Drug Free Australia has rejected outright, Dr Alex Wodak’s proposal to allow cannabis to be sold in Post Offices throughout Australia.

DFA Chair, Craig Thompson said today: “At a time when the most reputable evidence points to the increased harms of cannabis, it seems highly irresponsible from a person in Dr Wodak’s position to make such a statement.

His facts are also highly questionable. For example, he claims that the idea has worked in Amsterdam, but this is not the case. In fact, the distribution outlets (coffee shops) are closing down at a rapid rate.
 
Drug Free Australia’s Executive Officer, Jo Baxter said: “Of even more importance is the fact that Dr Wodak's message has dangerous health consequences. The AMA (The Australian Medical Association) has issued warnings on the health risks associated with smoking marijuana. Risks of cannabis use include memory loss, psychosis, impaired driving, hallucinations, asthma, and even lung cancer. Moreover, warns the AMA, one third to one half of detained patients admitted to psychiatric units in Australia are there because marijuana use has precipitated a relapse.
 
“Thankfully, according to a 2007 report by NDARC, the majority of Australians are now more street-wise about the increased potency of present day cannabis. Most know that it has links to serious mental health issues. Most know that we already have soaring public health costs in coping with the legal drugs (tobacco and alcohol). Most are aware that we are in damage control over binge drinking rates - mostly because of greater accessibility and acceptability of alcohol over the last 30 years. If the good doctor could provide his evidence-base to show that open distribution of cannabis would actually decrease use, reduce psychosis and related violence, he may have a credible voice. However, right now he has only dug himself further into disrepute”.