Growing Hemp With Rob Eccles – Australian Hemp Council

He specialises in the technical resolution and delivery of architectural and industrial design, with a portfolio that includes delivery leadership roles on major infrastructure projects across Australia and New Zealand. He seeks to integrate sustainable materials and intelligent assembly methods to create efficient, user-focused solutions. With a passion for design innovation and practical delivery, Christian is particularly excited by the technological advancements emerging in the field of plant-based materials.

The AHC and it’s Member Organisations

The AHC was established in August 2020 as an Incorporated Association registered in South Australia.

The AHC was conceived to comprise seven member associations representing the hemp industry in each state and the NT. Each member association appoints a Councillor to join the AHC.

The seven Councillors constitute the Management Committee of the AHC Association and have full control over the affairs of the AHC.

The AHC also has provision for Affiliate Membership without voting rights.

The AHC may establish subcommittees and other working groups to assist in the pursuit of its objectives.

While the AHC seeks to present a unified voice to government and national agencies, the state member associations remain fully autonomous and the AHC does not exercise any control over its members’ internal affairs.

Dr. Nana Bortsie-Aryee is a sustainability and strategy expert specializing in Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and International Material Flow Management. As Program Director at Global GreenTag International, he leads product certification programs focused on environmental and social sustainability within the built environment.

He earned two Master’s degrees in Germany and Japan and a PhD from the University of Otago. With extensive experience in sustainability across Africa, the US, Europe, Asia, and New Zealand, he champions material use transparency within green buildings, greenhouse gas emissions and water footprint disclosure, renewable energy, clean technologies, and sustainable resource management, driving impactful solutions for global environmental challenges.

Vlad is a commercial strategist with over 30 years of experience scaling innovation-led organisations across technology, energy, health, and circular economy.

He has held executive and advisory roles in deep-tech ventures, smart cities initiatives, and sustainability programs, with a focus on commercialising solutions that deliver measurable impact.

Vlad is the Co-Founder and Commercial Director of Sebstainable, where he leads integrated decarbonisation programs by aligning industry, government, and research partners. He has supported high-impact project development across Australia through investment readiness, grant strategy, and innovation stacking.

Scott Barnes is a scientist, early adopter and convert to electric vehicles and well insulated comfortable homes. Scott trained as an Agricultural Scientist and has worked in Australia, Canada and Sweden in agriculture, animal production, and material science.

He is now as Technical Research Manager for RACE for 2030 CRC.

Leigh Fletcher has developed sound knowledge and understanding of hemp processing, products and market dynamics during the development of Murray Industrial Hemp and its hemp precinct project.

Leigh has also built strong relationships with industry partners, investors, growers and local stakeholders, enhancing their ability to execute complex projects.

Alf Wheeler is the Founder and CEO of Zeo Sustainable Materials, a company revolutionising green manufacturing by transforming waste cellulose—such as hemp and recycled paper—into premium, petrochemical-free products.

With decades of experience in design, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship, Alf leads the development of Zeoform Micro Pulp™, a natural, high-performance material used in sustainable construction, furniture, and interiors. Passionate about circular design and climate-positive innovation,

Alf is a vocal advocate for regenerative materials and localised manufacturing. His mission: to prove that beautifully crafted, biodegradable products can compete at the highest level—without compromise.

Jailene Santana is Forest Futures Specialist at WWF-Australia. As Forest Futures Specialist, Jailene works to advocate for sustainable timber production through an expansion of FSC-certified plantations, increased engineered-wood-product manufacturing facilities and timber-alternatives around Australia.

Jailene has a background in Sustainable Development Economics and Policy, specialising in just and equitable industry transitions for regional communities amidst the polycrisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and resulting global economic trends.

Dr Rachel Goldlust is a qualified town planner, sustainability researcher and founder of Natural Building Australia, an online portal seeking to grow and connect trades, research and experience for building with natural materials across Australia.

Following years of research, running workshops and consulting, Rachel enjoys sharing her passion for sustainable design and education to better the relationship our homes have with the broader environment.

Dr Massoud Sofi is a Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Infrastructure Engineering (The University of Melbourne) and the Chief Investigator (CI) of several CRC Projects (Australian Federal Government funded projects). Massoud is a structural engineer by qualification.

His research interests include sustainable construction materials, upcycling of industrial by-products, fit-for-purpose concrete mix selection and technology, in-situ health diagnostics and monitoring of civil infrastructure. Massoud is the co-editor of Electronic Journal of Structural Engineering (eJSE ) and a fellow of Engineers Australia

Dr Massoud Sofi is a Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Infrastructure Engineering (The University of Melbourne) and the Chief Investigator (CI) of several CRC Projects (Australian Federal Government funded projects). Massoud is a structural engineer by qualification.

His research interests include sustainable construction materials, upcycling of industrial by-products, fit-for-purpose concrete mix selection and technology, in-situ health diagnostics and monitoring of civil infrastructure. Massoud is the co-editor of Electronic Journal of Structural Engineering (eJSE ) and a fellow of Engineers Australia

I am part of Standards Australia’s Engagement team, working with stakeholders across both the manufacturing and agricultural sectors. I have almost 5 years of experience in standardization after graduating the University of Technology in Sydney with a Bachelor of Management.

I have worked at both Australia and the UK’s national standards bodies, whilst also engaging closely with the global and European standards organisations, on dozens of standards across multiple sectors. I have worked closely with the Australian Hemp Council on developing standards in the Hempcrete Composite Construction space and am passionate about the opportunity to work with emerging industries in the manufacturing and agricultural sectors.

David is Professor of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the La Trobe Business School and co-lead of the ‘Food Business, Food Security and Digital Agriculture’ research domain at LISAF. He is also an Honorary Senior Fellow at the University of Queensland’s School of Economics.

With more than 20 years of international experience, David has led numerous research initiatives and collaborated extensively with industry, government, and community stakeholders. He has produced over 60 research articles and reports, including multiple studies published in the Australian Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics.

Ernesto Valenzuela is a Senior Lecturer in Agricultural Economics at La Trobe University, Australia. He holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University (USA) and an MSC in Agribusiness from Southern Illinois University (USA). He has authored over 90 scholarly publications in agricultural economics, socio-economics indexes, climate change, and regional economics.

