Cannabis in Preston: Legal Status, Use, and Public Opinion

Preston, a suburb in Melbourne’s north, is home to a diverse community with varied views on cannabis use. While Victoria has made progress with medicinal cannabis legalization, recreational cannabis remains illegal. However, its use is common, and discussions around decriminalization and legalization are growing.

Cannabis Laws in Preston

1. Recreational Cannabis: Illegal but Partially Decriminalized

Victoria does not allow recreational cannabis use, but penalties for small amounts have been softened.

• First-time offenders caught with a small amount (typically under 50 grams) may receive a caution and be directed to a drug education program instead of facing criminal charges.
• Repeat offenses or possession of larger amounts can lead to fines or court cases.
• Selling and distributing cannabis remain serious offenses, with harsh penalties for those caught growing or supplying.

Despite the laws, cannabis remains widely available in Preston, with users often sourcing it from black-market suppliers or home-growers.

2. Medicinal Cannabis: Legal but Not Easily Accessible

Victoria was the first state in Australia to legalize medicinal cannabis in 2016, but access is still limited.

• Patients need a prescription from an approved doctor, and approval must go through the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
• Chronic pain, epilepsy, and mental health conditions are among the reasons cannabis can be prescribed, but many doctors are hesitant to approve it.
• Medicinal cannabis is not covered by Medicare, making it expensive compared to black-market alternatives.

While some Preston residents have successfully obtained legal prescriptions, others turn to illegal suppliers due to cost and bureaucracy.

3. Driving Laws and Cannabis Use

Victoria has strict drug-driving laws, which affect both recreational and medicinal users.

• Roadside saliva tests detect THC, even if the driver is not impaired at the time.
• A positive test can result in fines, license suspension, or legal action.
• Many medicinal cannabis users struggle with these laws, as they can legally take cannabis but still face consequences if they drive.

There is ongoing debate about whether medicinal users should be exempt or if Victoria’s drug-driving laws need reform.

Public Attitudes Toward Cannabis in Preston

Preston has a diverse and evolving view on cannabis, influenced by its mix of young professionals, students, and long-term residents.

• Younger and progressive groups tend to support legalization, arguing that it could reduce crime, generate tax revenue, and regulate product safety.
• Older and conservative residents often express concerns about mental health risks, addiction, and crime.
• Reports of illegal grow houses and cannabis-related crime in Melbourne’s north have contributed to some negative perceptions.

The Future of Cannabis in Victoria

Victoria has seen growing discussions on cannabis reform.

• In 2023, the Victorian Greens proposed a bill to legalize personal cannabis use, but the proposal did not pass.
• The ACT has decriminalized cannabis, prompting debates on whether Victoria should follow.
• Some experts argue that legalization could reduce black-market activity, while opponents worry about public health risks.

For now, cannabis remains illegal in Preston, but changing attitudes suggest that legalization debates will continue.