VICDOC Autumn 2025 - Magazine - Page 52
CANNABIS REGULATION
IMMUNISATION ADVOCACY
AMAV recently provided a submission
to the Inquiry into the Regulation
of Personal Adult Use of Cannabis
Bill 2023, cautioning against full
legalisation of cannabis due to the
health risks associated with its use.
Instead, AMAV advocated for a harmreduction approach, supporting
decriminalisation - removing criminal
penalties while maintaining strong
public health protections. Separately,
AMAV was among 18 stakeholders
consulted on an interim proposal for
law reform regarding medicinal cannabis
and driving, and the Government is now
reviewing these recommendations.
AMAV continues to push for improved
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vaccine access and uptake across
Victoria. Recent advocacy successes
include securing free RSV immunisation
for Victorian babies from 2025, a
crucial step in reducing hospitalisations
and protecting vulnerable infants.
AMAV also successfully lobbied for
the removal of National Immunisation
Program influenza vaccine ordering
limits, addressing supply frustrations in
many GP practices. In late 2024, AMAV
met with the Victorian Department of
Health’s Immunisation Program team
to discuss immunisation priorities,
including the 2025 RSV immunisation
rollout, the evaluation of the 2024
influenza vaccination program, updates
on the Mpox and Japanese encephalitis
vaccination programs, and the scope of
practice for immunisers in Victoria.
AMAV remains committed to advocating for
policies that strengthen Victoria’s healthcare
system. We will continue to push for practical
reforms that support both doctors and patients.
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AMA VI C TO RIA
