Cannabis Laws by State: Is Weed Legal in Australia?
Cannabis law in Australia is a patchwork of federal therapeutic-goods regulation and separate state and territory criminal law. The medicinal pathway (prescription, via a registered doctor) is available nationwide. Below is a snapshot of how each state and territory treats cannabis outside that pathway. Always confirm current detail with your state health department — this page is a general guide, not legal advice.
New South Wales
Medicinal access via authorised prescriber; personal possession without a prescription remains an offence.
Victoria
Medicinal access via authorised prescriber; unauthorised possession/supply remains an offence.
Queensland
Medicinal access via authorised prescriber; unauthorised possession/supply remains an offence.
Western Australia
Medicinal access via authorised prescriber; unauthorised possession/supply remains an offence.
South Australia
Medicinal access via authorised prescriber; SA also has a simple expiation scheme for small personal possession, which is not the same as legal purchase.
Australian Capital Territory
Medicinal access via authorised prescriber. The ACT additionally allows adults to possess/grow small personal amounts, but sale and online purchase of non-prescribed cannabis remain illegal.
Tasmania
Medicinal access via authorised prescriber; unauthorised possession/supply remains an offence.
Northern Territory
Medicinal access via authorised prescriber; unauthorised possession/supply remains an offence.