Beyond academia, Ernesto has advised governments and international agencies through consultancy and commissioned work, including projects for the World Bank, United Nations, CSIRO, AgriFutures, Regional Development Victoria, and Rio Tinto.

His recent research includes the 2024 report Hemp in Gippsland: Potential Multi-Industry Development (prepared for CSIRO and Regional Development Victoria), exploring hemp’s role in regional diversification. In 2025, he co-authored a report for the Warner Research Institute on the economic viability of hempcrete as a low-emissions, affordable material for modular housing.

At Southern Hemp, we specialise in creating sustainable, comfortable, and energy-efficient homes with hempcrete.

With over a decade of experience, we’re trusted across Victoria and beyond for our expertise, quality craftsmanship, and commitment to a greener future.

Hemp Inside is an Australian-owned company pioneering sustainable practices and regional manufacturing with industrial hemp.

Through circular design and whole-plant utilisation, we transform locally grown hemp into high-value building materials, textiles and seed-based wellness products. We’re building a resilient, low-carbon supply chain right here in Australia.

For more than 20 years, Across International has been manufacturing industry-grade laboratory supplies, providing reliable tools to various universities, research facilities, and laboratories in Australia. As an ISO-certified laboratory equipment supplier, we have consistently delivered cutting-edge equipment designed to meet our clients’ requirements.

The Warner Research Institute is a certified Not-for-Profit Research Organisation registered with the Australian Government as a Deductible Gift Recipient. Our core purpose is to foster and promote scientific research that helps create a sustainable, equitable world.

Nature is calling for us to step up on a global scale. After extensive deep listening, consultation and planning, our ambition is bold, but the need to speed up and scale-up beyond our own backyard has never been more urgent.

With this in mind, WWF-Australia has set our new three year strategic plan for FY2024-26 towards our goal to Regenerate Nature by 2030.

Klara Marosszeky is the Founder/ Managing Director of Australian Hemp Masonry, Australia’s lead organisation in hemp building materials research.

AHM manufactures in Sydney and supplies BCA compliant Australian hemp building materials for new residential and commercial builds and retrofits. 2 recent commercial projects have won national and international architectural awards.

As a qualified educator, Klara delivers training to Owner Builders and Builders and works closely with Architects and Building Designers, as well as hemp processors. She has been involved in hemp cropping since 1999 and building materials research since 2000 and is actively involved in the AU NZ Standards Working Groups.

Shishir Chowkse is Head of Finance at Birchal, Australia’s leading equity crowdfunding platform. With a CPA background, he has partnered with global venture capital firms and guided high-growth companies through multiple funding rounds.

As a founding team member of several unicorn startups, Shishir combines deep operational expertise with strategic vision to scale businesses across Australia, India and North America. His strengths include financial modelling, investor relations and capital markets strategy.

Known for his analytical rigour and collaborative leadership, Shishir is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and supporting the next generation of game-changing ventures.

Harrison Marsh is a sustainable builder and systems thinker passionate about transforming the construction industry. He co-founded Otetto together with Chris Ball after experimenting with hemp on a custom build and recognising its untapped potential.

Harrison focuses on product development, material performance and business strategy. With a background in design-led building and practical onsite experience, he champions smart systems that reduce waste, accelerate builds, and raise the bar on housing quality and comfort.

Chris Ball is a builder and construction consultant with over 20 years’ experience across custom homes, project management, and sustainable innovation. After years of hands-on building, he co-founded Otetto together with Harrison Marsh to solve the inefficiencies of hempcrete installation by combining it with prefabricated SIPs.

Chris brings deep insight into project delivery, client-side integration, and performance-led design. His goal: to make sustainable building faster, smarter, and financially viable for everyone.

A/Prof Monika Doblin is a plant bio(tech)logist with over 20 years of research experience in investigating the structure and function of cell surfaces and their constituent molecules (polysaccharides, glycoproteins and cognate enzymes). She uses multidisciplinary approaches to answer questions about how cell surface polymers and compounds are made, assembled & remodelled to suit plant function, and to tailor them for end-use applications.

Her research spans fundamental science to applied industry projects, the latter focused on utilising scientific knowledge to make renewable resources more productive for human use. Current projects include those aimed at understanding how soluble dietary fibre is made in cereals and enhancing the productivity of medicinal and horticultural plant species.

Mark Gilder – Head of Development, Urban Planning & Technology – Ciircl

Mark Gilder is an architect, urban strategist and industrial designer with over two decades of international experience in the design and delivery of complex, award-winning projects across sectors including infrastructure, housing, transport, and urban development.
In 2024, Mark co-founded Cortese Gilder, a progressive practice that integrates architecture, urban design, and planning with a focus on modular housing and sustainable transport. The practice is committed to delivering socially responsive and environmentally responsible outcomes at all scales.

As part of this practice, Mark co-leads Ciircl, a transformative initiative that reimagines how low-carbon urban assets can be leveraged to generate both financial and social value. Ciircl is accelerating Australia’s transition to a circular carbon economy by enabling housing at scale that is equitable, affordable, and climate-positive.

Ciircl has developed an innovative suite of modular housing systems supported by a scalable, high-efficiency supply chain designed for mass delivery across Australia. These systems prioritise disassembly, reuse, and rapid on-site assembly, using prefabricated, flat-packed components. The construction palette incorporates a wide range of biogenic materials, dramatically reducing embodied carbon and positioning Ciircl at the forefront of sustainable housing innovation.

Winton Evers is a carbon accounting and sustainability strategy expert with over 16 years of experience. Winton holds a Master of Science, major in Climate Change and many other qualifications.

Founder of Eco Profit Management Pty Ltd, he integrates financial systems with ESG reporting, climate governance, and emissions reduction. A registered Climate Active consultant, Winton works with major organisations whilst leading training for Carbon Training International.

He designs capacity-building programs that deliver measurable carbon and financial outcomes across the corporate, government, university and community sectors. He develops tools to address specific information requirements in carbon accounting including his Hemp Data Platform.

Matthew Lariba-Taing is a strategic business leader and technical innovator with over a decade of experience spanning infrastructure systems, industrial automation, and emerging agricultural markets.

