Press Release – Tasmania: Hemp growers are warning the state’s seed-for-food industry could be lost unless urgent action is taken to retain access to an essential weed-control treatment.

Media Release

August 31st 2026

Hemp growers warn seed-for-food industry at risk

Tasmanian hemp growers are warning the state’s seed-for-food industry could be lost unless urgent action is taken to retain access to an essential weed-control treatment.

Tasmanian hemp farmer and former Tasmanian Hemp Association President Tim Schmidt said the industry permit allowing the herbicide, bromoxynil, to be used on hemp was due to expire on 30 June 2027.

“The herbicide, bromoxynil, has been used by Tasmanian hemp growers for 20 years and remains essential for controlling broadleaf weeds and producing a viable crop,” Mr Schmidt said.

“It is also widely used across major hemp-producing countries, including Canada.

“Unless the necessary local data trials are undertaken, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority permit will lapse. Without access to bromoxynil, growers will not plant hemp seed-for-food crops in Tasmania in 2027.”

Mr Schmidt said the Tasmanian Hemp Association had been informed of the issue but its decision not to support the Australian Hemp Council had left Tasmania without adequate representation at the national level.

The Australian Hemp Council works with national regulators on issues including agricultural chemical permits and promotes the development of hemp food, fibre, fodder, extracts, carbon opportunities and industry research.

Mr Schmidt said, “Tasmania is the only state that does not support the council, despite the clear benefits its work can provide to our growers and the wider industry.

“The Tasmanian Hemp Association must urgently engage with the Australian Hemp Council to help resolve the bromoxynil permit issue before it is too late.”

Mr Schmidt said Tasmania produced some of the world’s highest-quality hemp seed and had developed a strong and growing seed-for-food industry.

“It is fantastic to see Tasmania’s emerging hemp fibre industry receiving attention and support, but the fundamental challenges facing existing seed growers cannot be overlooked,” he said.

“The Tasmanian Hemp Association needs to refocus its priorities on these immediate grower issues and help protect the agricultural foundation of Tasmania’s hemp industry,” Mr Schmidt said.

ENDS

Tim Schmidt Tasmanian hemp farmer Former President, Tasmanian Hemp Association

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