporting legal cannabis use.

Historical Overview of Cannabis in Australia

• Introduction of hemp seeds with the First Fleet
• Widespread cannabis consumption in the 19th century
• Early government support for hemp cultivation
• Restrictions on cannabis use post the Geneva Convention in the 1920s
• Prohibition model implementation with limited research

Evolution of Cannabis Legalization Efforts

• 1960s Cannabis Movement and drug use during the Vietnam War
• Legalization efforts in the 1970s-1980s with events like the Aquarius Festival riot
• Legalization for medicinal and scientific purposes in 2016
• Legalization of low-THC hemp food in 2017
• ACT’s bill allowing possession and growth of small cannabis amounts in 2019

Public Perception and Support for Cannabis Legalization

• Shifting attitudes towards cannabis legalization
• Support for decriminalization and legalization increasing over the years
• Positive shift in attitudes towards recreational cannabis legalization
• Majority of Australians no longer support cannabis possession as a criminal offense
• More support for cannabis legalization than opposition

Legislative Changes and Government Initiatives

• Recommendations and reports from various committees and task forces on cannabis
• Legislative actions and responses to cannabis possession and cultivation
• Government initiatives like the Community Drug Summit in Western Australia
• Acts allowing commercial hemp production and legalization of industrial hemp in various states
• Inclusion of cannabis-related products in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods

Cannabis Consumption Trends and Statistics

• Age and gender differences in cannabis use
• Reported consumption statistics from 2000 to 2020
• Decline and increase in cannabis use over different periods
• Consumption patterns among different age groups
• Legislative changes and inquiries related to cannabis use

Cannabis in Australia Data Sources