As co-founder and Director of Hemp Inside, he applies deep industry knowledge to commercialize sustainable hemp-based products across Australia. He also serves as President of the Australian Hemp Council, guiding national governance and policy reform.

With a background in Building Management Systems for a leading OEM (Johnson Controls) and advanced IoT development in agtech, Matthew’s career bridges technology, stakeholder management, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. He is committed to scalable, circular economy solutions that deliver measurable environmental and commercial outcomes.

Dr Ricarda Jost is a senior research fellow in the ARC Research Hub for Protected Cropping (PC Hub) at La Trobe University, and scientific advisor of the recently established La Trobe University node of the NCRIS-funded Australian Plant Phenomics Network. Her background is in plant molecular physiology and plant nutrition, as well as optimizing plant performance in protected cropping environments – in particular medicinal plant cultivation.

Her research has been diverse and impactful, ranging from identifying key regulators of nutrient signalling in model species and the role of phospholipids in early drought response of cereal roots to understanding phosphate toxicity in Australian Proteaceae. This has led her to investigate how manipulation of underlying response networks may enhance crop productivity, nutritional quality and sustainability of food production.

Throughout her career, she has benefitted from working together with internationally renowned experts at the Leibnitz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) in Germany, as well as at the Australian National University, the University of Western Australia and La Trobe University. She recently edited a special issue on medicinal plants in the Journal of Experimental Botany. Her work has been cited extensively, reflecting her profound contributions to the field.

For over 25 years Phil has overseen the investment of AU$22m+ into R&D for the development the entire hemp value chain, paddock to product. Phil set-up commercial hemp businesses in Australia, Europe and the USA.

After retiring from an active role in that industry, Phil set up the Warner Research Institute, a not-for-profit, ACNC, DGR entity that funds research that optimise the ongoing use, and continual reuse of our material resources in disposable and non-disposable consumer goods and eliminate waste of both materials and their embodied energy without further degradation to the natural environment.

Mark Bytheway has more than 35 years capital markets experience, including work in investment banking, corporate advisory, credit risk, analysis funds management, and most recently, in sustainable finance.

In 2000, Mark founded the Sustainable Investment Research Institute, (SIRIS), Australia’s first, dedicated, independent, specialist sustainable, responsible and impact investment research group, providing research and analysis to local, regional and global financiers, investors, asset owners and research groups. He currently provides research and advisory services to several asset managers, companies and family offices regarding ESG, and sustainable and impact investments.

Mark holds directorships in Rescope Wealth, US-based ESG AI and analytics group, KPX LLC, social and media impact investment platform, Qvests. He was a founding member of the UNEP Australasian SRI Advisory Committee and a former Trustee of the OXFAM CAA Ethical Investment Trust and degrees in law and economics and a Master of Environmental Science.

He maintains a strong interest in working with sustainable industries and entities and those seeking to transition to lower impacts, through with providing research, analysis and financing advice and support.

Bob Doyle was a dairy farmer for over 20 years before becoming involved with the hemp industry and growing his first hemp crop for Ecofibre in 2010. With Dungog Hemp he went on to build a decorticator which was able to produce hurd for over 150 houses. This left him with a lot of baste fibre for which there was no ready market in Australia. However in 2022 he was able to sell a container of fibre to China which is becoming an increasingly significant opportunity for Australian hemp fibre.

Bob has been involved in all aspects of the hemp production chain which includes a more recent development to secure and store seed through the Hunter Valley Hemp Seed and Grain company.

As part of Doyle Rural Services Bob also manages agricultural properties for clients, including coal mines.

Richard is looking forward to being the MC at the Hemp Connect forum in June 2025.

And to bring forward the connections and highlight the products being made from hemp fiber, particularly in the building industry.

Richard has been involved in the hemp industry since 1997, via Hemptastic NZ limited and more recently Hemp Seed Foods Ltd.

For the last 5 years Richard has been the Chair of the NZHIA and has been the treasurer since 1998.

During this time there have been some amazing developments in the industrial hemp world and Richard is proud to be part of the industry and promoting them at the three iHemp Summits in Aotearoa/NZ since 2018.

Recently the NZHIA and others have been working with the Government and are excited about the opportunity to review the NZ regulations to allow full plant utilisation.

Barriers to hemp masonry use in public and commercial construction

The built environment is responsible for 39% of global energy related carbon emissions. The World Green Building Council vision is that by 2030 all new building have at least 40% less embodied carbon. Hemp masonry construction – carbon sequestering, locally produced and highly insulative – offers clients and built environment practitioners a path to this vision, with significant other benefits for building occupants and biodiversity.

Although hemp masonry is becoming an increasingly popular construction system for off-grid and / or sustainable residential construction, the rigorous and risk averse methods for procurement and delivery of public buildings presents significant challenges to broad adoption of hemp masonry.

The presentation will provide an overview of lessons learned in the design, approvals and construction of Class 9b (public) hemp masonry buildings in Victoria (Mildura and Meeniyan).

Anna is a registered Architect and co-founder of Footscray-based architectural consultancy Public Realm Lab.

She is an advocate, researcher and adviser on the ways in which the built environment can foster inclusivity, creativity and sustainability by putting human experience at the centre of strategic and design thinking. Anna has over a decade of major project experience spanning masterplanning, strategic facilities planning, architectural design and delivery for local councils, state government departments, not-for-profit organisations and tertiary institutions. Anna was the lead Architect for Powerhouse Place – the revitalisation of the Powerhouse on the Mighty Murray in Mildura which was awarded the Victorian Architecture Medal in 2024. Powerhouse Place delivered the first 3 public hemp masonry buildings in Australia.

She is the recipient of the Dulux Study Tour and Marten Bequest Scholarship.

Anna is also a non-Executive Director of Footscray Community Arts – an internationally recognised organisation that advocates for all communities to be valued as makers of culture.

Alastair Flynn is a Woods Bagot associate principal with extensive experience in large-scale public buildings, managing complex stakeholder groups across multidisciplinary project teams.

Alastair is the project architect on the University of Tasmania redevelopment project, leading the design and adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed Forestry building for the University of Tasmania.

UTAS Forestry: Sustainability in Practice

Hobart’s historic Forestry building is undergoing a restoration, set to become a new, inner-city hub for learning, research, collaboration and community. Woods Bagot are the architects restoring and redeveloping the site as the centrepiece of the University of Tasmania’s city campus transformation.

