The History of Hemp in Australia

The History of Hemp in Australia:

Hempies is a proudly Australian owned and operated business - so we thought it was about time we took a cheeky look back at how hemp first landed on Aussie soil and the wild ride it’s been on ever since.

Australia’s farming story has always been about resilience, innovation, and adapting to change. Right at the heart of that story sits hemp - a plant that’s been part of our journey from the very beginning. Let’s take a stroll through time and explore the fascinating history of hemp in Australia.

Hemp Arrives with the First Fleet

Believe it or not, hemp has been in Australia since 1788, when the First Fleet arrived with hemp seeds on board. Back then, the British relied on hemp for all sorts of things - ropes, sails, and even clothing for sailors. It was one of the most valuable plants in the empire because of its strength, durability, and versatility.

Those early seeds planted the roots (literally) for what would become a quiet but important part of Australia’s modern agricultural history.

The Boom of the 19th Century

By the 1800s, hemp was thriving in regions like Victoria, New South Wales, and Tasmania. Aussie-grown hemp was known for its strong, high-quality fibres that held their own on the global stage. Farmers were growing it for everything from textiles to rope, and the Australian hemp industry started to make its mark.

Everyday Uses and a Staple Crop

Hemp wasn’t just for big industries - it was part of everyday life. Early settlers and Indigenous communities used hemp fibres for ropes, clothes, and tools. Farmers loved it because it could handle different climates and soil types, making it one of the most versatile crops in Australia.

The Decline: Misunderstanding the Plant

Fast forward to the early 1900s, and things took a turn. As global attitudes towards cannabis shifted, industrial hemp got lumped in with its psychoactive cousin. Regulations and misconceptions caused the industry to collapse. Despite being non-psychoactive and full of potential, hemp got stuck with a bad rep it didn’t deserve.

The Modern Comeback of Hemp in Australia

Skip ahead to the 21st century, and hemp’s having a well-deserved comeback. With changes to federal and state laws, low-THC hemp can now be legally grown across Australia. Farmers, innovators, and eco-friendly brands (like us!) are rediscovering what makes this plant so special.

From textiles and sustainable packaging to health foods and eco-construction, hemp is once again becoming a star player in Australia’s sustainable future.

Modern Uses of Hemp in Australia

Today, the hemp industry in Australia is buzzing with creativity. You’ll find hemp being used for:

• Textiles and clothing - soft, breathable, and sustainable (yes, we’re biased)

• Health foods - like hemp seeds, protein, and oil

• Eco-friendly construction - hempcrete and insulation

• Compostable packaging and bioplastics

It’s one of the few plants that can feed you, clothe you, and help build your house - all while being gentle on the planet.

The Future of Hemp in Australia

The future looks bright for Australian hemp. Ongoing research is unlocking better cultivation methods and new ways to use the plant - from carbon-neutral building materials to nutrient-packed superfoods. As the world leans into sustainability, hemp fits perfectly into Australia’s push for greener industries.

A Plant That’s Part of Our Heritage

Hemp’s story in Australia isn’t just about economics - it’s about heritage, resilience, and innovation. By reconnecting with this ancient crop, Aussies are rediscovering its cultural and environmental value.

As the green wave of sustainability continues to grow, hemp stands tall as a symbol of Australian ingenuity - a humble plant with the power to make a real difference.

In Summary

From its arrival with the First Fleet to its modern-day revival, hemp in Australia has proven itself time and time again. It’s tough, versatile, sustainable, and woven into our history - and our future.

At Hempies, we’re proud to be part of this story, helping bring hemp back into everyday Aussie life - one hat, hoodie, and pair of socks at a time.