Unlocking the future of Western Australian hemp through science and vision
Dr Brian Walker challenges the government on their lack of engagement with national hemp industry recommendations, questioning why Western Australia remains hesitant to embrace this vital economic and agricultural opportunity.
The missed opportunity on our doorstep
In my years as a GP, I learned that ignoring the signs of a treatable condition only leads to poorer outcomes later. As a member of the Legislative Council, I see the same pattern in how our government manages the industrial hemp sector. Recently, I raised questions in the House regarding the Senate inquiry into the development of the hemp industry in Australia. This report contains fourteen clear recommendations that could revolutionise our agricultural landscape, yet the response from the government suggests a reluctance to lead.
The risk here is not just an abstract policy failure. It is the real-world consequence of a state being left behind. While our farmers are eager for innovation and economic diversification, they are being met with bureaucratic inertia. This is a waiting room where progress dies. If we refuse to work with federal partners to implement these evidence-based strategies, we are effectively choosing stagnation over prosperity.
Connecting with the community
I find that many people are just as frustrated as I am by the slow pace of meaningful change. If you want to keep up to date with my work in the House and see the reality of our parliamentary sessions, I invite you to subscribe to my YouTube channel. It is where we break down the complex topics that the major parties often gloss over.
A commercial decision or a failure of vision
The government maintains that the decision to grow hemp is merely a commercial choice for farm businesses. They point to research trials as evidence of their support. While research is important, it is not a substitute for comprehensive policy action. When I asked whether the government would commit to implementing the recommendations from the federal inquiry, the answer was, in essence, a shrug of the shoulders. They treat a national opportunity as if it were a local hobby.
We deserve better. We deserve a government that sees the science, understands the market, and acts with conviction. To view the full exchange, you can read the official record of the proceedings. If you are ready to see real change in Western Australia, I encourage you to stand with us and join Legalise Cannabis WA today.