UTAS is the leading university in the world for climate action, and as such, the project needed to be underpinned by the highest environmental responsibility standards, targeting 40 percent less embodied carbon than comparable buildings and retaining more than 60 percent of the existing structure. Through adaptive reuse and a comprehensively circular strategy, the project uses material recovery where possible, eliminating carbon-intensive materials, and introducing only sustainable materials. Once completed, the UTAS forestry building will be the largest example of a commercial use of hempcrete in Australia.

Woods Bagot Associate Principal and project leader Alastair Flynn will be discussing the role of hempcrete – a highly sustainable, carbon-negative construction material – and its extensive application in the campus regeneration. Flynn will take audiences through the design, prototyping, fire testing processes involved in unlocking hempcrete for commercial application in Australia, and share how the material is contributing to a vibrant, sustainable, accessible and highly connected campus for the residents of Hobart.

Step 1.
Go to website: Quest Bundoora – Guest Reservations

Step 2.
Enter in Promo Code: HEMPCONF25 (case sensitive)

Step 3.
Select your dates
Select your room type
Proceed with reservation

Step 1.
Go to website: : Quest Preston – Guest Reservations

Step 2.
Enter in Promo Code: HEMPCONF25 (case sensitive)

Step 3.
Select your dates
Select your room type
Proceed with reservation

Hemp Member

Hemp Member sponsorship is designed for AHC Member Associations to have a presence and brand visibility and showcase their services or products at the Forum.

BENEFITS

Exhibition Table: A table in the lobby of the AgriBio Building to showcase your products or services throughout the event.
Complimentary registration for one person to the Forum including the Welcome Gathering and Presentation Dinner. (Value $705)

Branding

Mention on the official Forum website and program.
Opportunity to include a brochure or giveaway item in the Forum’s tote bag

Networking

Access to networking events to connect with industry professionals and influencers.

Member Sponsor

Hemp Silver

Hemp Gold

Hemp Silver

Provides valuable exposure and access to the Hemp-Connect Forum audience.

BENEFITS

Exhibition Table: A table in the lobby of the AgriBio Building to showcase your products or services throughout the event.
Recognition in opening and closing remarks acknowledging your sponsorship.
Complimentary registrations for two people to the Forum including the Welcome Gathering and the Presentation Dinner (valued at $1,410).

Branding

Your company logo displayed on the main event screens during breaks.
Logo on select digital and print materials, including the program and website.
Opportunity to include a brochure or giveaway item in the Forum’s tote bag.

Networking

Exclusive access to key delegates and speakers at networking events.

We are grateful to the La Trobe Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and Food for providing us with the venue for this event.

We have received significant support in our preparatory meetings which we would like to acknowledge.

Jeremy Thomas hosts the website Environmentarian. Its purpose is described as: Helping businesses grow responsibly with strategic planning and carbon neutral web hosting.

In addition Jeremy co-founded the Hemp Building Directory together with Kirstie Wolff. It offers a key resource for connecting individuals and businesses to hemp construction expertise and innovation in Australia.

Jeremy will be sharing his range of skills to make video recordings of our forum events as well as interviews with key stakeholders.

The AIHC was conceived and designed by its founder, Robert Bell, to both add value and to assist in the future expansion of the industrial hemp industry and its community.

Click on the link to find out more.

Questions and answers for the APVMA

Q 1. Why does APVMA have hemp seed approved on it’s ‘Other Crops’ index with it’s own CODEX#, alongside avocado and rape seeds, yet the APVMA are not allowing hemp seed-derived products for animal consumption?

The Crop Group listing for Oilseed (available at https://www.apvma.gov.au/taxonomy/term/7396 includes hemp seeds as part of the ‘other oilseeds’ group. Crop grouping for the purposes of pesticide evaluation is used primarily in assessment of efficacy/residues/crop safety related to the consumption of such produce by humans and is not specifically relevant to the evaluation of veterinary products. Please note that any approved list for human safety assessments is not applicable to animals.

Q 2. What prompted the APVMA to ban low THC hemp seed for sale to companion animals?

In publishing the Agency’s position on the regulation of veterinary chemical products containing Cannabis, the APVMA has clarified that veterinary products containing cannabis (including hemp) or cannabinoids are veterinary chemical products (veterinary medicines). Veterinary chemicals that are supplied and sold in Australia must meet the requirements of Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994 (Agvet Code Act) and Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Regulations 1995 (Agvet Code Regulations). As the Australian Government regulator of veterinary chemical products, the APVMA regulates agricultural and veterinary chemicals to manage the risks of pests and diseases for the Australian community and to protect Australia’s trade and the health and safety of people, animals, and the environment. Informing the public about the registration requirements of chemical products is part of our responsibilities as a regulator.

Q 3. The industry agrees that extracts from the cannabis flower and leaf meet the definition of veterinary chemical products. The industry does not believe hemp seed and its derivatives meet the definition of a veterinary chemical product if no therapeutic or production claims are being made. Based on this, the industry would like hemp seed and its derivatives to be reclassified as Animal Feed Products based on the following from the APVMA’s website:

Animal feed materials and ingredients generally do not require registration by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) if they meet the following requirements:

They are fed as part of the normal diet of an animal.
They are intended solely for nutritional purposes and are only represented as being suitable and used to help maintain natural or normal health, production, or performance.
They do not contain medications or other active constituents. –
They do not make any health, production or performance claims.

All feeds that contain medications or other active constituents require registration unless exempted by the Agvet code Regulations. All hemp supplements/additives are considered veterinary chemical products because they contain cannabinoids (some from inadequate cleaning) and omega fatty acids, both of which have known therapeutic effects. Some hemp supplements/additives may be exempted from registration if they satisfy the requirements of Excluded Nutritional and Digestive (END) products. Questions have been raised about omega fatty acids in other plant/vegetable seeds, these are exempted from registration if the oil is included in the GRAS lists for Excluded Nutritional and Digestive ingredients or other exemptions listed in the Agvet code regulations.

Q 4. A number businesses are currently selling hemp products to animals. These businesses have been following state regulations that clearly state that denatured hemp seed can be fed to animals. APVMAs new policy has put all of these businesses at risk. Please provide a pathway for these businesses to continue operating within the new regulations until GRAS status is applied.

