Gippsland takes new steps toward a sustainable fibre future with industrial hemp

11 Nov

Written By Food and Fibre Gippsland

Gippsland is exploring a bold new direction for its fibre industry — and industrial hemp is at the heart of it.

In late September, leaders from across government, industry, and community gathered in Tinamba for the inaugural Gippsland Industrial Hemp Roundtable. The event, hosted by the Future of Orbost & District (FoOD) project in partnership with Food and Fibre Gippsland, marked a significant milestone in the region’s journey toward post-timber transition and sustainable economic development.

The roundtable built on earlier work led by the former Latrobe Valley Authority and aimed to spark a shared understanding of the potential for industrial hemp in Gippsland. With the end of native timber harvesting in Victoria’s state forests, the region is actively seeking new opportunities — and hemp is emerging as a promising contender.

Why Hemp, Why Now?

Industrial hemp is gaining traction globally as a sustainable, versatile crop. From textiles and bioplastics to construction materials and carbon reduction, its applications are vast — and growing.

Guest speaker Matthew Lariba-Taing, Secretary of the Victorian Hemp Association and Acting President of the Australian Hemp Council, shared compelling insights: “The global industrial hemp industry is worth around $8 billion, and Australia’s share is about $20 million — but the growth potential is enormous. Gippsland’s climate and agricultural strengths make it an ideal location to lead the way.”

A Regional Vision for Growth

Local leaders are already thinking big. Garry Squires, Secretary of the Orbost & District Chamber of Commerce & Industry and a key member of the FoOD governance group, stressed the urgency: “With one fibre industry closing, the chance to build a new one becomes a priority. Orbost could become a viable hemp hub — but it must be part of a broader regional strategy.”

Simon Johnson, CEO of Food and Fibre Gippsland, echoed the sentiment: “Industrial hemp offers a unique opportunity to cut carbon, create jobs, and revive local manufacturing. But to unlock its full potential, we need collaboration, innovation, and a clear roadmap.”

Read full Media Release from the September Roundtable here.

Next Steps?

The roundtable was just the beginning. FoOD and Food and Fibre Gippsland are committed to continuing the conversation, engaging stakeholders, and shaping a strategic path forward for Gippsland’s hemp industry.

As the region transitions away from native timber, projects like FoOD are helping communities like Orbost build on their strengths and embrace new opportunities — economic, social, and environmental.

The next local Hemp Forum to be hosted by the FoOD and attended by Food and Fibre Gippsland is scheduled for 18-19 November and updates will be shared.

Find out more from the Media Release here.

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