Summary

The use of cannabis for medical or any other purposes is currently prohibited in all Australian States and Territories, although penalties for possession and use differ between jurisdictions.

Over the past decade, there has been considerable controversy about the possible therapeutic uses of the Cannabis sativa plant, and the chemical substances (cannabinoids) it contains, for patients with certain medical conditions.

This report on the therapeutic potential of cannabis has been prepared by a group of clinicians, lawyers and researchers, who were asked to advise the NSW Government on:

• Whether the NSW government should allow patients with some medical conditions to use cannabis for medical purposes; and
• If so, how this might be achieved without legalising or decriminalising the recreational use of cannabis.

Download this resource

• Report of the Working Party on the Use of Cannabis for Medical Purposes - Volume 1 (Executive Summary)