The ACT has become the fist jurisdiction in Australia to legalise the possession, use and cultivation of small amounts of cannabis. The laws that were passed in the ACT Legislative Assembly today, allow for possession of up to 50 grams per person and a maximum of four plants per household.
South Australia was the first state to decriminalise minor cannabis offences in 1987. Residents found with up to 100 grams of marijuana, 20 grams of hash (resin), one non-hydroponic plant or cannabis smoking equipment are fined $50 to $150 and given 60 days to pay.
In 2013 drug laws in Greece were reformed so individuals found to be consuming or possessing cannabis for personal use are subject to a prison sentence not exceeding five months. Greek law does not differentiate between cannabis and other illegal drugs in the punishments levied. These laws are harsh by European standards, but prior to 2013, the situation was even more dire.
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However, Greece has a long history of cannabis production, and prior to the prohibition era, also produced quality hashish that was exported throughout Europe. Some pockets of cannabis cultivation still remain.
In 1987, an important piece of drug legislation was passed, which brought the country in line with the international treaties (Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961; Convention on Psychotropic Substances, 1971) and furthermore made a distinction between addicts and non-addicts, arguing that the former should be treated more leniently and afforded treatment over punishment. However, punishments for casual, non-addicted users were draconian, with maximum sentences of up to five years’ imprisonment even for small amounts.
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