We are not aware of any state regulations that allow veterinary chemicals to be administered to animals without registration by the APVMA. There is a difference between feed used for nutritional purposes and supplements/additives. States and territories are responsible for feed which is used for nutritional purposes only. The APVMA regulates medicated feed.
APVMA has a Pre-Application Assistance (PAA) pathway where companies can submit an application to determine the data requirements to get their products registered or to determine if a product requires registration.

Q 5. In obtaining GRAS status, can we use toxicology data from humans to demonstrate safety for animals? Animal data is used for humans so we would expect the reverse would be true.

NO, we expect target animal safety data. Physiology between humans and animals is different. The APVMA encourages companies to seek PAA advice if they would like more detailed technical information, including specific study requirements to satisfy the APVMA that the product will be safe for target animals.

Q 6. FSANZ is confident in the safety of hemp seed for humans. Can this information be used to satisfy the following APVMA requirements for GRAS?

would not be an undue hazard to the safety of people exposed to it during its handling or people using anything containing its residues; and
would not be likely to have an effect that is harmful to human beings; and
would not be likely to have an unintended effect that is harmful to animals, plants or things or to the environment; and
would not unduly prejudice trade or commerce between Australia and places outside Australia.

The satisfaction can be gained in data generated in target animals as stated above.

Q 7. Will APVMA accept data from internationally peer reviewed scientific papers?

Yes. The APVMA relies on scientific information generated anywhere in the world unless if there is an environmental or a specific Australian use that is different from other countries – that is when there is a requirement for Australian data. Target animal safety data generated overseas may therefore be able to support target animal safety in Australia.

Q 8. Will APVMA consider GRAS lists other than the ones outlined in their current policies?

No, the APVMA implements what is currently in the legislation. Responsibility for legislative policy and reform resides with the AgVet Policy Branch within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). If industry believes there are other GRAS lists that should be included in the Regulations, they are encouraged to contact the Agvet policy team at DAFF.

Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Bronze Sponsor

[give_form id=”13834″]

Bronze Sponsor
• AHC Social media post promoting your business
• Stay informed with project updates and milestones

Silver Sponsor
• Invitation to participate in select team meetings
• AHC Social media post promoting your business
• Stay informed with project updates and milestones

Gold Sponsor
• Acknowledged in all presentations and papers
• Invitation to participate in select team meetings
• AHC Social media post promoting your business
• Stay informed with project updates and milestones

Fibre and Hurd 2024

May 23, 2024: Fiber comes on strong as Australian hemp fields double, stemming 3-year slide

April 3, 2024: Hemp will play role in UK housing development that aims for ‘exponential sustainability’

March 22, 2024: Development of insulating hemp siding is goal of $1.5 million research project

March 6, 2024: There is a modern path for renewable, plant-based materials like hempcrete to follow

February 20, 2024: Pennsylvania builder gets $1.9 million from U.S. Army for key hempcrete research

January 24, 2024: UK grant supports research of hemp fibers for use in sustainable electronics

January 9, 2024: U.S. builders say new standards can help push hempcrete into mainstream

Selected articles from 2024

August 14, 2024: Australian Hemp Council seeks funding to meet compliance requirements for animal feed

July 29, 2024: Australian hemp trials will look at potential for 2 varieties as dryland winter crops

July 11, 2024: As Victorian lawmaker waxes poetic, Australian state’s hemp legislation gathers support

May 20, 2024: Hemp bill in Victoria would reduce ‘onerous, confusing’ barriers, farm group says

March 19, 2024: Major hemp initiative in Australia abandoned as government fails to provide funding

February 15, 2024: Struggling Australian hemp companies strike a $1.9 million deal on food maker

February 7, 2024: New task force established to advance industrial hemp in Australian state

As part of our service, we provide full support on low THC varietal selection and breeding targets. Our years of experience in hybrid breeding is the key factor that translates to our clients’ success. Our great understanding and expertise and experience in varietal selection and adaptability to different latitudes helps to reduce risk of crop failure and save huge upfront costs to growers.
We are proud to present our latest selection of elite industrial hemp varieties, the result of extensive RnD, breeding, and innovation. Our portfolio includes high-yielding grain, fibre, and dual-purpose hemp varieties, bred for superior performance, regulatory compliance, and adaptability across diverse climatic conditions including tropical, sub-tropical and temperate environments.

Key Highlights:

Grain Varieties: Bred for high grain yield, low THC compliance, and superior protein and oil content, suited for food, feed, and oilseed markets. (HGT1, Mara-6, Mara-4, HGT2h)
Fibre Varieties: Developed for high bast and hurd yield, with strong stalk integrity, excellent mechanical processing efficiency, and sustainability applications. (HGT1, Mara-6)
Dual-Purpose Varieties: Deliver both high biomass and seed yield, providing versatility for multiple industries, including food, fibre, and specialty markets. (HGT1, Mara-314, Mara-401)

Upcoming Varieties: Next-generation genetics are set to enhance yield, processing efficiency, and climate resilience. New additions include:

HGT2hs: High-yielding grain variety with improved uniformity.
HGT105/03: Optimised for grain and fibre markets with increased vigour.
HGT98/00: Selected for improved drought tolerance and adaptability.
HGT33/00: High biomass fibre variety with excellent bast-to-hurd ratio.
And many more

Why Choose these Varieties?

Proven Performance: Field-tested for yield stability across multiple regions.
GxMxE Breeding Approach: Genetics, Management, and Environment integration for maximum crop and cost efficiency.
Tailored Solutions: Agronomic support and varieties suited for different planting systems.
Industry Leadership: More than a decade of experience in hemp genetics and agronomic optimisation.

