Bringing Clarity to Medicinal Cannabis Patients Behind the Wheel
Dr Brian Walker addresses the current status of medicinal cannabis driving reforms, pushing for evidence-based changes to protect patients who rely on legal medication.
Brian Walker

The struggle of the patient driver
In my years as a GP, I have seen many patients struggle with the weight of archaic laws. They are people who simply want to live pain-free lives, yet they are forced to navigate a legal minefield. When a patient is prescribed medicinal cannabis, they are using a legitimate medicine to treat a legitimate health condition. Yet, because of our current testing regimes, they live in constant fear of losing their licence for having traces of THC in their system, even when they are not impaired.
This is not merely a matter of bureaucratic process. It is a daily anxiety for thousands of Western Australians. Imagine the sinking feeling of knowing that your life-saving medication could lead to a criminal record. This is a waiting room where patients are trapped, not by their illness, but by legislation that has failed to keep pace with modern medicine.
Seeking answers in the House
Today, I sought an update on the progress of the working group focused on THC driving reforms. It is vital that we keep the pressure on our decision-makers. The government has confirmed that the new Minister for Road Safety has received briefings on this issue. While it is encouraging that the topic is being discussed, discussion is not the same as reform. We need action.
If you want to stay updated on my work in the Legislative Council and hear more about my push for evidence-based change, please subscribe to my YouTube channel for regular updates.
Science over status quo
My role is to ensure that the voice of reason is heard. We are a community of forward-thinkers. We look at the evidence, not the politics of fear. The science tells us that the current approach is failing our patients. It is keeping people off the road who are perfectly capable of driving safely, while ignoring the complex reality of impairment. We deserve a system that is fair, rational, and grounded in medical truth.
I will continue to hold the government to account until we see meaningful change for all medicinal cannabis patients in our state. You can read the official record of my question to the Minister for Road Safety to see the details for yourself. If you are ready to help us drive this change forward, I invite you to join Legalise Cannabis WA today. We are stronger together.

Written by
Hon Dr Brian Walker MLC
MB ChB · MRCGP · FRACGP · 45+ years as a GP
Brian Walker is a General Practitioner and Member for Western Australia in the WA Legislative Council. He is the Leader of the Legalise Cannabis Party WA and an advocate for evidence-based cannabis reform, healthcare improvement, and progressive policy in WA.
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