The Federal Government has opened applications for the third round of the $74 million Support Plantation Establishment program. Farm foresters, First Nations businesses and the forestry industry are among those who will benefit from funding to support more plantation forests in Australia. Source: Timberbiz
The Support Plantation Establishment program is providing grant funding to help establish up to 36,000 hectares of new long-rotation softwood and hardwood plantation forests across Australia.
The Government will provide up to $2,000 per hectare of new long-rotation plantation forest established.
To date rounds one and two of the program have awarded more than $15 million to 27 projects across Australia that will establish over 8,200 hectares of new plantations.
Round three is open for applications from 11 October 2024 to 5 November 2025.
Changes to the program have been made for round 3 following widespread stakeholder consultation.
Grants will range from one to three years, and projects must be concluded no later than 30 June 2027. Further information about the program’s requirements can be found in the Grant Opportunity Guidelines.
“This program underscores the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to supporting the forestry industry and regional communities, while reducing our carbon footprint,” Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins, said.
“By stimulating new growth in Australia’s plantation forest estate, we are helping meet our future demand for timber, creating regional employment opportunities, and building a sustainable and prosperous future while helping to meet our international emissions reduction commitments.
“That’s why this grant opportunity continues to play an important role to increase Australia’s future timber supply and reduce our dependence on imported timber. Australia doesn’t have enough timber,” she said.
“The Albanese Labor Government supports sustainable forestry, and is investing in forest industry innovation, manufacturing and skills.
“We are delivering the most significant forest industry support package in Australia’s history, including more than $300 million to help improve the capacity and capability of the sector.”
Diana Hallam, AFPA CEO, said the grants were essential for strengthening Australia’s sovereign capability in timber and wood fibre products.
“The new plantations established through this scheme will not only support our climate change efforts and contribute to national emissions reduction targets but also provide critical job opportunities in key regional areas across the country,” she said.
“Under the program, a grant of $2,000 per hectare is available to landholders to plant a timber crop on their property.
“In response to feedback from AFPA and forest growers, the Albanese Government has made some changes so the program is more accessible for landowners. These changes are welcomed by the industry.
“AFPA strongly endorses the Government’s strategic investment in timber plantations as a critical step towards achieving Australia’s climate targets and ensuring a robust, sustainable supply of timber and wood fibre for the nation’s future.”
For more information or to apply, visit https://www.grants.gov.au/
