The Victorian Labor government has moved to allow severely epileptic children to be treated with medicinal cannabis from 2017, so long as the federal government agrees.

A new industry will be established to ensure a consistent and high-quality supply, from licensed farmers who will grow marijuana plants for the regulated manufacturers.

The Victorian Law Reform Commission has made 42 recommendations about law changes to enable it to happen at the state government's request.

Mr Ferguson said it was a complex issue that required compassionate and science based approach.

"We're focused on research and Tasmania is supporting the research led by New South Wales," he said.

"We're interested in the science, we're interested in having better treatments for Tasmanians who require them, but always based on the best evidence and not rushing and cutting corners on something that could in fact cause harm to Tasmanians if not done correctly," he said.

Labor justice spokeswoman Lara Giddings said Tasmania was being left behind on the issue.

"Other jurisdictions are showing far more compassion than the government here, who have failed to respond adequately to the issue of medicinal cannabis," Ms Giddings said.