Hemp Senate Inquiry public hearing to take place at Longford

A public hearing for the Senate Inquiry into opportunities for the development of a hemp industry in Australia will be held at Longford on February 25.

The inquiry is looking at the potential for the hemp industry in Australia, along with associated research and regulations.

Tasmanian Hemp Co director Tim Schmidt will be the first person to speak at the public hearing.

“The importance of this inquiry is most significant for Tasmanian agriculture, if only we can initiate a change in federal regulations and support for a national hemp industry,” Mr Schmidt said.

“Our goal is for the government to establish a legislated definition for hemp, being cannabis with less than 1 per cent THC, and have it removed from the national poisons schedule.

“This would allow the states to reform their legislation and allow Tasmanian farmers to take advantage of all nonmedicinal properties this amazing plant has to offer.”

Mr Schmidt said he had been working for five years to establish this inquiry. 

“If we can establish the changes sought at the federal level, it will put Australia in the lead of global reform for industrial hemp and open up lucrative markets that would create a sustainable and profitable hemp industry.

“It will also allow the hemp industry provide important solutions in environmental sustainability, regional employment and revenue for agriculture. 

“Only with community support and clear messaging can we bring about this change for the benefit of all.”

Other organisations speaking at the public hearing include TasFarmers, Hemp Harvests, Midlands Seed Limited Tasmania, X-Hemp, the Tasmanian Hemp Association and the state government.

The final report for the Senate Inquiry is set to be handed down on July 30.