No Change to Cannabis Laws in Victoria
The Victorian Government has formally rejected recommendations to decriminalise personal cannabis use, following the Inquiry into the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Amendment (Regulation of Personal Adult Use of Cannabis) Bill 2023.
The bill was reviewed by the Legislative Council Legal and Social Issues Committee, which tabled its Final Report on 18th March 2025. The government had until 18th September 2025 to respond.
Despite the committee’s recommendation to consider the ACT’s decriminalisation model, the Victorian Government declined to support the bill, as confirmed through parliamentary debate and ministerial statements.
This decision was publicly acknowledged in a press release issued on 15th October 2025 by the Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA), which expressed disappointment and concern over continued law enforcement resource allocation.
What Does This Mean for Enforcement and Workplace Safety?
Victoria is not yet ready to follow the ACT’s lead in decriminalisation. For workplace safety, this decision reinforces the importance of maintaining robust drug and alcohol testing programs, clear policies and procedures, and ongoing education.
Navigating a legal landscape where cannabis remains illegal – and detectable in workplace testing – requires clarity and confidence. With the support of industry leaders, your organisation can ensure compliance, protect safety, and reduce risk.
Reach out to us if you’d like to discuss how we can support your team with testing, training, and policy development.