Cannabis is illegal in every Australian state (including New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia Tasmania, and Northern Territory) except for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The ACT includes Australia’s capital city, Canberra, as well as its surrounding jurisdiction.
As of January 31, 2020, people in ACT can possess small amounts of cannabis for personal use. Wildly enough, this conflicts with federal laws, which still forbids the recreational use of cannabis.
Photo by Social Estate on Unsplash
The ACT Law Allows Personal and Medicinal Use of Cannabis
That being said, how the ACT defines “small amounts” is very generous. Residents over the age of 18 can carry up to 50 grams of cannabis and grow as many as four plants. The plants must be planted or potted outdoors. Furthermore, cannabis can’t be grown in communal gardens and must be kept away from children.
However, medicinal cannabis is also available for those who need it. Doctors need to request approval from the ACT chief health officer and the TGA before prescribing medical cannabis to their patients. Use it to feel better.
Sharing Weed in Australia is Illegal
Cannabis laws in the ACT conflict with the Commonwealth law, which is the Australian federal law. Lawmakers said that it could be possible to be prosecuted for possession, use, or production of cannabis.
Furthermore, ACT chief police officer Ray Johnson has warned that gifting or sharing weed is illegal and can be prosecuted.
“If there’s evidence that someone is providing cannabis to someone else, that’s supply and that’s an offense,” he said.
The Contradictions are Confusing the Police and the Locals
Photo by Paul-Alain Hunt on Unsplash
Officials often follow the local laws and have discretion for the use of cannabis. However, the laws contradict themselves. Buying, selling, or exchanging seeds still remains illegal. Growing plants is perfectly legal, but obtaining seeds could sentence you to a serious fine or up to two years of jail time.
Obtaining cannabis in Canberra is confusing (and illegal), no matter how you look at it. The laws are filled with so many caveats; even the officials are unsure how to proceed. This has created tension between the police force and their obligation to the Commonwealth law and that for the ACT government policy intent.
Residents must exercise caution and discretion. If you visit, take notes so you don’t run into any surprises with the law and are able to enjoy yourself safely in Canberra.
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