CANNABIS will be able to be grown in Australian states for medicinal use under a national scheme, streamlining what could be a new industry for farmers.

Federal Minister for Health Sussan Ley today announced plans for a singular licensing scheme for the controlled cultivation of the plant, to ensure consistency across the country.

It means states will no longer have to create their own cultivation laws — such as those Victoria had flagged in October — and removes the risk of differing legislation from state to state.

Ms Ley said the decision was made in consultation with the states, and law enforcement agencies.

“Allowing controlled cultivation locally will provide the critical “missing piece” for a sustainable legal supply of safe medicinal cannabis products for Australian patients in the future,” Ms Ley said.

“The ball is now rolling and we are making sure that happens as quickly and smoothly as possible.”

An exposure draft of the legislative changes would be provided to stakeholders this week, with the legislation to be introduced to Parliament early next year.

“We want to not only ensure these legislative amendments are rock solid, but that we can all work together to pass them in a bipartisan fashion as quickly as possible,” Ms Ley said.

“The important point is legislative changes are drafted and we’ve hit the start button for change.”

The push to allow medicinal marijuana has gathered momentum this year, with Victoria, NSW and Queensland all conducting trials, and the Federal Greens introducing legislation to legalise the cultivation and growth of the drug for medical purposes.

The Victorian Farmers Federation has expressed its support for a medicinal marijuana industry. Many believe it could have economic benefits similar to Tasmania’s $100 million poppy industry, which contributes to 50 per cent of the world’s opiates.

reference: http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/agribusiness/cropping/australian-medical-cannabis-licensing-scheme-on-the-way/story-fnker6ee-1227631097520

written by NATALIE KOTSIOS