In Australia, NSW Government responded to an impact report of the cannabis regulatory framework in the state.
A related parliamentary inquiry was established in March 2024, the final report from which was released in June this year. Among the recommendations made were decriminalising the use and possession of cannabis with view to consideration of further reforms towards a regulated legalised cannabis market.
Report also expressed concern about importers being subjected to less regulation than local producers, and that people driving with cannabis still in their system – particularly medical cannabis patients – would continue to be prosecuted. The issue is not limited to New South Wales but affects all Australian states and territory.
In its response, the NSW Government reiterated its stance concerning decriminalisation/legalisation of cannabis:
In previous statements, the NSW Government made it very clear that the Government had no intention of decriminalising or legalising cannabis.
In its final report, the Committee also recommended that 11 reforms be made to policy. Among these were medical defenses for drivers with detectable levels of THC.
The response states that “The Report of the 2024 NSW Drug Summit, and its recommendations, will guide any reforms to drug policies in NSW by the government.” “The Government will give its response to the recommendations of the report in due time.”
Earlier, the State Government said that it would respond to this sometime in 2019.
The State Government also noted that the Commonwealth Government should consider regulating and supporting the medicinal cannabis sector.
The NSW Government has a Cannabis Cautioning Scheme that deals with minor cannabis offenses. Police can issue a formal caution to convicted offenders rather than charge them.
In May, Cate Faehrmann (MLC, New South Wales Greens), who was a part of the Inquiry panel, brought the Road Transport Amendment Bill (2025) to NSW’s parliament. The bill addresses the question of medical cannabis and driving. Since May, there has been no more activity.