FAQs

Is medical cannabis legal in Australia?

Medical cannabis has been legal in Australia since March 2017. Medical cannabis purchased online is not legal. Medicinal cannabis products can only be legally obtained from a pharmacy with a doctor’s prescription. 

Individual consumers cannot apply to the TGA to obtain access to unapproved medicinal cannabis products. Access can only be arranged through an Australian registered health practitioner. Approval or authorisation is granted on a case-by-case basis. The video below provides an overview of consumer access to medicinal cannabis. Read more at the website of the TGA

How do I access medical cannabis in Australia legally?

Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates the supply of medicinal cannabis. Doctors can apply to the TGA to supply medicinal cannabis to certain patients through the Authorised Prescriber Scheme and the Special Access Scheme. Patients may be able to access medicinal cannabis through a specialist doctor, thier GP, or if they are taking part in a clinical trial.

You cannot apply to the TGA to get medicinal cannabis yourself; only your doctor can apply. The doctor must meet certain requirements, must obtain permits, and must also comply with relevant state laws. However, the laws are different in each state, and this may affect whether you can get access to medicinal cannabis.

Do I have to smoke medical cannabis?

Smoking cannabis is not recommended by health authorities. Current approved forms include oil, capsules, flower (vaporised) and sprays.

What conditions is medical cannabis used for?

Medical cannabis is currently being used to treat a number of different symptoms. Any chronic condition lasting longer than 3 months may be eligible if traditional medications have failed to provide relief. The TGA has provided data on conditions that have been approved in the past. The most common being: Chronic pain, Neuropathic pain, Cancer pain, Anxiety/Depression, PTSD, Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Migraine, Sleep disorders, Epilepsy/Seizure Management, Spasticity from neurological conditions, and Autism symptoms. Speak to your doctor or give us a call to discuss further.

How does medical cannabis work?

Medicinal cannabis has been shown to relieve pain, prevent or reduce vomiting, and it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This is because substances called cannabinoids act on the body’s endocannabinoid system. This is a communications system in the brain and body that influences mood, memory, sleep and appetite. However, you can only access medicinal cannabis products legally through a healthcare practitioner. See the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) website for more information.

How much does a visit to MOCA Health Cannabis Clinics cost?

Initial consultations (including TGA applications) are billed at $79 and follow up consultations are $79.

How much does medical cannabis cost?

Medical cannabis products are not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Products typically cost $4-8 per day but can vary greatly depending on the dosage and type of product prescribed. An initial consultation with our doctors (including all TGA approvals) usually costs $79, we are however always looking at ways to reduce these costs so keep an eye out for our special offers.

Where do I fill my prescription?

Our doctor will write you a cannabis prescription and our team will arrange for the cannabis medication to be delivered to you through our preferred pharmacies. If you wish to use your own pharmacy you will need to ensure they are able to dispense medical cannabis. There is an administration and postage fee of $35 if you would like to use your own pharmacy.

What are the possible side effects of medical cannabis?

Similar to many medications, patients taking medical cannabis may experience side effects. Generally, the side effects for CBD are less than those for THC. Some known side effects of THC include euphoria, intoxication-like effects, dizziness, drowsiness, impaired memory, disorientation, dry mouth, and rapid heartbeat. 


The side effects of medicinal cannabis are still being studied. They may include:

Do you offer Telehealth?

Yes we do. We are currently offering Telehealth consultations at reduced fees, not eligible for Medicare rebate, in order to prioritise the health and safety of all patients and staff.

Can I attend a face to face appointment?

At the moment, we are only offering telehealth appointments. That may change in the future.