The Legalise Cannabis Party has overhauled its leadership structure as the organisation expands its reach well beyond its origins in Nimbin to operate as a genuinely national political force.
At the party's AGM held over the weekend, Western Australian MP Dr Brian Walker was appointed vice president, Craig Ellis took on the role of party secretary, and Gail Hester and Anna Negri were elected as registered officers.
Michael Balderstone continues in the role of president, while Suzette Luyken stays on as treasurer.
Members also passed a vote to become an incorporated association and ratified a new party constitution.
Balderstone acknowledged that his tenure as president will not go on indefinitely, but said he was "really happy to see us spread way beyond Nimbin".
He added: "Four states are represented [on the new executive] and the Legalise Cannabis seed has finally sprouted and appears to be growing vigorously from all accounts.
"If we were a little excited by the federal result in May, we're over the moon with what just happened in Victoria. Currently it's predicted we will win three seats in the Upper House and, with the Greens, form a block of power that Premier Dan Andrews might just have to listen to.
"A final decision on numbers is still a week away, but it's looking good. Legalise Cannabis got the fourth most votes after Labor, the Liberals, and the Greens. What you have to do to get taken seriously."
"Eventually, we expect a full apology from the politicians and police for the phenomenal damage their fruitless war on cannabis has caused, and is still causing… It's time for a ceasefire."
