Summary

AgriFutures Australia has identified industrial hemp as an emerging industry with the potential to exceed $10 million annual gross value of production by 2025. AgriFutures Australia considers variety performance testing and agronomy trials as a high-priority investment for the industry and intends to provide seed funding for a national hemp cultivar trial scheme.
The project will deliver a report and business plan detailing the proposed national hemp cultivar trial system including technical and legal framework parameters, cost options, and financial support both in-kind and cash for consideration by AgriFutures Australia.

Program

New and Emerging Industries

Research Organisation

Stilts Pty Ltd trading as Rounding Up

Objective Summary

The project aims to build a commercially centred and sustainable business plan for the Australian Hemp industry incorporating:
1. an industry-sponsored National Cultivar Trial Scheme (NCTS) that strengthens product knowledge, grower management practices, delivers a fit-for-purpose commercial variety suite and enhances industry profitability
2. ongoing co-sponsorship and funding from government and private investors to actualise the business plan
3. a pathway to a national regulatory framework that facilitates the industry’s ambitions.