Benefits of medicinal marijuana are many

OCTOBER 19, 2015: A MOVE by the Liberal National Coalition Government to allow for the cultivation of medicinal cannabis is a compassionate and sensible one.It's a cause I have personally been championing for some time, and I welcome the potential for job creation in the region.There is plenty of evidence to support the use of medicinal marijuana. It’s a natural product which can provide very effective relief for those suffering from a range of debilitating illnesses.Our region also has a lot to gain through the introduction of a new crop that could boost our economy.We have good fertile soil and plenty of water so another crop option would help farmers diversify and develop a stronger business base.It is important to distinguish between medicinal marijuana and recreational marijuana.This is not about legalising “pot” or “weed” because the active ingredient in recreational marijuana (THC) exists only at very low levels in medicinal cannabis. This is about establishing a carefully managed supply of medicinal cannabis products from farm to pharmacy.As Health Minister Sussan Ley has outlined, the cultivation of medicinal marijuana would be strictly controlled.The Government is finalising draft amendments to the Narcotics Drugs Act 1967 to allow for the production of a safe, legal and sustainable Australian supply of medicinal marijuana.Any new medicinal cannabis products will be regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration in the same way other medical drugs and devices are.