Industrial Hemp Funding Boost for Gippsland
Committee for Gippsland has been working closely with iHemp Victoria since 2024 through a three-year pilot program at Lardner Park, aimed at positioning industrial hemp as a new economic driver for the region. We are pleased to share that iHemp Victoria has now secured seed funding through AgriFutures Australia’s People & Capability Program.
AgriFutures Australia, a federal Research and Development Corporation, supports innovation that delivers real returns for Australian farmers and helps future-proof the sector. The People & Capability Program funds practical, industry-led initiatives that address workforce challenges in emerging industries.
Committee for Gippsland Chair, Sean Dignum, welcomed the announcement and congratulated iHemp Victoria on securing the funding.
“This investment recognises the significant opportunity industrial hemp presents for Gippsland’s economy and agricultural sector,” Mr Dignum said.
“Through our partnership with iHemp Victoria, we are helping build the foundations of a new industry that has the potential to create jobs, support innovation and strengthen Gippsland’s position in sustainable agriculture,” he said.
AgriFutures Australia acknowledged iHemp Victoria’s strong understanding of industry challenges, along with its focus on delivering practical outcomes such as workforce pathway mapping, industry capability development and training resources. The funding will also strengthen governance within the organisation, supporting better coordination, leadership and long-term sustainability.
iHemp Victoria President Darren Christie said the funding would help accelerate industry education and build awareness among farmers about the opportunities industrial hemp can offer.
“The industrial hemp pilot at Lardner Park has delivered very encouraging results, and it’s clear Gippsland has the right climate, capability and conditions to support a thriving hemp industry,” Mr Christie said.
“This funding will allow us to develop practical education programs and resources that help farmers better understand the opportunities industrial hemp presents and how they can become part of the emerging supply chain.
“There is growing interest in sustainable fibre, manufacturing and low-emissions products, and industrial hemp has the potential to play an important role in that future. The next step will be ensuring we have the right local processing capability to support industry growth and capture more value within the region,” he said.
Committee for Gippsland CEO Tony Cantwell said C4G would continue working with industry and regional partners to help unlock opportunities for the sector.
“We’re encouraged by the progress being made and the strong level of interest this pilot has generated across Gippsland,” Mr Cantwell said.
“Industrial hemp aligns strongly with Gippsland’s strengths in agriculture, innovation and advanced manufacturing, and we will continue leveraging our partnerships to support the sector’s development and build momentum for future investment,” he said.
If you’d like to know more about industrial hemp in Gippsland or explore opportunities to get involved, contact Committee for Gippsland at info@gipps.com.au or iHemp Victoria at president@ihempvictoria.org.au.