INDUSTRIAL HEMP
889. Hon SOPHIA MOERMOND to the minister representing the
Minister for Forestry:
Functioning sawmills in Manjimup
are soon to be retired in what seems to be a complete waste of resources.
(1) Has the
minister considered a plan for the repurposing of the sawmills, in particular
to be readapted for the processing of industrial hemp?
(2) If not, would
the minister consider working with industrial hemp and cannabis industry
representatives to explore this option?
Hon
ALANNAH MacTIERNAN replied:
I thank the member. The following
information has been provided by the Minister for Forestry.
(1)–(2) The
McGowan government is supporting workers, businesses and communities
transitioning out of the native timber industry with an $80 million just
transition plan. As part of this plan, the government has created a $30 million industry and community
development program that will assist in transitioning south west economies.
This funding includes a new $10 million industry development and attraction
program that will provide grants of up to $2 million, with matched funding, to
accelerate new or existing business development, attract new industries and
strengthen regional economies. People are encouraged to apply.