We shalll see.
He writes in this month’s Cannabis Party newsletter
The Month That Was: Paving the Way for Cannabis Reform
From the Office of Jeremy Buckingham MLC
This month has been a landmark period in our ongoing efforts to reform cannabis laws in New South Wales. The interim report from the Cannabis Inquiry, released 31 October 2024, has been met with widespread acclaim and serves as a significant milestone in our journey toward sensible and equitable cannabis regulation.
The interim findings provide a comprehensive analysis of the current regulatory framework and its impacts, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This report has not only validated many of the arguments we have been championing but has also outlined a clear pathway for effective reform. The positive reception underscores the growing consensus, among policymakers, stakeholders and the public, that it’s time for a pragmatic approach to cannabis legislation.
In addition to the Inquiry’s progress, I had the privilege of attending the NSW Drug Summit in Lismore this month. The summit was a pivotal gathering of experts, advocates and community leaders dedicated to advancing drug policy reform. Engaging with fellow attendees reinforced the collective commitment to creating a framework that prioritises public health, safety and economic benefits over outdated prohibitionist policies.
Looking ahead, there is exciting news on the horizon. The Drug Summit co-chairs, Mr John Brogden and Ms Carmel Tebbutt, have expressed keen interest in the Impact of the Regulatory Framework of Cannabis in New South Wales, interim report, and the initiatives we’ve been spearheading in the cannabis space. They have requested a private briefing to delve deeper into our findings and strategies, signalling strong bipartisan support for the work we are doing. This engagement from key political figures bodes well for the future of cannabis reform in NSW and highlights the importance of our continued advocacy.
Social media and community forums have echoed the support reflected in official channels, with thousands of voices advocating for responsible and regulated cannabis use. The call for evidence-based policies, such as the implementation of field sobriety testing over antiquated presence-based methods, continues to gain momentum, further emphasising the need for intelligent and humane drug policies.
The pathway is becoming clearer, and the momentum is unmistakable: New South Wales is on the cusp of meaningful cannabis law reform. With the backing of influential leaders, robust inquiry findings and unwavering public support, we are well-positioned to drive the necessary changes forward.
Let’s keep pushing forward.
Stay connected, stay informed, and most importantly—stay vocal. Together, we can make cannabis legal, safe and fair for all.
Free the Weed!
Jeremy Buckingham MLC
Member of the NSW Legislative Council
Legalise Cannabis Party
