MICHAEL BALDERSTONE - NUMBER 2 SENATE CANDIDATE
A former stockbroker turned activist, Michael Balderstone has been at the forefront of Australia's cannabis movement since the 1990s. Well known for his work with the Nimbin HEMP Embassy and the MardiGrass festival, Michael has long championed cannabis legalisation as a means of harm reduction, medicinal access and economic growth. He advocates for micro-licences that empower local growers, creating jobs and utilising the vast knowledge within Australia's cannabis culture.
Michael believes in personal freedoms, government transparency and ending the criminalisation of cannabis users. His campaign focuses on sensible drug policy, social justice and economic opportunities for regional communities through sustainable hemp farming.
"Cannabis isn't legal until you can grow it and buy it freely and drive normally like everyone else. We are not criminals—set us free, bring back respect."
Michael urges voters not to vote for him personally but to look for the leaf above the line and tick that box. "Miles is the man for the job in Canberra—I’m better off in Nimbin. But if Miles wins, I’ll be down there a lot because he’s promised me a job: introducing cannabis to every politician. They don’t have to get stoned; it can be CBD. But let’s get over the stigma—the fear from a century of lies and propaganda. I want to undo that."
