On 23 July 2025, the following matter was referred to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee for inquiry and report by 30 July 2026:

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

a. the potential contribution of an industrial hemp industry to;

(i) Australian farming systems, including compatibility with existing agricultural practices, soil health and water usage/conservation,

(ii) Australian manufacturing, including the production of textiles, bio-based plastics, health and food products,

(iii) the circular economy, including biodegradable materials and waste reduction,

(iv) the Australian construction industry, including the use of hemp-based materials and barriers to their adoption, and

(v) Australia’s economy, including, but not limited to, job creation, export opportunities and regional development;

b. research and development required to harness the full potential of the hemp industry;

c. regulations related to hemp production, sale and distribution to domestic and export markets; and

d. any other related matters.

The committee has opened submissions and welcomes contributions.