Grow with Us
For full access to the 2025 Hemp Seed Catalogue, visit: Access the Catalogue
For expert guidance on high-yielding hemp genetics and agronomic strategies, contact us: info@HempGenTech.com

Date	State	Location	Time	Registration Link
Thursday 9 Feb	VIC	Hamilton SmartFarm 915 Mt Napier Rd, Hamilton	10:00am – 12:00pm	Click here to register for Victoria
Tuesday 14 Feb	NSW	The University of Sydney 12656 Newell Highway, Narrabri, NSW	9:00am – 10:30am	Click here to register for Narrabri
Thursday 23 Feb	SA	555 Mail Bridge Rd, Reedy Creek, VIC	10:00am – 12:00pm	Click here to register for Reedy Creek
Friday 24 Feb	TAS	Fairfield, Epping Forest, Northern Midlands, TAS	1.30pm – 3.30pm.	Click here to register for Tasmania
Wednesday 1 Mar	QLD	Mt Malakoff 1459 Springdale Rd Nundubbermere, QLD	11:00am – 12:30pm	Click here to register for Stanthorpe
Tuesday 20 Jun	NT	Katherine	TBA	TBA
Thursday 22 Jun	WA	Kununurra	TBA	TBA

Fibre and Hurd 2020

October 5, 2020: Turkish developers say their technology can strip fiber without retting

May 14, 2020: China agrees to buy U.S. hemp fiber; Can anyone supply it?

Fibre and Hurd 2021

December 31, 2021: Interest in building materials rising fast

December 30, 2021: Hemp fiber valued for its sustainability

December 23, 2021: Model home is blueprint for sustainable, affordable housing in India

December 21, 2021: Funding will let New Zealand fiber venture ‘go farther, faster’

December 14, 2021: Hemp surging as an environmental alternative to other fibers’

December 10, 2021: European fiber, seed show promise; key derivatives seen bottoming out

November 12, 2021: New harvester yields hemp fiber suitable for flax processing lines

October 22, 2021: Pennsylvania opens 2022 licensing amid signals of shift to fiber

October 8, 2021: Missouri grants back fiber processing

September 15, 2021: Hemp takes a foothold in grain, fiber in South Dakota’s first year

July 30, 2021: Hemp included in New York program backing fiber production

June 30, 2021: First fiber processing facility goes online in Western Australia

July 13, 2021: California group in grain, fiber trials; factory, biochar research planned

June 1, 2021: Canadian maker of mobile decorticator signs on customers in NZ, SA

April 16, 2021: Australian project will set technical plan for fiber production

March 19, 2021: Australian fiber processing startup completes fundraising

June 30, 2021: First fiber processing facility goes online in Western Australia

June 30, 2021: South Dakota farmers eschew CBD in favor of fiber and grain

June 28, 2021: 40,000 acres of fiber hemp fuels China’s ‘one county, one industry’ strategy

May 26, 2021: Canadian company raises $7 million, will develop fiber factory in Europe

April 23, 2021: Pakistani denim maker looks to Texas for cottonized fiber

April 21, 2021: U.S. fiber processor says it has raised $2.8 million

April 19, 2021: Italian ‘eco-leather’ is new use for dust from hemp fiber

April 16, 2021: Australian project will set technical plan for fiber production

March 5, 2021: Italian researcher says stalks from polluted soil OK for building, energy

February 15, 2021: Australian firm says it will bring HempBLOCK system to USA

January 13, 2020: Malaysian association sees fiber as first opportunity for hemp

January 28, 2021: U.S. firm plans March startup of fiber processing factory

January 25, 2021: Demand for sustainable textiles is big opportunity for hemp fiber

January 21, 2021: Italy’s Umbria region has ambitious hemp plan based on fiber

Fibre and Hurd 2022

Hemp Buildings: 50 International Case Studies – Steve Allin

December 27, 2022: Major projects reflect growing popularity of hemp building around the world

December 19, 2022: Factory for nonwovens opens

December 12, 2022: As war destroys homes, Ukrainian hemp builder keeps on building

October 31, 2022: UK builder says homeowners have moved into 25 new hemp houses

October 3, 2022: Large quantities, fast methods needed for hempcrete to meet promise in housing

September 13, 2022: Pre-fab hempcrete construction materials offer alternative to traditional builds

August 29, 2022: Hempcrete seen as part of eco-friendly solution to Zimbabwe’s housing shortage

July 29, 2022: Ahead for the industry: Fiber and food, sure, but hemp will be relegated to a ‘specialty crop’

July 14, 2022: South African project demonstrates hemp’s potential to upgrade existing buildings

July 1, 2022: Tests at Kansas university show hempcrete’s potential in net-zero buildings

Jun 20, 2022: Tennessee hemp stakeholders hope research will spur investment in fiber

March 7, 2022: Modular system offers framed hempcrete panels for faster builds

February 22, 2022: Italian project aims to clean up polluted land, turn out fiber products

February 7, 2022: Explosive’ demand for hurd in Europe is bright signal for hemp building

January 28, 2022: Researchers say hemp-based rebar could replace steel in construction

January 5, 2022: Polish hemp varieties lead grain and fiber trials in North Dakota

Selected articles from 2023

December 13, 2023: Overcoming stigma is key to advancing hemp in Australian state, lawmaker says

November 13, 2023: Research project seeks hemp varieties that will perform best in Australia

October 27, 2023: Study shows hemp plants enhance wine quality and soil in New Zealand vineyards

June 8, 2023: Stakeholders in Australian state say hemp can help fill gap after logging is banned

February 1, 2023: French and Polish hemp varieties stand out in Australian trials

Lauchlan is president and co-founder of the Queensland Hemp Association.
Since 2013, he has been contributing to Australia’s industrial hemp industry from seed to shelf, with improved crop success nationally.

He is focussed on developing successful hemp cultivars as the foundation for a successful hemp industry

Contact Lauchlan Grout

Environment

Hemp has modest water requirements when growing, producing a fibre which is strong and long lasting as well as mould and bacteria resistant.

Hemp is said to sequester four times as much carbon as a standard pine forest and grows much quicker. Carbon is above all the most important and effective factor on plant growth and life and hemp rapidly stores carbon into the soil increasing the soil productivity.

Hemp is also a bioaccumulator and can be used for phytoremediation by extracting heavy metals and other toxins from contaminated soils.

Trials conducted in Germany and Italy show that hemp biomass grown on contaminated soils can be safely used in construction materials.

Hemp has over 25,000 uses and hemp plastics are becoming a popular alternative to our global issue of plastic pollution.

Health

Hemp is arguably one of the most important superfoods in the world, with hemp seeds providing us with an invaluable source of protein, essential fatty acids and Omega 3 & 6 plus much more. Hemp has long been used as a food source and it is vital we reintroduce this back into our diets.

