The Miscellaneous Provisions (Alcohol, Cannabis, Dangerous Drugs, Gambling and Tobacco) Bill, 2026 has been approved in the Senate following a division vote, with 15 senators voting in favour, 12 against, and three abstaining.
Among its key provisions, the legislation raises the legal age for the purchase and use of alcohol and tobacco from 18 to 21 years, while the minimum legal age for cannabis and gambling is increased to 25 years.
The Bill also includes amendments allowing persons aged 18 to 20 to handle, sell or supply alcohol and tobacco as part of lawful employment, notwithstanding the higher age restrictions.
Implementation and enforcement measures are expected to be phased in, with the broader rollout of the legislation being tracked toward 2027.