Cannabis in St Albans: Laws, Usage, and Public Perception

St Albans, a multicultural suburb in Melbourne’s west, has a growing conversation around cannabis. While medicinal cannabis is legal under strict regulations, recreational cannabis remains illegal in Victoria. However, public attitudes are shifting, and cannabis use remains common among various age groups.

Cannabis Laws in St Albans

1. Recreational Cannabis: Still Illegal, but Decriminalized in Small Amounts

Victoria has some of the strictest cannabis laws in Australia, though small amounts for personal use may not always lead to serious consequences.

• If caught with a small amount (up to 50 grams) for personal use, first-time offenders are often given a diversion program or warning rather than criminal charges.
• However, repeat offenders or those caught selling or growing cannabis can face fines, criminal records, or even prison time.
• Cannabis possession and consumption in public places is illegal and can lead to hefty fines.

Despite the law, many people in St Albans continue to use cannabis, often obtaining it through underground sources or growing their own, despite the legal risks.

2. Medicinal Cannabis: Legal but Difficult to Access

Since 2016, medicinal cannabis has been legal in Australia. However, getting a prescription is still a challenge.

• Patients must get approval from a specialist doctor or apply through the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Special Access Scheme (SAS).
• Medicinal cannabis can be prescribed for chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, anxiety, and chemotherapy side effects.
• The cost of medicinal cannabis is very high, and it is not covered by Medicare, making it unaffordable for many.

Due to these difficulties, some people in St Albans choose to buy illegal cannabis instead of going through the lengthy and expensive legal process.

3. Drug Driving Laws: A Challenge for Cannabis Users

Victoria has a zero-tolerance drug driving policy, meaning that any amount of THC in a driver’s system is an offense.

• Even if a person is not impaired, they can still lose their license or face fines if they test positive for THC.
• THC can remain in the body for days or weeks, meaning that even medicinal cannabis users risk legal trouble.

This strict law is a major issue for people who rely on cannabis for medical reasons.

Cannabis Culture in St Albans

Cannabis is widely used in St Albans, especially among young adults, working-class communities, and those seeking relief from chronic pain or stress. Some people choose to grow small amounts at home, despite the legal risks.

Police occasionally conduct raids on illegal cannabis operations, but casual users are rarely the main target unless caught in public or driving under the influence.

The Future of Cannabis in St Albans

With the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) legalizing personal cannabis use, discussions about cannabis legalization or decriminalization in Victoria are increasing.

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

For now, cannabis remains illegal in St Albans, but with shifting public opinion, changes in policy may be on the horizon.