26/09/2026
Growing Together: AIHC 2026 in Geelong
This week the Australian industrial h**p sector gathered in Geelong for the fifth Australian Industrial H**p Conference. Under the theme “Growing Together”, growers, processors, manufacturers, researchers, businesses, policymakers and investors looked back on the industry’s progress since legalisation in 2017 and ahead to building stronger, connected value chains.
The program covered three streams. Materials and built environment showcased h**pcrete, composites and fibre processing. Agronomy and genetics covered new varieties, trials and cropping systems. Policy focused on the Federal Senate Inquiry into the industrial h**p industry, with Richard Colbeck presenting his findings alongside myself Maxine Shea of iH**p NSW and H**p Collective. I spoke for the NSW industry and h**p businesses, setting out practical priorities for turning the inquiry’s recommendations into real progress.
With international perspectives from Europe, Asia and the Americas, AIHC 2026 showed an industry that is maturing and aligned with national priorities in climate adaptation, regional development and the circular economy. It also showed that h**p’s future in Australia depends on working together.
AgriFutures Australia Australian H**p Council City of Greater Geelong Stretch Kontelj Southern Cross University Dr Omid Ansari Australian H**p Masonry X-H**p **p Margaret River H**p Processing Pro H**p Vircura **p Otetto Living Canvas **pbuildingdirectory Deakin University H**p Block International David Brian joost bakker H**pNSW **pnsw
