Australian Senate’s Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee is accepting public comments until September 12th, 2025, for hemp opportunities and development

The Australian Senate’s Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee is accepting public comments until September 12th, 2025, for opportunities and development in the following areas:

Farming systems, including compatibility with existing agricultural practices, soil health and water usage/conservation
Manufacturing, including the production of textiles, bio-based plastics, health and food products
The circular economy, including biodegradable materials and waste reduction
The construction industry, including the use of hemp-based materials and barriers to their adoption
Job creation
Exports and regional development
Research
Regulations
Any other related matters

The announcement of the public comment period was welcomed by the Australian Hemp Council.

“At the Hemp Connect Forum, Richard Colbeck opened and proudly announced that a Senate Inquiry into the development of an industrial hemp industry in Australia had been formally launched, which signaled a pivotal step forward for our sector.” the Australian Hemp Council stated in a social media post.

“This is our chance to present a united, evidence-based case to government. Whether you’re a grower, processor, researcher, or product innovator your input matters.” the Council also wrote. “Together, let’s demonstrate that industrial hemp isn’t just an emerging industry, it’s a national opportunity ready to deliver.”

Source: https://internationalcbc.com/australia-welcomes-submissions-for-industrial-hemp-industry-development/?utm_source=ICBC+Combined+List+Newsletter+and+Outreach&utm_campaign=c30a55439a-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_06_26_02_04_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-2f1e7828bf-23509830

Opportunities for the development of a hemp industry in Australia

Committee: Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee
Date referred: 23 July 2025
Submissions close: 12 September 2025
Reporting date: 30 July 2026

The committee has opened submissions and welcomes contributions.

Terms of Reference

The opportunities for the development of a hemp industry in Australia, with particular reference to:

the potential contribution of an industrial hemp industry to;
1. Australian farming systems, including compatibility with existing agricultural practices, soil health and water usage/conservation,
2. Australian manufacturing, including the production of textiles, bio-based plastics, health and food products,
3. the circular economy, including biodegradable materials and waste reduction,
4. the Australian construction industry, including the use of hemp-based materials and barriers to their adoption, and
5. Australia’s economy, including, but not limited to, job creation, export opportunities and regional development;
research and development required to harness the full potential of the hemp industry;
regulations related to hemp production, sale and distribution to domestic and export markets; and
any other related matters.