The Legalise Cannabis South Australia Party has revealed what a regulated cannabis dispensary could look like if the drug is legalised, but medical leaders remain firmly opposed. The party staged a mock retail setup to demonstrate how a licensed store would operate, with entry restricted to customers over 18 who present ID.
This model mirrors systems already in place overseas, according to the party. Legalise Cannabis claims the scheme could generate $1 billion in state revenue over four years if cannabis was sold legally.
“We’re showing exactly how it works in other countries — and the benefits the entire state can achieve,” lead candidate Jessica Nies told 7NEWS. “That money could go back into infrastructure, roads, schools, hospitals.”
The Australian Medical Association acknowledges cannabis has a role in treating certain conditions but says it won’t shift its stance on recreational use. “We want the safe use of cannabis,” Legalise Cannabis campaign manager Jason Meotti said. “The only way that’s going to happen is with strong medical regulation,” AMA SA president Peter Subramaniam added.
The party argues legalisation isn’t something to fear, noting many South Australians already use cannabis and that the state would be better off moving the drug from the streets into a regulated market. Premier Peter Malinauskas dismissed the pitch, saying the government’s focus is on keeping young people healthy and active.
