Australia’s largest medicinal cannabis company, Montu, has initiated legal proceedings against The Age, demanding the removal of a story that alleges the company was unlawfully advertising its products. This move underscores the ongoing tensions within the burgeoning medicinal cannabis industry regarding regulation and media reporting.
Legal Action Details
On Monday, Montu filed an application with the Federal Court seeking to compel The Age to take down its investigative story and disclose the confidential sources that contributed to the report. The company asserts that the article was partially based on a restricted document inadvertently released to The Age by the Federal Court.
Montu’s Position
Montu, which markets the Circle brand of cannabis, claims that The Age’s reporting was founded on confidential court documents. In a letter to The Age’s legal team, Montu’s solicitors argued that the document should not have been accessible without judicial approval, categorizing the release as a breach of confidentiality.
The Age’s Response
Patrick Elligett, editor of The Age, has stated that the publication will vigorously defend against Montu’s legal action. “This request appears to be little more than a big company with means attempting to shut down accurate reporting that is unfavourable to their interests,” Elligett remarked. “The Age will always stand up for its readers against attempts to stifle press freedom.”
The Age has formally requested the court to dismiss Montu’s application and to have the company cover the associated legal costs.
Background: The Age’s Investigation
Earlier this month, The Age published an in-depth investigation into Australia’s rapidly expanding medicinal cannabis industry, raising concerns about the adequacy of its regulatory framework. A significant portion of the report focused on Montu, highlighting allegations of unlawful advertising practices.
Previous Legal Challenges
In April, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) filed a Federal Court action against Montu and its cannabis telehealth clinic, Alternaleaf. The TGA accused them of unlawfully advertising cannabis by using terms such as “medical cannabis” and “plant medicine.” Montu has denied many of these allegations, maintaining that it has not violated the Therapeutic Goods Act. In their recent court filing, Montu reiterated their stance, asserting compliance with all relevant laws.
Impact on the Medicinal Cannabis Market
The legal battle between Montu and The Age reflects broader challenges within the medicinal cannabis sector, particularly concerning regulatory compliance and media scrutiny. As the industry continues to grow, companies like Montu must navigate complex legal landscapes while maintaining transparent and lawful marketing practices.
Regulatory Environment
The absence of comprehensive regulations in certain aspects of the medicinal cannabis market has led to heightened scrutiny from both regulatory bodies and the media. Companies operating in this space must ensure strict adherence to existing laws to avoid legal repercussions and maintain public trust.
Media’s Role in Industry Oversight
Investigative journalism plays a crucial role in holding companies accountable, especially in emerging industries like medicinal cannabis. While such reporting can bring transparency, it can also lead to contentious legal disputes, as seen in Montu’s case against The Age.
Future Implications
The outcome of this legal action could have significant implications for both Montu and the broader medicinal cannabis industry in Australia. A ruling in favor of Montu might set precedents regarding media reporting on regulated industries, while a dismissal could reinforce the media’s role in investigative reporting.
For Montu
A successful legal challenge could allow Montu to control the narrative around its advertising practices and protect its reputation. However, it might also draw more attention to the allegations, potentially impacting customer trust and investor confidence.
For The Age and Media Freedom
A court ruling in favor of The Age would affirm the importance of press freedom and the media’s role in scrutinizing industry practices. Conversely, a ruling favoring Montu could set restrictive precedents for future investigative journalism efforts.
Montu’s decision to take legal action against The Age highlights the delicate balance between industry regulation and media oversight in the medicinal cannabis sector. As the industry evolves, it will be crucial for companies to maintain transparent and compliant practices while the media continues to play a watchdog role to ensure accountability and protect public interests.

Jane Smith is a seasoned article writer specializing in cannabis-related content. With a keen focus on the latest trends, research, and developments in the cannabis industry, she brings a fresh perspective to her writing. Jane’s insightful articles delve into the medicinal benefits, legalization efforts, and evolving culture surrounding cannabis. Her engaging storytelling and informative approach make her a trusted source for readers seeking accurate and up-to-date information on all things cannabis.