On 23 July 2025, the Australian Senate’s Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee launched an inquiry into the opportunities for the development of a hemp industry in Australia. This is a pivotal moment, not just for farmers and manufacturers, but for everyone invested in a sustainable, innovative future.
Update! submissions due: 12 September 2025
The scope of the inquiry is broad and ambitious. It recognises that industrial hemp has the potential to contribute to:
- Australian farming systems – Hemp’s compatibility with existing agricultural practices, potential to improve soil health, and efficient water usage make it an attractive crop for diverse regions.
- Manufacturing and innovation – From textiles and bio-based plastics to health products and food, hemp offers a renewable source for high-value goods.
- The circular economy – Hemp products are biodegradable, can reduce waste, and play a role in closing material loops.
- Construction – Hemp-based materials like hempcrete and hemp insulation can cut carbon emissions, improve building performance, and create healthier living environments. Yet, barriers to their adoption remain.
- The broader economy – Job creation, export growth, and regional development are all within reach if the sector is nurtured.
The inquiry will also examine research and development needs, regulatory barriers, and other matters crucial to unlocking hemp’s full potential.
Why this matters now
For years, Australia’s hemp sector has operated under a patchwork of regulations and limited investment. This inquiry offers a rare, structured opportunity to present evidence, highlight barriers, and shape policy. It is a chance for industry participants, advocates, and community members to ensure decision-makers understand the crop’s economic, environmental, and social value.
How you can be involved
The committee is accepting submissions until 12 September 2025. Whether you’re a grower, builder, manufacturer, researcher, or simply someone who sees hemp as part of Australia’s sustainable future, your perspective matters. Submissions can include data, case studies, or even personal experience.
This is our moment to move hemp from the margins into the mainstream of Australian agriculture, industry, and innovation.
Disclaimer
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