Northern industrial hemp value chain study

Industrial hemp is coming back into fashion.

This versatile crop can be used for cattle feed, clothing fibre, building blocks and for health purposes.

The Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade is working on field trials to test which varieties grow best around Darwin and Katherine. There is a corresponding need to investigate industrial hemp uses and where the markets are for future products.

The Plant Industry Branch’s Senior Extension Officer, Alex Peachey, is leading a value chain study for industrial hemp in the north. The department is working with the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to analyse current hemp products and potential markets.

“Industrial hemp is being grown in Western Australia and then converted into hempcrete building blocks for houses,” Alex said.

“Not only do these blocks absorb carbon dioxide, but they can be used as a substitute for concrete blocks. They have high thermal insulation and can be made to be fireproof, prevent mould and have breathable walls. The study is looking into Northern Territory industrial hemp production for hempcrete, among other potential products, so we can make our own building materials for Indigenous communities.”

Other possibilities include using hemp as a rotation crop with cotton, and for cattle feed, bio-plastics and oils.

“We are also working closely with the agricultural research station in Kununurra to see what industrial hemp varieties grow there and what grows well here in the Top End and Katherine,” Alex said.

“Then we can ask what value chains can link the Northern Territory with the north of Western Australia to produce products for export or transport to the rest of the country.”

The study, funded by AgriFutures Australia, will be finished early next year.

More information

For more information on the trial, contact Senior Extension Officer, Alex Peachey by email alex.peachey@nt.gov.au or phone 08 8999 2222.