Why our state is lagging on fair medicinal cannabis driving laws

The heavy cost of hesitation

In my decades of medical practice, I have learned that evidence must dictate policy. When we force patients to choose between their prescribed medication and their ability to drive to work or see their families, we are not prioritising safety. We are prioritising outdated bureaucracy. This situation creates a terrifying reality for many Western Australians who live in constant fear that a random roadside test will strip them of their licence, despite being perfectly capable and unimpaired drivers.

A tale of two states

While other jurisdictions like Queensland and New South Wales are actively reviewing their laws to ensure that presence does not equate to impairment, our government remains firmly stuck in neutral. I recently brought this matter before the Legislative Council to highlight the widening gap. It is difficult to watch as other states show the courage to align their laws with clinical reality while we remain trapped in a cycle of working groups and endless reports. The anxiety this causes for patients is palpable. They are left in a legal grey area that threatens their livelihoods and their independence.

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The slow road to progress

It is genuinely disheartening to see such inertia. When I asked whether our Premier had consulted with other states that are already leading the way, the response was silence. There was no correspondence. There was no urgency. We are left with the cold comfort of a working group that continues to ponder while citizens suffer. The government’s approach is a classic example of inertia masquerading as caution. It is neither safe nor sensible for us to be left behind while our colleagues across the country recognise the need for change.

We need a system that treats drivers with respect and recognises the reality of modern medicine. You can review the full details of my recent questions during the sitting of the House. We will keep pushing for these common-sense changes, and I invite you to stand with us by joining Legalise Cannabis WA as we continue the fight for fair and evidence-based policy for all.