Quick Facts
| Legal Status | Since | Adult Use | Access Type | Est. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal (Medical) | 2016 (TGA approval) | No (ACT territory exception) | Any GP (since 2021 pathway change) | AUD $150-$450/month |
How to Get Medical Cannabis in Australia
- Visit your GP — since 2021, any GP can prescribe through the simplified TGA Authorised Prescriber or SAS pathway
- GP assesses your condition and issues a prescription
- Prescription is filled at a licensed pharmacy (many online pharmacy options)
- Products are from licensed Australian producers or imported
- Monthly follow-up appointments recommended
Qualifying Conditions
- Any condition at the doctor's clinical discretion
- Common: chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, cancer, MS, PTSD, epilepsy, chemotherapy side effects
Cost & Clinics
Australia greatly simplified medical cannabis access in 2021 when the TGA changed the Authorised Prescriber pathway, making any GP able to prescribe. Major clinic networks include Polln, Canna Pacific, CanView, and Epilepsy Action. Australia has a large and rapidly growing medical cannabis market. The ACT (Australian Capital Territory) has decriminalised personal possession, but retail adult-use is not federally legal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is medical cannabis legal in Australia?
Yes — since 2016, with major accessibility improvements in 2021. Any GP can now prescribe through the TGA's Authorised Prescriber pathway.
How do I get a medical cannabis prescription in Australia?
Visit your GP — since the 2021 TGA pathway change, any GP can prescribe. Many clinics (Polln, Canna Pacific, CanView) specialise in medical cannabis and offer online consultations.
How much does medical cannabis cost in Australia?
Approximately AUD $150–$450 per month. Medicare does not cover medical cannabis costs. Some private insurance plans may cover part of the cost.
Is adult-use cannabis legal in Australia?
Not federally. The ACT (Canberra) territory allows personal possession and cultivation, but federal law applies at airports and across state borders. Other states do not permit adult-use.