Natasa Sikman
Forest plantation establishment grants announced this week by the Federal Government will help Australia grow much needed timber and wood fibre supply for the nation’s future, according to Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association Natasa Sikman. Source: Timberbiz
Almost $74 million was committed to the Support Plantation Establishment Program through the 2022-23 Federal Budget with the grants process opening this month. Grants will be open to private operators and state and territory forestry enterprises with the target of establishing new plantations and farm forestry operations.
“It is great news that the federal bipartisan commitment to grow more timber production trees is starting to be rolled out,” Ms Sikman said.
“We welcome the Albanese Government carrying through on this program and thank Minister for Forestry Murray Watt for his ongoing commitment to ensure delivery. We will continue to work with the Government throughout the rollout.”
Ms Sikman said that Australia had a shortage of timber and wood fibre growing in the ground and needed one billion new production trees to ensure there is enough supply to meet needs as a nation in coming decades.
These plantation grants would help in boosting some of that future supply.
“These grants will not only help secure Australia’s sovereign capability in everyday timber and wood fibre products, but new trees planted under the scheme can help Australia fight climate change and contribute to our emission reduction targets,” Ms Sikman said.
“They will also underpin many jobs across forestry in key regional areas nationwide.”
Funding for the program will be available across multiple rounds from 2023-24 to 2026-27 with $2000 per hectare to be provided by the Government for every hectare of long rotation plantation established. Applicants will be required to co-contribute.
More information about the program can be found at the Community Grants Hub.
