AFPA has welcomed the Federal Government’s Forestry Growth Fund announcement today, which will help to build a stronger, more sustainable and modern forestry industry for the future.
Under the program, grants and initiatives will be delivered across five key streams focused on modernising the sector, supporting secure and well-paid jobs, strengthening innovation, securing sustainable fibre supply and increasing Australia’s sovereign capability.
AFPA Acting CEO Richard Hyett said the $150 million in funding was a significant vote of confidence and step in the right direction for Australia’s forestry and forest products sector.
“Forestry is already a major contributor to regional communities and the national economy, and this much-needed investment provides us with a vital opportunity to build on that strong foundation,” Mr Hyett said.
“We sincerely thank the Government and Federal Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins for listening to industry, and applaud the fund’s strong focus on innovation, workforce development, fibre security and high-value manufacturing closely aligns with the funding priorities previously raised by industry.
“The $115 million for transformation and innovation grants will help industry adapt to the challenging and changing market. A further $15 million for the successful plantation establishment grants and $5 million to improve the integrity of the illegal logging laws will also boost the sector.
“It’s really positive to see this program – which aligns with the Timber Fibre Strategy – been informed by industry, unions, communities and state and territory governments.
“This consultation has been crucial because the people working across our industry understand where the opportunities are and what is urgently needed to help forestry grow and thrive.
“Australia’s sixth largest manufacturing industry has an important role to play in our future, and we want to make sure we have the certainty and investment needed to keep growing and supporting communities.”
