Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam (left) wants stakeholders to have their say on a consultation paper on options for future innovation
A new $1.3 million feasibility study including targeted stakeholder consultation is looking at how best to improve research and development in the forestry sector, including the option of a National Institute for Forest Products Innovation. Source: Timberbiz
Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam said the Australian Government was focussed on building specialised forestry and forest products research and development capability.
“We’re committed to using forest industry resources in smarter ways to boost innovation and competitiveness,” Senator Duniam said.
“That’s why, in partnership with Iceni, we’re undertaking a feasibility study on how to improve forestry research and development,” he said.
This includes the possibility of an Australia wide NIFPI. The Iceni Group is a management consultancy based in Sydney, providing consultancy and advisory services to Government.
“An important first step is targeted engagement with select stakeholders across the country, including industry representatives, research providers and the three existing regional NIFPI centres,” Senator Duniam said.
“I also encourage stakeholders to have their say on a consultation paper on options for future innovation and how to shape Australia’s long term forestry research and development capacity.
“I would of course like to acknowledge the work of the Australian Forest Products Association and University of Tasmania for their work in this area. The model they have proposed will inform the government’s considerations and will be investigated as part of this process,” he said.
“This is another great example of preparing for the future, as we continue to deliver on the National Forest Industries Plan in partnership with industry and the states and territories.”
The consultation paper can be accessed at www.iceni.com.au/nifpi-consultation-paper/