Hemp is able to replace the modern diet’s inflammatory fatty acids with the prefect balance of essential fatty acids bringing our system into balance.

Research has shown that to improve cardiovascular health we need to lower blood pressure, raise HDL cholesterol and reduce triglyceride levels.

Hemp seed and hemp oil in our food can contribute directly to these health gains.

Download “Hempseed as a nutritional resource“ – a 2004 study into the benefits of hemp seed.

Click here to apply

ACT

Legislation: Hemp Fibre Industry Facilitation Act 2004

Regulatory Body: Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate

THC at planting <0.5%
THC at harvest <1%

Licence types
1. Category 1 researcher licences
2. Category 2 researcher licences
3. Grower licences

Licence term: 3 years

Victoria

Legislation:
Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981
Agriculture Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 (effective as from 5 April 2023. See Part 5—Amendment of Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981*)

Regulations: Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances (Industrial Hemp) Regulations 2018

Regulatory Body: Agriculture Victoria

THC at planting <0.35% – increased to <1% as from 5 April 2023*
THC at harvest <1%

Licence types
1. Possess, process, sell or supply
2. Cultivate and possess

Licence term: 3 years

Costs:
Annual costs $500 to $1,500

Tasmania

Legislation: Industrial Hemp Act 2015

Regulations: Industrial Hemp Regulations 2016

Regulatory Body: Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (DPIPWE)

THC at planting <0.5%
THC at harvest <1%

Licence types
1. Supply and store
2. Cultivate
3. Clean and treat
4. Research
5. All the above

Licence term: 5 years

Costs:
No licence fees

Note: The Tasmanian Industrial Hemp Act 2015 is currently under review. Click here for full details.

Submission by the Tasmanian Hemp Association

Queensland

Legislation: Drugs Misuse Act 1986

Regulations: Drugs Misuse Regulation 1987

Regulatory Body: Business Queensland

THC at planting <0.5%
THC at harvest <1%

Licence types
1. Grower
2. Researcher
3. Seed handler
Licence term: 3 years

Costs:
Application fee: $506.75
Renewal fee: $202.80

Updated 5-6-2023

Northern Territory

Legislation: Hemp Industry Act 2019

Regulations: Hemp Industry Regulations 2020

Regulatory Body: NT Government

THC at planting <0.5%
THC at harvest <1%

Licence types
Possess, cultivate, process or supply
Cultivars to be grown must be from the approved list
Licence term: 5 years

Costs:
Application fee: $1,250

Western Australia

Legislation: Industrial Hemp Act 2004

Regulations: Industrial Hemp Regulations 2004

Regulatory Body: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (PIRD)

THC at planting <0.5%
THC at harvest <1%
Licence types
1. Cultivate
2. Harvest
3. Process

Licence term: 3 years

Costs:
Application fee: $368
Renewal fee: $136
Site Test and audit fees: $650
Additional testing fees: $168

Contact David Brian

South Australia

Governing Legislation: Industrial Hemp Act 2017

Regulations: Industrial Hemp Act Regulations 2017

Government Department responsible: Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA)

THC at planting: <0.5%
THC at harvest: <1%

Licence types:
1. Possession
2. Cultivation
3. Processing
Term of licence: 5 years

Costs:
Application fee: $1,181
Police check cost: $218 per person

Useful Links:
FAQs
Guidelines

New South Wales

Governing Legislation: Hemp Industry Act 2008

Regulations: Hemp Industry Regulation 2016

Government Department responsible:
Department of Primary Industries (DPI)

THC at planting: <0.5%
THC at harvest: <1%

Licence types:
1.Cultivation and Supply of commercial production
2.Cultivate and supply manufacturing process
3. Scientific and research

Costs:
Application fee: $572
Annual licence fee $200

Useful Links:
Guidelines
Application Form
Licence Manual

Fibre and Hurd 2023

Hemp Buildings: 50 International Case Studies – Steve Allin

December 27, 2023: Year in Review: Stakeholders worldwide work on fundamentals to advance hemp building

December 15, 2023: Texas fiber processor again pushes back startup date for decortication factory

December 5, 2023: To expand hemp construction, combine latest materials and quick-build systems

November 21, 2023: Region in Italy gets funding to support hemp fiber supply chain

November 8, 2023: Texas fiber startup gets more money from city, extension on hiring plan

October 24, 2023: Will widely hyped Texas hemp fiber processor finally get its factory going?

September 12, 2023: Symposium will hear about pre-fab building components, visit large-scale hempcrete project?

August 21 2023: 11th hemp building symposium will look at carbon, science, technology

July 13, 2023: Hemp on par with wood in ability to capture and store greenhouse gas

June 27, 2023: Hemp can be substitute for polyethylene in packaging, Canadian study shows

June 23 2023: Hemp shows promise in cleanup of toxic chemicals used in many products

April 18, 2023: Canadian team’s hempcrete building is ‘carbon-minimal, beautiful’

March 22, 2023: Zimbabwe’s hemp fortunes hinge on diversification into fiber, foods

February 27, 2023: Hempcrete takes ‘important step’ in U.S. by entering international code

February 17, 2023: $7.4 million grant backs Canadian hemp composite maker

February 9, 2023: 20 hemp fiber processors now online in U.S., analyst says

January 19, 2023: Swedish developer plans largest building in world using hemp insulation

January 17, 2023: Scottish bank raises investment in hemp insulation maker to £5 million

Selected articles from 2022

July 19, 2022: Creditors to meet next week over fate of troubled Australian company

May 20, 2022: Certifying of carbon credits can advance hemp among Australian farmers

March 28, 2022: Australian state to review hemp act as stakeholders say rules are too strict

Selected articles from 2020

December 22, 2020: Australia loosens CBD rules, but stakeholders say it’s not enough

December 15, 2020: New Zealand textile maker nears startup of hemp production line

November 4, 2020: Government continues its support for hemp in South Australia

October 22, 2020: Australian state of Victoria sets hemp trials at ‘smart farm’

October 15, 2020: Hay farmer receives first hemp license in Australia’s Northern Territory

September 15, 2020: Proper framework could boost New Zealand hemp, report says

September 14, 2020: Plan for over-the-counter CBD in Australia carries heavy restrictions

