Why Western Australia Must Lead on Industrial Hemp

The story of industrial hemp regulation in Western Australia is about more than legislation: it’s about opportunity, safety, and the future of an emerging industry that could benefit our farmers, our economy, and our communities.

The missed connection

Recently in the Legislative Council, I pressed the government on their engagement with other states about their approaches to hemp policies. We are not just discussing abstract legal frameworks here. There is momentum building elsewhere — notably in Victoria — where they are taking bold steps to legally review and recalibrate their hemp laws with public consultation at the core.

Why then is Western Australia trailing behind? The government’s reply acknowledged membership in the Australian industrial hemp regulators network, which facilitates dialogue about harmonising regulation and sharing insights. Despite this platform, the prospect of a review of our Industrial Hemp Act remains vague, tentatively shelved 'in the context of other government legislative priorities'. That response smacks of delay when decisive action is what’s needed.

The risk of inaction

This is not just bureaucracy dragging its feet. Industrial hemp holds the potential to diversify agricultural production and open new markets. But without clear, modernised regulations shaped by robust consultation, producers remain in limbo. Family farms face uncertainty, investments stall, and innovation is stifled.

Worse still, disjointed regulation across states risks creating confusing compliance regimes that burden farmers and businesses. It’s a classic case of regulatory inertia translating into tangible economic and social costs for ordinary Western Australians.

Listening to Western Australians

In my years as a GP, one thing has been crystal clear: patients need to be heard for healing to begin. The same principle applies here. Western Australians deserve a seat at the table, to share their hopes and concerns about industrial hemp. Public consultation isn’t a bureaucratic hurdle — it’s the foundation of good policy, ensuring laws reflect the community’s priorities and values.

While some governments bicker or procrastinate, we forward-thinkers recognise the science and evidence calling for sensible, risk-based regulation that supports safety and growth. This is about setting a precedent: to demonstrate that WA can lead, innovate, and legally embrace a sustainable industry without compromising public health or integrity.

If you want to understand more about my vision for pragmatic, science-driven policy in Western Australia, you might like to subscribe to my YouTube channel. I break down complex issues into straightforward, clear discussions that matter to you and your family.

The time to act is now. We cannot allow hesitation to cost our farmers opportunities, our communities growth, or our state a place at the forefront of this evolving industry.

To read the full exchange and understand the nuances of this conversation, I invite you to explore the official Legislative Council Hansard record. And if you share a vision for sensible reform, consider joining Legalise Cannabis WA to support evidence-based progress for Western Australia.