The petition of the undersigned shows:

International UN drug treaties state that narcotics are necessary for the relief of pain and suffering and that "adequate provision” must be made available to relieve pain and suffering.

Cannabis is a safe, legal and effective “narcotic” yet countless Australians are unable to access it because of the prohibitive cost of products and the onerous regulatory system put in place by the Federal Government.

“Adequate provision” is not being made for the estimated 1 million patients being forced into illegal and self supply methods, leaving them open to prosecution for cannabis “crimes” under state drug laws in order to relieve their suffering.

For many thousands of Australians disabled by their condition(s), who are unemployable and suffer financial hardship, the products are well beyond their means. Therefore the current delivery system discriminates against socially disadvantaged people with disabilities.

Approvals do not equal actual patient numbers. Some patients report they cannot afford to have prescriptions filled while others say they wont be able to afford ongoing treatment.

We are told that price will drop as the market expands but while demand remains low because of cost, it will be a very long time before we see prices drop; or any of these products registered with the TGA and eligible for PBS subsidy. 

Your petitioners ask that the Senate:

Take the necessary steps to initiate an Independent Inquiry by the Australian Advisory Council on the Medicinal Use of Cannabis (AACMC) to review the current delivery system with the view creating a fairer, more affordable delivery model in consultation with the end users.