Lisa Singh

Senator Lisa Singh is calling on the Hodgman Government to reveal when medicinal cannabis will be made available in Tasmania, following today’s Federal Government announcement that medicinal cannabis imports will be allowed into Australia until local supplies can be cultivated.

In April 2016 the Hodgman Government announced that it would establish a Controlled Access Scheme for medicinal cannabis. (DHHS Fact Sheet below) But almost one year later, Tasmanians who use or possess medicinal cannabis can still be charged with criminal offences and dragged through the courts. 

“People suffering chronic pain should not have to wait this long,” said Senator Singh. 

“I call on Premier Will Hodgman to explain to Tasmanians when medicinal cannabis will be made available.

“The Hodgman Government needs to ensure it has completed its processes so that Tasmania does not fall further behind. 

“I ask the Premier to also explain how Tasmanians in need of medicinal cannabis can access it, and how they can identify an authorised provider.

“Medicinal cannabis can relieve the suffering of people with chronic disease, and it should be made available to Tasmanians as soon as possible.”

Senator Singh participated in a Senate inquiry into medicinal cannabis in 2015, and has been advocating for it to be made available in Tasmania.

The Federal Parliament passed legislation in February 2016 to make medicinal cannabis available in Australia.

Many Tasmanians are suffering pain and disease that cannot be effectively relieved by conventional medicines. Medicinal cannabis is not a new or controversial alternative treatment. It was legal in Australia until the 1950s, and there are now successful treatment schemes in operation around the world.