COMPASS
Our Compassionate Access Scheme
About Compass
The MCCA COMPASS program is a compassionate access scheme designed to improve affordability and access to medicinal cannabis for patients in Australia experiencing financial hardship.
Many medicinal cannabis products are not listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and are therefore not subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). As a result, some patients who may benefit from treatment are unable to afford it.
In partnership with Cannabis Warehouse, supported by pharmacy and clinical partners, and with significant support from Medical Cannabis Australia (MCA), the COMPASS program provides a sustainable, not-for-profit pathway to access treatment. The program operates under a robust national governance framework, with clear clinical and administrative protocols to ensure safe, ethical and coordinated patient care.
Through a tiered pricing model, patients are assessed based on their financial circumstances, enabling access to treatment at a cost proportionate to their ability to pay.
How to access COMPASS
Access to the COMPASS program is managed through a patient’s prescribing healthcare professional.
To be considered for the program:
- A patient must be legally prescribed medicinal cannabis by an authorised prescriber
- The prescriber must submit an application on the patient’s behalf
- The patient must complete a financial hardship assessment, which determines their eligibility and assigned pricing tier
All applications are reviewed by the COMPASS clinical review team to ensure appropriate prescribing rationale and a safe, ongoing care plan.
Once approved:
- The patient’s eligibility and tier are confirmed
- Any prescriber requirements are verified
- An authorised pharmacy partner dispenses the prescribed product
The COMPASS program reflects MCCA’s ongoing commitment to equitable access to medicinal cannabis, continuing the vision championed by patient advocate Lucy Haslam.
Participating Brands
Cannaseur
Cannabiz Awards Winner 2025 for Best Patient-Focused Initiative – COMPASS
