The 6-month grandfathering arrangements for DVA-funded medicinal cannabis prescriptions ended on 31 August 2026. This follows on from the update to DVA’s Medicinal Cannabis Framework (the Framework) in February 2026.
The temporary grandfathering arrangements provided time for Veteran Card holders who received DVA-funded medicinal cannabis prescriptions between 16 February 2025 and 15 February 2026 to transition to the updated Framework requirements.
The end of the grandfathering arrangements does not mean DVA has stopped funding medicinal cannabis. DVA continues to fund medicinal cannabis for eligible Veteran Card holders whose prescriptions meet the Framework requirements.
What providers need to know
From 1 September 2026, all DVA-funded medicinal cannabis prescriptions must comply with the Framework. DVA’s application forms have also been updated to assist with ensuring your prescription meets the Framework. Medicinal cannabis must be prescribed by a medical practitioner with specialist registration through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra).
An in-person consultation is required where a patient:
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is commencing medicinal cannabis treatment for the first time
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is changing to a new prescribing doctor, or
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is increasing treatment from a Tier 1 to a Tier 2 prescription.
DVA will fund a maximum of 3 medicinal cannabis products at any one time.
Product-specific limits apply. For example, DVA will only fund dried herb medicinal cannabis products with a THC concentration of 25% or less. Providers should review prescribing arrangements to ensure all DVA-funded medicinal cannabis prescriptions comply with the Framework requirements.
Mental health conditions and PTSD
DVA does not fund medicinal cannabis for mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The end of the grandfathering arrangements does not change this position.
Supporting safe and appropriate prescribing
The Framework was updated to reflect changes to the evidence base, regulatory status and clinical best practice. To support best practice prescribing, DVA commissioned the University of New South Wales to develop an Evidence Report and Clinical Guidance for the use of medicinal cannabinoids in the management of chronic non-cancer pain in veterans.
Supporting coordinated care
General Practitioners (GPs) play an important role in coordinating healthcare for veterans. DVA encourages communication between prescribing practitioners and a veteran’s regular GP to support continuity of care, reduce the risk of medicine interactions, and help ensure treatment remains aligned with the veteran’s overall healthcare needs.
More information
For information about DVA-funded medicinal cannabis, including eligibility requirements and prescribing arrangements, visit the Medicinal Cannabis webpage and review the Medicinal Cannabis Frequently Asked Questions.
If you require further information, please contact DVA through the provider enquiry channels.