Cannabis in Frankston: Laws, Use, and Public Opinion

Frankston, a coastal suburb in Melbourne’s southeast, has a complex relationship with cannabis. While medicinal cannabis is legal under strict regulations, recreational use remains illegal in Victoria. However, cannabis culture is strong in the area, with many locals using it recreationally or for self-medication.

Cannabis Laws in Frankston

1. Recreational Cannabis: Illegal but Decriminalized for Small Amounts

Victoria maintains strict cannabis laws, though small personal amounts are often dealt with through warnings or diversion programs rather than criminal charges.

• If caught with less than 50 grams, first-time offenders may be given a caution and referred to an education program.
• Repeat offenders or those caught selling or growing cannabis can face heavy fines, criminal charges, or even prison sentences.
• Public use remains strictly prohibited, and police regularly patrol areas to enforce these laws.

Despite the risks, cannabis remains popular in Frankston, especially among young people and those in alternative communities.

2. Medicinal Cannabis: Legal but Hard to Access

Since 2016, medicinal cannabis has been legal in Victoria, but access remains challenging due to strict regulations and high costs.

• It requires a doctor’s prescription and approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
• It is often prescribed for chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy side effects.
• Medicinal cannabis is not covered by Medicare, making it expensive for many patients.

Due to these barriers, some people in Frankston turn to the black market instead of going through the legal process.

3. Drug Driving Laws: A Big Issue for Users

Victoria has zero tolerance for drug driving, meaning that any trace of THC in a driver’s system can lead to penalties, even if they’re not impaired.

• THC can remain in the body for days or even weeks, so medicinal cannabis users are at risk of losing their licenses.
• This law has led to debates about fairness for medical patients, who may be penalized despite following legal treatment plans.

Cannabis Culture in Frankston

Frankston has a strong cannabis culture, with many locals using it for recreational and medicinal purposes. The suburb has a diverse population, and cannabis is commonly used across different age groups and social classes.

Police occasionally conduct drug raids, especially targeting larger illegal grow operations, but personal users are rarely the focus unless caught in public or driving under the influence.

The Future of Cannabis in Frankston

With the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) legalizing personal cannabis use, there is growing debate about whether Victoria should follow.

• Advocates argue that legalization could reduce crime, increase tax revenue, and provide safer access.
• Others worry about health risks and increased usage among young people.

For now, cannabis remains illegal in Frankston, but shifting public opinion and discussions around reform could lead to changes in the coming years.