ACT, the first jurisdiction to legalise cannabis for personal use

New legislation allowing growing and smoking cannabis for personal use comes into effect today in the Australian Capital Territory. But there's a "but" involved. It contradicts federal laws.

ACT legalises personal use of cannabis. Source: Getty Images/Ben Bloom

ACT has officially become the first Australian jurisdiction to legalise cannabis for personal use. 

The legislation, coming into effect today, Friday 31 January, allows adult territory residents to be in possession of up to 50 grams of dried cannabis per person and grow no more than two plants or four per household.

However, the legislation contradicts federal laws, under which possession or cultivation of cannabis is prosecuted as criminal offence. 

Read the full report in English here.