Cannabis in Geraldton: Laws, Use, and Changing Perspectives

Geraldton, a coastal city in Western Australia (WA), is known for its beautiful beaches, fishing industry, and laid-back lifestyle. However, like many places in Australia, cannabis use remains a controversial issue. While medicinal cannabis is legal under strict regulations, recreational cannabis remains illegal, though it is still widely used.

Despite the legal restrictions, cannabis has a presence in Geraldton’s social scene, with some people using it for relaxation, pain management, or personal enjoyment. However, strict drug laws and police crackdowns mean that cannabis users must be cautious.

Cannabis Laws in Geraldton

1. Recreational Cannabis: Illegal but Decriminalized in Some Cases

In WA, recreational cannabis is illegal, but minor possession does not always lead to criminal charges.

• If caught with less than 10 grams of cannabis, first-time offenders may receive a Cannabis Intervention Requirement (CIR) instead of facing legal action. This means they must attend a counseling session rather than being charged with a crime.
• Possessing larger amounts, selling, or growing cannabis is treated more severely and can lead to heavy fines or jail time.
• Growing cannabis at home is illegal, even for personal use.

Despite these laws, many people in Geraldton still use cannabis, often sourcing it through underground markets.

2. Medicinal Cannabis: Legal but Hard to Access

Medicinal cannabis was legalized in Australia in 2016, but getting a prescription is not easy.

• Patients must visit a doctor who is authorized to prescribe medicinal cannabis or go through the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Special Access Scheme (SAS).
• Medicinal cannabis can be prescribed for conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, and chemotherapy side effects.
• However, the cost is high, and it is not covered by Medicare, making it unaffordable for many.

Because of this, some people in Geraldton turn to illegal cannabis instead of going through the expensive and complicated legal process.

3. Drug Driving Laws: A Risk for Cannabis Users

Western Australia has zero-tolerance drug driving laws, meaning any trace of THC in a driver’s system can result in a license suspension, fines, or legal action.

• THC (the active compound in cannabis) can stay in the system for days or even weeks, meaning someone who used cannabis days ago could still test positive.
• This creates problems for medicinal cannabis users, who may test positive even when they are not impaired.

Because of these strict laws, many people in Geraldton who use cannabis—legally or illegally—must be very careful about driving.

Cannabis Culture in Geraldton

Cannabis is popular in Geraldton’s surf and fishing communities, as well as among younger people and those using it for pain relief. Many people use it privately at home, while some risk growing their own plants, despite the legal consequences.

While police in Geraldton mainly focus on larger drug crimes, individuals caught with cannabis can still face legal trouble.

The Future of Cannabis in Geraldton

The discussion around cannabis legalization and decriminalization is growing in Australia.

• The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has already legalized personal cannabis use, sparking debates in other states.
• Some experts argue that legalizing and regulating cannabis could reduce crime, boost the economy, and allow safer access.

For now, cannabis users in Geraldton must navigate strict laws, but changes in public opinion and government policy may lead to a more relaxed approach in the future.