How do you get a medical cannabis prescription in Australia?

If you’re looking into medical cannabis in Australia, you’re probably after clear answers, not confusing legal jargon. The good news is that access is possible, but the process does need to be followed carefully.

In Australia, medical cannabis has been legal under strict regulation since 2016. That means it is available for some patients when a qualified practitioner believes it may be appropriate for their symptoms or condition. It is not something you can buy off the shelf, and it is not a first option for everyone. Still, for some people, it can be part of a broader, patient-centred treatment plan.

At Horizon Health, patients can speak with online practitioners, making it easier to explore whether medical cannabis may be suitable without the stress of travelling to a clinic.

What is medical cannabis, and is it legal in Australia?

Medical cannabis refers to cannabis-based medicines prescribed by an authorised healthcare professional for specific medical reasons. In Australia, it is legal when prescribed through the proper pathways and supplied in accordance with national rules.

These medicines are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). In many cases, products are accessed through the Special Access Scheme (SAS) or through an authorised prescriber pathway.

That legal framework is designed to protect patients. It helps make sure treatment decisions are made carefully, with proper medical oversight, follow-up, and attention to safety.

Who can be prescribed medical cannabis in Australia?

Not everyone will be eligible for medical cannabis. A practitioner needs to assess your medical history, current symptoms, past treatments, and whether this option is clinically appropriate for you.

Some of the more commonly discussed conditions include:

• chronic pain
• epilepsy
• multiple sclerosis
• chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
• some sleep, anxiety, or symptom-management concerns, where clinically appropriate

A prescription is not based on patient preference alone. Your practitioner will usually want to know what treatments you have already tried, how well they worked, and whether they caused unwanted side effects.

How do you get a medical cannabis prescription step by step?

1. How do you find a doctor who can assess medical cannabis?

The first step is booking an appointment with a practitioner who understands medical cannabis and the Australian prescribing process.

Not every GP is experienced in this area. That is why many patients choose a dedicated telehealth service. Horizon Health’s online practitioners can assess your situation, explain the process in simple language, and guide you through the next steps if treatment may be appropriate.

2. What happens during the medical assessment?

Your practitioner will ask about:

• your current condition and symptoms
• your medical history
• medicines and treatments you’ve already tried
• possible risks, side effects, and contraindications
• whether medical cannabis fits into your broader care plan

This is an important part of safe prescribing. It is also your chance to ask questions and talk openly about your concerns, goals, and day-to-day challenges.

3. Does the TGA need to approve medical cannabis?

In many cases, yes. If your practitioner decides medical cannabis may be appropriate, they may apply through the Special Access Scheme (SAS) on your behalf.

This application explains why the treatment is being considered and why it may help in your case. Approval is not automatic, but an experienced practitioner can manage the paperwork and help you understand what to expect.

4. Where do you get medical cannabis after approval?

If approved, your prescription is then supplied through an authorised pharmacy. Depending on the product, it may come as:

• oils
• capsules
• oral liquids or sprays
• other approved forms

Your practitioner will recommend the most suitable format based on your condition, your treatment goals, and safety considerations.

Why is follow-up care important?

Medical cannabis treatment should always include follow-up. Your practitioner may review:

• symptom changes
• side effects
• dose adjustments
• how the treatment fits with your other care

At Horizon Health, this can often be done by telehealth, which makes ongoing support more convenient for busy adults across Australia.

How much does medical cannabis cost in Australia?

Cost is one of the biggest questions patients ask. Medical cannabis is generally not covered by the PBS, so most patients pay out of pocket. You can read more about the PBS on Healthdirect Australia.

The total cost can vary depending on:

• the type of product
• your dosage
• how often you need follow-up appointments
• dispensing pharmacy costs

For many people, affordability matters just as much as access. That is one reason telehealth can be helpful. It can reduce travel time and make regular care easier to manage from home.

Is medical cannabis the same as recreational cannabis?

No. Medical cannabis and recreational cannabis are not the same thing.

When prescribed legally in Australia, medical cannabis is used under medical supervision for symptom management or treatment support. Products are selected with care, and dosing is guided by a practitioner.

It is also important to understand that not all cannabis-based medicines affect people in the same way. Some contain THC, some contain CBD, and some contain a combination of both. The effects, risks, and legal considerations can differ from one product to another.

Can medical cannabis make you feel high?

Some products that contain THC may have psychoactive effects, but not every medical cannabis product will make a person feel “high”. It depends on the formulation, the dose, and how your body responds.

This is one of the reasons medical supervision matters. A qualified practitioner can explain potential effects, help reduce risks, and decide whether a THC-containing product is appropriate in the first place.

Can you drive after using medical cannabis in Australia?

Driving is a major issue to discuss before starting medical cannabis treatment, especially if your product contains THC.

Road laws vary by state and territory, and in some places you may test positive on roadside drug screening even when you are using a legally prescribed product. That means patients need personalised medical advice and a clear understanding of the legal risks before driving.

This is not something to guess about. It should always be part of the discussion with your practitioner.

Is medical cannabis right for your symptoms?

That depends on your health history, your symptoms, the treatments you have already tried, and whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

For some Australians, medical cannabis may be worth discussing when symptoms are ongoing and other options have not provided enough relief. For others, a different treatment approach may be more suitable.

A thoughtful assessment matters. So does having a practitioner who listens, explains things clearly, and takes a holistic view of your wellbeing.

At Horizon Health, patients can access online care that is designed to feel supportive, practical, and personal. If you are exploring your options, speaking with a telehealth practitioner can be a simple first step.

Why do Australians choose telehealth for medical cannabis consultations?

Many patients want healthcare that fits around work, family life, and energy levels. Telehealth can make that easier.

Some of the benefits include:

• convenient access from home
• less travel and waiting time
• private, one-on-one consultations
• ongoing follow-up care that feels more manageable
• support from practitioners who understand holistic, patient-centred care

For people living with persistent symptoms, convenience can make a real difference to continuity of care.

Ready to speak with a practitioner?

If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms and want to understand whether medical cannabis may be appropriate for your care, Horizon Health offers warm, convenient telehealth support across Australia.

You can speak with an online practitioner from the comfort of your lounge room, ask questions, and get personalised advice about your next step. If you’re ready, book a telehealth consultation and explore your options with care that puts you first. 

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral to get medical cannabis in Australia?

Not always. Some clinics, including telehealth services, may not require a referral unless the practitioner requests one.

Can any doctor prescribe medical cannabis?

Not every doctor does. A practitioner needs to be willing and appropriately informed about the prescribing pathway. Some patients choose dedicated clinics because the process is more familiar and streamlined.

How long does it take to get approved for medical cannabis?

It varies. Timing depends on your clinical assessment, the application pathway, and pharmacy processes. Your practitioner can give you a clearer idea based on your situation.

What conditions might qualify for medical cannabis?

It depends on your case. Chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-related nausea are among the better-known examples, but eligibility always depends on clinical judgement.

Is medical cannabis covered by Medicare or the PBS?

Generally, products are not covered by the PBS. Consultation costs and rebates can vary, so it is worth checking clinic fees and eligibility details directly.

Can I buy medical cannabis at any pharmacy?

No. It is usually supplied through authorised pharmacies after your prescription and any required approvals are in place.