COMMITTEES

Senator COLBECK (Tasmania) (19:04): I move: That the following matter be referred to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee for inquiry and report by 30 July 2026: The opportunities for the development of a hemp industry in Australia, with particular reference to: (a) the potential contribution of an industrial hemp industry to: (i) Australian farming systems, including compatibility with existing agricultural practices, soil health and water usage/conservation, (ii) Australian manufacturing, including the production of textiles, bio-based plastics, health and food products, (iii) the circular economy, including biodegradable materials and waste reduction, (iv) the Australian construction industry, including the use of hemp-based materials and barriers to their adoption, and (v) Australia's economy, including, but not limited to, job creation, export opportunities and regional development; (b) research and development required to harness the full potential of the hemp industry; (c) regulations related to hemp production, sale and distribution to domestic and export markets; and (d) any other related matters.

Question agreed to.