Cannabis licence fees increase 4.4%

Summary#

A notice from the Department of Health says the Cannabis Fees Order fees will rise with inflation. The fees listed for licence screening, security clearances and import/export permits will increase by 4.4%, effective April 1, 2024.

What it does#

• Adjusts the fees set out in sections 3–5 of the Cannabis Fees Order upward by the 2023 Consumer Price Index of 4.4%. The increases take effect on April 1, 2024.
• Specific fee changes (current → adjusted):
  • Screening of a licence application for micro-cultivation: $1,886 → $1,969
  • Screening of a licence application for standard cultivation: $3,767 → $3,933
  • Screening of a licence application for nursery: $1,886 → $1,969
  • Screening of a licence application for micro-processing: $1,886 → $1,969
  • Screening of a licence application for standard processing: $3,767 → $3,933
  • Screening of a licence application for sale for medical purposes: $3,767 → $3,933
  • Application for security clearance: $1,903 → $1,987
  • Application for import or export permit: $703 → $734

Who's affected#

• People and businesses applying for or renewing cannabis licences (micro- and standard cultivation, nursery, processing, and sale for medical purposes).
• Companies or individuals applying for security clearances related to cannabis licensing.
• Importers and exporters of cannabis who apply for permits.
• The notice was issued by the Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch (signed by John Clare), which administers these fees.

Why it matters#

• The change raises the cost of applying for common cannabis-related licences and permits. For some small businesses or new applicants, the extra cost may be noticeable.
• This is a routine, annual inflation adjustment set out in the order — not a change to who can be licensed or to licensing rules.
• The adjustment is automatic and scheduled to take effect on April 1, 2024, so fees paid after that date will reflect the new amounts.