Queensland patients could be given access to medicinal marijuana before the end of the year, under a plan to be put before State Parliament.

Health Minister Cameron Dick said there was growing community support for the idea, and he wanted it legalised.

He said the plan, which will be formally released in coming weeks, would strike a balance between the needs of patients and administering the drug safely.

Earlier this month, the Federal Government introduced legislation to allow for the cultivation of medicinal cannabis in Australia.

New South Wales has already established a medicinal marijuana scheme for patients with a terminal illness.

It requires patients over the age of 18 to register for the scheme, with the support of a medical doctor.

Mr Dick said he wanted Queensland patients to have similar treatment options made available to them.

He said legislation could be passed by Parliament within six months, meaning a scheme could be up and running before the end of the year.