Australia (legalization in 2017)

In 2017, Australia made the legal recreational use of cannabis possible in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), including Canberra. This change allowed adults to possess and grow limited amounts of cannabis for personal use, regulated under local laws. However, cannabis remains illegal in most other parts of Australia, and federal law continues to prohibit its use. The legislation in the ACT was intended to reduce criminal activity and promote safer consumption, but illegal possession and use are still penalized elsewhere. This regional legalization represents a cautious step toward drug policy reform, balancing personal freedom with public health and safety concerns.