The national senate inquiry series of hearings on Opportunities For A Hemp Industry in Australia, has kicked off in Longford, Tasmanian on Wednesday 25 March, with little more publicity than that afforded to the local kid’s athletics carnival. It seems that industry advocacy groups need to be far more engaging with the community if we are to make any ground in this industry.
At a subsequent Tasmanian ABC country hour interview with Senator Colebeck, the following observations were made:
- It is clear regulatory changes can be made to facilitate the utilisation of the whole plant.
- There’s a need for continued research development.
- Development of an industry plan post farm gate should be considered.
- Hemp as a replacement for fibre boards is a possibility.
It’s good to see the committee is learning about the real issues and opportunities for the Australian hemp industry, however the industry needs to support their efforts in bringing this to light at a senior government level.
The transcripts to the Tasmanian hearing will be available in time through the website, see the link below:
You can also view the public submissions online through the link above.
Generally, but not always, the key messages from the Tasmanian submissions:
- The committee to recommend that parliament legislate a definition of hemp and have it removed from the national poisons schedule to encourage whole of plant use
- Provide more research support for industry development
- Develop and support an industry plan post farmgate.
There are two more hearings to be set, one in Canberra and another in Melbourne. The dates are yet to be determined. It’s important that those who have an interest in change in this industry make an effort to attend one of these hearings.
At the moment this inquiry into the Australian hemp industry is the nation’s best kept secret. If you would like to support this industry, then start with sharing the message. We need to be heard.
Article written by Tim Schmidt | Tassie Hemp Shop
