2026 marks ten years since medicinal cannabis was legalised in Australia. To reflect on how far the industry has come, and where it’s headed next, we’re speaking with the people helping shape it. From early advocates, to scientific leaders working behind the scenes, this series captures the journeys, lessons, and hopes defining the first, and the next, decade of medicinal cannabis.
About Rachel Payne
Victorian MP Rachel Payne is not your usual politician. Raised in a working-class community in Newcastle, she comes from humble beginnings. She left home at sixteen and has firsthand experience with welfare, government, housing, and legal services. She earned a master’s in public policy, and had a rich and varied life before politics. She held administrative, leadership and policy roles at Centrelink, the Eros Association, and the Family Court of Australia, and toured the world as an acclaimed burlesque performer. Motivated by social justice and community wellbeing, Rachel joined the Legalise Cannabis Party to reform outdated cannabis laws and unlock Victoria’s economic, environmental, and taxation opportunities.
The Australian medicinal cannabis community is ten years young. How did you first find your way into this space?
I am in my 40’s and have been a cannabis consumer most of my adult life to help manage my pelvic pain and anxiety.
I say “pelvic pain” because “period pain” really doesn’t cover the burden of conditions like endometriosis and similar. Pelvic pain is debilitating for me and many other women, and at times leads to days off work and significant life impacts.
In managing anxiety, it is interesting that we accept “wine o’clock”, but downplay cannabis for slowing down busy minds and stressed bodies. I consider this use medicinal too.
What is the most meaningful lesson you’ve learnt about the cannabis plant?
She is such a beautiful, gentle plant! She’s been used for millennia by wise women. She’s versatile; a medicine, social relaxant, building material, fabric (and more), and she’s low-impact on both the earth and humans. There is a reason so many cultures have had “peace pipes.”
I have learned to really respect her.
What three words capture your hopes for cannabis in Australia over the next ten years?
Common Sense and Reform
To learn more about Rachel’s work, you can visit her website, or follow her on Facebook, X, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
The views, opinions, and statements expressed in this article are solely those of the individual contributor and do not represent, and should not be attributed to, Astrid. Astrid makes no claims. Contributors are not our patients – their experiences are shared with the sole intent to inform their inspiration behind driving change in the sector through their advocacy, research, or policy contributions.
