The future of hemp in New South Wales (NSW) is under review as the government releases the draft NSW Hemp Industry Development Plan for public input. This initiative encourages local farmers to participate in shaping the future of the hemp sector.
Michael Balderstone, President of the Legalise Cannabis Australia Party and a key figure at the Nimbin HEMP Embassy, urges Northern Rivers hemp farmers to provide feedback on the draft plan. He emphasizes that Australia has fallen behind countries that continued to grow and harvest hemp while the nation was caught up in the stigma surrounding cannabis cultivation. Balderstone advocates for substantial investment and support to revitalize the industry and catch up with international standards.
The draft plan outlines a vision to establish hemp as a mainstream crop in NSW, focusing on practical applications and market opportunities. The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development highlights four development objectives aimed at aligning government actions with industry needs. These objectives will guide collaborative efforts among stakeholders to grow the local hemp industry.
Hemp has historically thrived in the Northern Rivers region, which boasts ideal climatic conditions for cultivation. Balderstone points out the potential for innovative uses of hemp, including hemp-based housing, known for its excellent fire-resistant qualities. Currently, most hemp building materials used in Australia are imported, along with a significant portion of medical cannabis. This reliance on imports highlights the untapped opportunities within Australia to produce and process hemp locally.
The draft plan aims to gather input from industry players, with feedback being accepted through the Have Your Say website until May 19, 2025. This period of public consultation is seen as a crucial step in mobilizing the local hemp industry and addressing barriers to growth.
In summary, the NSW government’s draft Hemp Industry Development Plan represents a strategic effort to revitalize and expand the hemp sector in the state, with significant involvement from local farmers and stakeholders. As the global hemp market continues to grow, NSW is poised to explore the benefits of this versatile crop, which could lead to economic opportunities and sustainability efforts across the region.
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