August 5, 2020: Australian researchers studying hemp nutrition for animal feed

May 3, 2020: Changes in Australia could make CBD available over-the-counter

January 31, 2020: Australian conference will look at hemp’s potential in wake of fires

Selected articles from 2021

October 5, 2021: NZ company to make CBD

October 1 2021: Australian stakeholders say black market for CBD is thriving

August 5 2021: Australian study shows hemp’s promise as feed for sheep

August 3 2021: Australian research team aims to develop new hemp varieties

June 24, 2021: Australian group buys 1,047-ha farm, says it fits hemp strategy

June 15, 2021: BOHECO to supply Australia’s SSA

March 16, 2021: Australian project seeks consultants

February 5, 2021: Australian group sets strategic plan

January 27, 2021: New Zealand initiative to study potential of hempseed hulls

Midlands Seed is one of Australia’s top agricultural producers of specialty seeds and food ingredients. With world-leading quality as our benchmark, our climate, soil types, grower expertise and the local agricultural infrastructure, allow us to produce superior products.

Midlands provides bulk supply of premium Hemp seed for sowing (Grain and Fibre varieties), and is the only company currently producing Certified Hemp seed for sowing in both Australia and New Zealand. Midlands have been evaluating cultivars for local conditions since 2001, and a selection of varieties that have been proven in Australian and New Zealand growing conditions are available. Typical sowing rates are in the range of 35kg to 60kg per hectare, and the MOQ for all varieties is 350kg.

Contact Steve Williams
Ph: +64 27 553 0846
E: office@midlands-seed.com.au

Our Top 5 Cultivars have been developed without genetic modification to grow and thrive in most regions of Australia.

Currently available:

ECO-MS77 is a robust dual-purpose diecious variety of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) bred for a longer internode length than ‘ECO-CHG’, high vegetative force, great capability of adaptation, greater TSW (30 – 32g) and very low cannabinoid (THC and other cannabinoids) content. This variety bred in Australia using a recurrent selection method and is suited to a wide range of latitude (5 – 53) for fiber production.

ECO-Excalibur is a diecious and relatively early maturity industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) variety suited for grain production in mid – high latitudes. This high-yielding variety matures in 100 to 115 days. This variety was bred using population breeding-recurrent selection method to pyramid higher grain yield and shorter maturity window. This is a female predominant variety with an occasional occurrence of monoecious plants.

ECO-CHY is a grain variety of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) bred in Australia for higher seed yield and low THC content that is suited for production in sub-tropical environments. This variety has desired traits for commercial grain yield in sub-tropical environments. It’s unique canopy structure allows commercial farming of this variety at lower planting density and is suitable for row cropping.

Currently unavailable:
ECO-CHG, a late dioecious fibre variety suited for fiber production.
ECO-CHA, a dual-purpose variety.

For further information visit our website or contact Adam Cantwell: adam@ecofibre.com

Hemp Farms Australia is an industrial hemp farming business. With our base of operations in Queensland, HFA focuses on mainland Australia, providing high quality reliable and registered industrial cannabis seed suited for grain or fibre production.

Click here to download their latest catalogue

For further information please contact us: info@hfahemp.com.au

LEAWOOD HEMP RELEASES SEED SUPPLY FOR START UP GROWERS

CULTIVATION PLANTING SEED AVAILABLE NOW FOR THIS SEASON

AVAILABLE PLANTING SEED:
· ANKA
· CRS-1
· CFX
· FROG
· FERIMON
· FEDORA 17
· FIBROR 79
· USO 31
· FUTURA-75
· INDIAN

Seed Pricing starts from $9.90 per Kg.

Please Call 1800 555 705 or Email: info@leawoodhemp.com.au
for orders & enquiries.

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE

Available now: 1.3 tonne of both Fibror 79 and Orion 33
Special price $4.00 plus transport.
The seed was imported in 2021 and has been stored well. Germination tests rate above 65%. Seed is also clean of treatments and so can be used for animal meal and human consumption.

For further information and to secure your order:
https://hempgro.com.au/products

Crop Permit AIHA PER85055 Fbr only

Crop permit AIHA PER85061

Crop permit EcoFibre PER86924

Crop permit Midlands PER87802

Have you completed your profile, preferably with your photo?

While it may be familiar to you, other members will surely want to know more about your background and experience.

Forum Use Policy

This Forum has been created to facilitate the sharing of information concerning Hemp Agronomy.
It is available to invited members only and all information shared belongs to the members of the forum.
The information shared is deemed to be for the benefit of developing the national Hemp Industry in Australia.
Any conflicts of interest or concerns for privacy should be identified to ensure that participants can interact freely.

First Steps

Complete your profile by going to My Profile> Account. There you can update your personal information, add a photo under Avatar – Upload an avatar, write something about yourself and add links to other sources of information.

Once you’re done, go ahead and submit your topics or contribute to existing topics.

Any feedback or suggestions regarding the Forum structure or process most welcome.

If you have any difficulties or further questions please email me: bernard.thomson@australianhempcouncil.org.au.

Contact Andrew Bourne

Contact iHempWA

Jaimie Milling is a fourth-generation farmer who has been in the agriculture industry all his life.
He has a Farm Business Management Degree and for 35-years he has owned and managed large broad acre mixed farm operations across NSW. Jaimie also has extensive experience in the agriculture industry both domestically and internationally, having worked in Africa, UK and Europe, as well as in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

He is the co-founder of Canna Hemp Care Pty Ltd, one of the larger hemp growers in NSW, with commercial crops of 20-to-200 hectares. They have strong existing relationships with hemp food and fibre processors and markets both nationally and overseas, and heavily involved in hemp fibre crop growing, marketing and processing.

Contact Jaimie Milling

Tony Burfield has a BSc. in Biology (hons) from Flinder university, a Certificate IV in Horticulture as well as various certificates in community work and training.

He has 24 years experience designing, managing and delivering Hort industry extension and development grants ranging from ($5,000 to $250,000). The primary focus has been on farm trials and extension for sustainable farming systems (IPM, soil health) for soil based protected cropping on the Adelaide Plains.

He also has 15 years experience designing, managing and delivering vocational training short courses, career planning and jobsearch.

Contact Tony Burfield