Drug policy think tank the Penington Institute is launching a campaign today encouraging Victorians to consider their stance on cannabis regulation in a bid to kickstart a conversation around the issue.
The ‘Regulate it?’ campaign, rolling out on billboards, street posters, and digital media platforms across Melbourne and regional Victoria, will invite people to ‘Take the Cannabis Test’, a five-question online quiz about different aspects of safe cannabis regulation.
Featuring questions such as “Do you think people under the age of 18 should be able to buy cannabis?” and “Do you think advertising should be allowed for cannabis retailers or products?”, results from the quiz will let the community know how their views align with other Victorians and with Penington’s proposed approach to safe cannabis regulation for adult use.
The non-profit’s full model, which prioritises community health and safety, will be released early next year. Its proposed regulatory approach includes strict controls on where people can use cannabis, age of access, advertising, packaging and production, along with measures to ensure product safety and compliance. Regulation would also provide access to certified quality controlled products and increased health education opportunities.
Polls undertaken by Penington have found that a majority (54%) of Victorians favour regulation, while only 28.5% oppose it, and 17.5% are undecided.
Meanwhile, 80% of Australians think possessing a small amount of cannabis shouldn’t be a criminal offence according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW) latest National Drug Strategy Household Survey.
Cannabis is the second most popular drug in Australia after alcohol, with 37% of Victorians admitting to having tried it, according to the AIHW.
“Safe cannabis regulation for adult use creates the opportunity to take control of an existing, unregulated market,” Penington said.
“By taking the quiz and learning more about Penington Institute’s approach to regulation, the public can play an active role in shaping the future of cannabis regulation in Victoria.”
CEO John Ryan said: “We’re launching this campaign because we know there is already strong community support for cannabis regulation. We want to encourage people to talk about this issue and to show just how a regulated model can make our communities safer and better protected.”
“Our regulated framework for adult-use cannabis prioritises community health and safety over criminalisation. It’s time to rein in the uncontrolled, dangerous black market that exists, and keep young people safe and away from drug dealers.”
“Regulation would also reduce the burden on our strained justice system and allow us to redirect those valuable resources to concentrate on serious crime.”
Former AFP Commissioner Mick Palmer added: “The criminalisation of cannabis use and possession is discriminatory, significantly damaging, and serves no real purpose.
“While drug use is not to be encouraged, there are far better ways to address harmful behaviour than through criminal penalties. Early intervention and safe, considered regulation are key.”
The first wave of the campaign starts today (December 2), with quiz results shared in January 2025.
To take the quiz, visit regulateit.com.au.
