Cannabis in Geelong: Laws, Usage, and Future Perspectives

Geelong, Victoria’s second-largest city, has a growing and diverse population, including students, professionals, and retirees. With its proximity to Melbourne and a relaxed coastal lifestyle, cannabis use is common among certain groups. However, despite shifting public attitudes, cannabis remains illegal for recreational use in Geelong, while medical cannabis is available under strict regulations.

Current Cannabis Laws in Geelong

Since Geelong follows Victoria state laws, cannabis is regulated under the Drugs, Poisons, and Controlled Substances Act 1981. The key points regarding cannabis laws include:

• Recreational cannabis is illegal—possession, use, sale, and cultivation carry legal penalties.
• Medical cannabis is legal but requires a prescription from an authorized doctor.
• Small amounts for personal use may result in a warning rather than a criminal charge.

Possession and Penalties

The legal consequences for cannabis possession depend on the amount and circumstances:

• Personal Use (Up to 50g) → Police may issue a caution instead of a criminal charge, especially for first-time offenders.
• More than 50g → Possession can result in fines or court appearances.
• Growing or selling cannabis → Considered drug trafficking, carrying severe penalties, including potential jail time.

Victoria has a diversion program for first-time offenders caught with small amounts, focusing on education and harm reduction instead of punishment.

Medical Cannabis in Geelong

Since 2016, medical cannabis has been legal in Victoria. However, obtaining a prescription involves several steps:

1. A doctor must determine eligibility, usually for conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, or cancer-related symptoms.
2. Approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is required in most cases.
3. Medical cannabis is not covered by Medicare, making it expensive for many patients.

Due to the high cost and bureaucratic hurdles, some people in Geelong turn to the black market for cannabis instead of obtaining it legally.

Cannabis Culture in Geelong

Despite its legal status, cannabis use is relatively common in Geelong. The main groups using cannabis include:

• University students and young adults for recreational and social use.
• Middle-aged users for stress relief, anxiety, and sleep issues.
• Medical users managing chronic pain or other conditions.

Popular Ways People Consume Cannabis

• Smoking (joints, bongs, or pipes)—traditional but noticeable.
• Vaping—a more discreet method.
• Edibles (brownies, gummies, oils)—gaining popularity.
• CBD products—legal if they contain minimal THC.

Challenges and the Future of Cannabis in Geelong

1. Calls for Legalization or Decriminalization

Many Victorians support cannabis decriminalization, especially since the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) legalized personal use in 2020.

2. Strict Drug Driving Laws

Victoria has zero-tolerance drug-driving laws, meaning even medical cannabis users can lose their license if they test positive for THC.

3. Expensive Medical Cannabis

Many patients struggle with high costs and access issues, leading them to illegal sources instead.

What’s Next?

As attitudes shift, many expect Victoria to ease cannabis laws in the coming years. For now, Geelong residents must navigate a legal system that is slow to reflect changing public opinion.