INDUSTRIAL HEMP
901. Hon SOPHIA MOERMOND to the Minister for Agriculture and
Food:
Given the vast differences in
rainfall across our state has an in-depth analysis taken place to ascertain —
(1) What areas of
Western Australia are best suited to industrial hemp and cannabis crops?
(2) Which strains
of industrial hemp or cannabis would suit these varying environments?
(3) If no
analysis has taken place, will the minister commit to funding research in this
area to aid this growing sector?
Hon
ALANNAH MacTIERNAN replied:
I thank the member for the question.
I know that the member appreciates the government has been working hard in this
industry.
(1) Industrial hemp can be grown across Western Australia.
However, profitable production relies on consistently achieving good
economic commercial returns. It is important to find the most appropriate
variety and right agronomy for each soil and climate type.
(2) The
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, in conjunction with
AgriFutures, is currently funding the WA
component of the national industrial hemp variety trials from 2021 to 2024.
There are 20 varieties being tested in both Manjimup and Kununurra. Some
earlier trials in 2019–20 were also funded through the industrial hemp
grants scheme. I table a list of varieties currently being trialled.
(3) In addition
to financially supporting the trials mentioned above, research is currently
funded to assess the suitability and barriers for hemp to be used as a feed
source for livestock or to be grazed following harvest to increase whole crop
utilisation. We have also funded some processing projects as these are
essential to making industrial hemp growing commercially attractive.
The PRESIDENT:
I assume the minister is seeking leave to have the table incorporated in Hansard.
Hon ALANNAH
MacTIERNAN: I have been advised that I just table the document rather than
seek leave.
[See paper 1707.]