A movement in Australia has launched a campaign urging medicinal cannabis users to be effectively represented in the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA’s) recently launched related consultation.
On Monday, the TGA released a public consultation paper concerning the use of unapproved medicinal cannabis products in Australia after growing concerns current regulations aren’t fit for purpose. And last month, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) published updated prescribing guidelines after a significant increase in what the Agency said were poor medical cannabis prescribing practices.
The Patients, a group consisting of researchers, healthcare practitioners, industry advocates, and patients has launched a campaign with resources designed for industry leaders to share; encouraging patients and prescribers to engage directly with regulators and policymakers.
The group says the TGA consultation is a “pivotal moment” for the future of medicinal cannabis in Australia.
“Meaningful progress demands honest dialogue between patients, clinicians, and regulators,” said Dr Alistair Frame. “This campaign builds that bridge, so regulators can be confident in the foundations of safe and compassionate access.”
Currently when signing up at The Patients, a letter to share with patient networks and one to send to the local Member of Parliament to advocate for fair and continued access to medicinal cannabis is provided. In the weeks ahead, additional resources and communications will be provided along with a patient survey designed to collect stories and data that will be compiled and submitted to regulators to ensure patient voices are considered.
“This campaign is exactly the kind of brand-neutral collaboration the medicinal cannabis sector needs,” said Medical Education Specialist Kirsten Gassman. “It’s focused on reflecting lived realities back to policymakers, not ignorance or fear. Now is our moment to act together.”
The Patients is also concerned about proposals for adult-use legalisation.
“No jurisdiction worldwide has successfully protected its medical market while opening retail recreational access. We are calling for a creative next step that truly centres patients, no current proposal from any party sufficiently prioritises patient needs.”
While there’s not much information on The Patients website about the movement itself and those behind it, it’s assumed the website will evolve in the weeks ahead.
The TGA consultation is accepting feedback until 5pm on Tuesday 7 October 2025.
