The Victorian Government is igniting talk of a sustainable hemp industry, opening consultation on ways to make it easier for the state's farmers to grow hemp and seize growing opportunities in the market.
Minister for Agriculture, Ros Spence today launched public consultation on the proposed new legislation, inviting Victorians to share their priorities for the industry, what's working under current laws and ideas for improvement.
"We're looking at ways to grow Victoria's industrial hemp industry, unlock new farming potential and create new jobs in regional Victoria," said Ms Spence. "This proposed legislation will support the use of industrial hemp in more products and create more sustainable options for housing construction materials, packaging and textiles."
Hemp is a fast-growing crop, and fibres and seeds can be used for a wide range of products, including building materials, packaging, biofuels, textiles, seed oils and other food products. Industrial hemp is currently regulated under the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981, which exempts licensed growers from cannabis-related offence when cultivating and processing hemp for non-therapeutic use.
Read more at Inside State Government