Australia

Major cannabis reforms in the Australian Capital Territory have taken effect, despite opposition from the federal government and a United Nations warning that the reforms violate international drug treaties.

Benjamin Jesse is the founder of the Australian Cannabis Industry Awards, an event that celebrates Australia’s cannabis industry and highlights successful leaders in the space.

Creso Pharma Ltd (ASX: CPH) has established itself as an early mover within the medicinal cannabis sector, as the global cannabis market is expected to reach US$272 billion within the decade.

UN officials have sent a letter warning Australia’s federal government that the cannabis legalization language recently adopted in the Australian Capital Territory breaches at least three international drug conventions signed by the nation.

Recent cannabis reforms legalizing possession and home cultivation in the Australia Capital Territory will have “no effect” because it does not address differences in federal law, says Australian Attorney-General Christian Porter.

Australia’s federal government is investing AU$3 million into researching the potential pain and side effect management options for cancer patients.

In light of the Australian Capital Territory’s recent legalization reforms, the country’s Health Minister confirmed that federal officials have “no plans” to fight the new legislation.

Lawmakers in the Australian Capital Territory have passed legislation legalizing adult-use cannabis and home cultivation; the new rules do not, however, approve any form of cannabis distribution, including sales and gifts.

A team of Australian researchers says CBD could have potent antibiotic properties after lab tests showed the cannabinoid was killing bacteria, including those that are highly resistant to existing antibiotics.

Australian researchers are seeking 300 participants for a years-long trial investigating the effectiveness of CBD as a treatment for veterans suffering from PTSD.