Lauchlan Grout

Lauchlan Grout is a recognised leader in Australia’s industrial hemp industry, driving innovation at the intersection of agriculture, biotechnology, and sustainability. As a Director and co-founder of Hemp Farms Australia, Lauchlan has spent over a decade pioneering hemp varietal development, commercial farming systems, and market access across Australia and internationally. His work has positioned Hemp Farms Australia as a trusted genetics supplier and industry collaborator, with varieties now trialled and adopted across multiple continents. In addition to his commercial role, Lauchlan serves on the board of the Australian Hemp Council, where he advocates nationally for policy development, industry standards, and pathways to scale hemp as a cornerstone crop within regenerative farming systems. His leadership has been central to advancing hemp’s role in carbon sequestration, soil remediation, sustainable building materials, and emerging bio-based industries. At AgXchange, Lauchlan brings a perspective grounded in both research and practical deployment. He works closely with growers, processors, and innovators to accelerate the adoption of hemp as a profitable, future-facing crop that enhances resilience within farming landscapes. His experience extends from hands-on cultivation to global market strategy, giving him a unique lens on how Australian producers can capture value in the rapidly expanding bioeconomy. Lauchlan is passionate about showcasing hemp as a tool for diversification, environmental repair, and long-term economic opportunity, ensuring Australian agriculture is positioned at the forefront of sustainability and innovation.