Drug policy think tank the Penington Institute is today unveiling a campaign aimed at prompting Victorians to reflect on where they stand regarding cannabis regulation, in an effort to open up broader public discussion on the topic.
The 'Regulate it?' campaign will appear on billboards, street posters, and digital media channels throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria, directing people to complete 'Take the Cannabis Test' — a five-question online quiz examining various elements of safe cannabis regulation.
The quiz poses questions including "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?" Once completed, participants can see how their responses compare with those of other Victorians and with Penington's own proposed framework for regulating adult cannabis use.
The non-profit's complete model, which places community health and safety at its centre, is due for release early next year. The proposed approach includes tight controls over consumption locations, age restrictions, advertising, packaging, and production, as well as measures to guarantee product safety and compliance. Regulation would also open access to certified, quality-controlled products and create greater opportunities for health education.
Penington's own polling found that 54% of Victorians support regulation, compared with just 28.5% who oppose it, while 17.5% remain undecided.
Separately, 80% of Australians believe that possessing a small amount of cannabis should not be treated as a criminal offence, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare's (AIHW) most recent National Drug Strategy Household Survey.
Cannabis is the second most widely used drug in Australia after alcohol, with 37% of Victorians reporting 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 campaign's first phase gets underway today (December 2), with quiz results to be published in January 2025.
The quiz is available at regulateit.com.au.
