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:

1. 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;
2. research and development required to harness the full potential of the hemp industry;
3. regulations related to hemp production, sale and distribution to domestic and export markets; and
4. any other related matters.