VICTORIA URGED TO SOFTEN CANNABIS USE LAWS

A new study has urged the Victorian government to soften
cannabis-using laws along the lines of other states and territories,
based on cautions and fines but no criminal record.

The National Drug Research Institute at Curtin University in Perth
also recommended that multiple offenders should be fined but have no
criminal record, and that first-time offenders be cautioned.

The institute carried out a six month study for a Victorian
parliamentary committee, resulting in a plan drawing on laws in the
South Australia, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital
Territory.

It also incorporated a current cautioning system in Victoria and
Western Australia.

Institute researcher Simon Lenton said under the proposal, possession
of cannabis by an adult would remain illegal but possession of up to
50 grams of cannabis and three plants would receive an initial caution.

Later offences could result in a fine of up to $150 but no criminal
convictions, with a smaller fine for lesser amounts.

Offenders would have the choice of paying a fine within 28 days or
attending a cannabis education session, he said.

Mr Lenton said although the proposal was for Victoria, it could be
used elsewhere in Australia.