Vic moves to legalise medicinal cannabis

The Victorian Law Reform Commission has been asked to review the changes needed to allow the use of medicinal cannabis.

The Victorian government said on Friday it had started the process to legalise the controversial therapeutic, which is already in use by many families.

"Parents shouldn't have to choose between breaking the law and watching their children suffer," Premier Daniel Andrews said.

"Children are in pain, families are suffering, people are living in fear and outdated laws are getting in the way.

"The Victorian Law Reform Commission will provide advice on the best way to regulate the substance so it is safe for all."

Labor would not legalise marijuana for recreational use, Mr Andrews said.

Victorian families of children with terminal illnesses or life-threatening neurological diseases have turned to cannabis oils, and say it can reduce seizures and improve quality of life.

The commission will report to the government by the end of August 2015.