How to Access Medicinal Cannabis in Australia: A Simple Guide

Access Medicinal Cannabis

Medicinal cannabis has been a growing topic of interest in Australia, especially for people living with chronic health conditions. While it’s not as straightforward as picking up a script for paracetamol, it is accessible—if you know the steps.

If you're curious about how to legally access medicinal cannabis in Australia, this guide breaks it down clearly.

Step 1: Understand the Regulation

Medicinal cannabis in Australia is regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The TGA ensures that any medicinal cannabis product prescribed meets safety and quality standards.

At the time of writing, only two medicinal cannabis products are officially approved by the TGA:

• Sativex (nabiximols) – contains both THC and CBD, used to treat spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

• Epidyolex (cannabidiol) – a CBD-only oil used (alongside other epilepsy drugs) to treat severe forms of epilepsy in children aged two and over.

Both of these are listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which means they may be subsidised if prescribed for approved uses.

Other uses for Medicinal Cannabis can be accessed via the Authorised Prescriber Scheme.

Step 2: Speak to a Health Professional

Medicinal cannabis isn't available over the counter, and it’s not something you can just ask for and get on the spot. You'll need to speak with a doctor who is an Authorised Prescriber.

Your doctor will:

• Assess your condition.

• Review your treatment history.

• Consider whether medicinal cannabis is appropriate after trying other therapies.

If they believe it’s suitable, they can prescribe it under the Authorised Prescriber Scheme.

Step 3: Get Your Prescription Filled

Once prescribed, you’ll need to take your script to a pharmacy that is equipped to fill medicinal cannabis prescriptions. This step can vary slightly depending on the product and your doctor’s network, but your prescriber will typically guide you through the process.

Keep in mind: Unapproved cannabis medicines (those not listed on the PBS) can still be legally prescribed under the Authorised Prescriber Scheme—but you’ll need to cover the full cost.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of medicinal cannabis in Australia can range widely. Here’s what you need to know:

• Monthly cost: anywhere between $100 to $1000 depending on the type, dosage, and your medical condition.

• Average cost: approximately $274/month, according to recent reports.

Because unapproved products aren’t subsidised, it’s important to ask your prescriber about pricing before you commit to a treatment plan.

Final Thoughts

Medicinal cannabis is becoming a more accepted option in Australia for managing chronic conditions—but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. The TGA and your healthcare provider play key roles in determining whether it’s suitable for you.

If you're considering it, talk to a Authorised Prescriber who is familiar with prescribing medicinal cannabis. They can walk you through the process, from eligibility to prescription to ongoing management.

As awareness grows and research continues, access is likely to improve—so stay informed and always consult a qualified medical professional.