Andrea Dawkins MP | Greens' Primary Industries spokesperson
The Greens welcome the Federal Health Minister's medicinal cannabis announcement today. This policy change is a step in the right direction.
Unfortunately for many patients needing treatment, there's still a limited supply of products. Many users of medicinal cannabis are still being forced to break the law to treat chronic conditions or terminal illnesses.
The Federal Government are heading in the right direction, but many patients won't be able to take advantage because of the affordability and access issues.
Commercial medicinal cannabis products are also often expensive. Sativex, for example, can cost patients up to $1,500 a vial.
People are currently being forced to break the law to access medicinal cannabis. Most Tasmanians who use it can't risk waiting for the State's Controlled Access Scheme, or for products to be available in pharmacies.
Those suffering chronic or terminal illnesses, and their families, can't wait for government access schemes. They either need access now, or protection from the criminal charges.