$3 million for research

The Australian Government is investing $3 million from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) to examine the benefits of medicinal cannabis for pain, symptom and side effect management for cancer patients. The Hon Greg Hunt MP,  Minister for Health.

The Morrison Government is investing $3 million from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) to examine the benefits of medicinal cannabis for pain, symptom and side effect management for cancer patients.

Since her own battle, Ms Olivia Newton-John has been an advocate for breast cancer awareness and research and through her personal experience and ongoing efforts has helped shine a light on the benefits associated with medicinal cannabis.

“There have only been a limited number of well-designed clinical studies on medicinal cannabis, and we need to increase the evidence base to support medical professionals to make their decisions,” said Mr. Hunt.

The announcement was made at the Olivia Newton-John Wellness Walk And Research Run. Ms. Newton-John has been a very vocal advocate for medical cannabis and has used it for some years to manage her own condition.

Last year, Ms. Newton-John said she had a dream medical cannabis will be available to all Australian cancer patients and to patients suffering any kind of disease that causes pain.

“What an inspiration Olivia is!” stated Mr. Hunt on Facebook. “It was a privilege to join her in Melbourne today, to announce $3 million for clinical trials for medicinal cannabis, to help patients with cancer fight symptoms and pain.”

An open and contestable grant opportunity will fund research, that will provide further evidence into an area of increasing interest in Australia and globally. Read More