The Federal Government has recommitted its support for the sustainable management of the native timber industry. Speaking at Forestry Australia’s National Symposium in Albury yesterday Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Senator Murray Watt also acknowledged the economic importance of keeping people employed in the industry in country towns. Source: Timberbiz
“Australia’s sustainable forest management credentials are first class,” he said.
Senator Watt said the one of the government’s commitments in the lead up to the election was to the continued sustainable management of the native timber industry.
“And that’s because our forestry industries are important employers in many rural and regional areas, not to mention producing important timber and other supplies for the country’s economy,” he said.
“Keeping these jobs in our regions means that families stay in regions, and that supports the shops, the schools and the sporting clubs right across our country.”
Senator Watt said the government was proud to support Australian forestry.
“Your industry supports more than 64,000 jobs across the country and is on track to deliver $2.3 billion in gross value of production,” he said.
“That’s an incredible result, considering the challenges that your industry has faced in recent years, including bushfires, trade interruptions, the global pandemic, and the impacts of climate change.”
Senator Watt said that since becoming minister he’d had the opportunity to meet with a number of forestry stakeholders and to discuss where they saw the future of the industry.
“And I really appreciate that feedback. I met with members of the forestry industry at a roundtable hosted by Australian Forest Products Association early on after being sworn in,” he said.
“I’ve also had the opportunity to visit a great Victorian forestry business in Australia and sustainable hardwoods in Gippsland. And I’ve also met with employers, industry groups and unions to discuss the workforce needs of your sector.
“What has really impressed me is the amazing research and innovation that’s being driven by researchers and industry professionals,” Senator Watt said.
“The Albanese government is deeply committed to your industry. I’m really excited about the future of the forestry and timber industries in Australia.
“And not just because of what you produce and the employment that you also generate, but also the incredibly important role that your industry is going to play in our move to a net zero economy.”
